Lagawe’s Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP-Lagawe) reported no cases of fire incidents for its quarter 1 monitoring report, January to May 2025, a significant drop compared to last year’s six cases during the same period.
According to the data from BFP-Lagawe, there was one unlisted forest fire incident this year, as it was reported a month later after it happened. In contrast, last year’s six cases include two forest fires, one grass fire, and three structural fires.
Education and Inspection Efforts
F/INS David D. Umhao, the Acting Municipal Fire Marshal, said that they are continuously conducting Information, Education, and Communication (IECs) campaigns about fire prevention in barangays, schools, and various government and private institutions.
They are invited to lead fire drills and lectures in schools and other offices for fire safety literacy.
In addition to IECs, the BFP-Lagawe is conducting regular inspections of business establishments to ensure compliance with fire prevention protocols.
Should there be any violations by the establishments, they are given a grace period to comply based on the gravity of their violation, after which, they are to request a re-inspection from the BFP.
BFP-Lagawe also engages with the youth by inviting the pre-school and elementary students to their station for fire safety practices.
“Just like what happened in March during the Fire Prevention Month, one of our programs is to invite some elementary and pre-school pupils to visit our station, showcasing our equipment and at the same time, to educate them. To teach them what to do during fire emergencies,” Umhao added.
Moreover, Umhao reiterates to the public that having no listed cases of fire incidents should not lead to complacency among the public.
Few Tips and Reminders
BFP- Lagawe continues to remind the public on fire prevention and safety.
“We are not tired [to] keep informing the public. Our goal is to limit or prevent the occurrence of fire,” emphasized Umhao.
A few of the prevention and safety tips, the BFP noted, include unplugging or disconnecting unused appliances, having a fire protection system, changing defective appliances, and keeping an eye on lit candles and on the kitchen when cooking.
BFP-Lagawe continues to urge the public to remain responsible and vigilant, as disasters can strike anytime and through this, fire incidents can be prevented from occurring.// Joe C. Bulo-an, BSU-DevCom Intern
