Fire prevention tips to protect your home

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Fires also result in massive financial damage. From 2010 to 2021, total fire damage reached a staggering P62.9 billion.

In the Philippines, March is recognized as Fire Prevention Month due to the alarming rise in fire incidents during this time of year. This is in accordance with Proclamation No. 115-A, which was signed by then-President Ferdinand E. Marcos.

For 2024, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) emphasizes collective responsibility in fire prevention with the slogan: “Sa pag-iwas sa sunog, hindi ka nag-iisa” (In fire prevention, you are not alone).

In 2023, 277 people died due to fire, while 1,121 were injured. The same data also showed that electrical ignition caused by loosed connection, overloading, pinched wire, and arcing are the top causes of fire. 

Additionally, over 1,000 fire incidents were caused by open flames from cooking, and some have been linked to cigarettes.

Beyond the loss of lives, fires also result in massive financial damage. In 2021 alone, fire-related damages amounted to P4.49 billion. From 2010 to 2021, total fire damage reached a staggering P62.9 billion.

General fire safety tips

To reduce the risk of fire, follow these general safety measures from the BFP:

1. Unplug or disconnect appliances when not in use.
2. Avoid octopus wiring.
3. Check electrical wiring regularly. 
4. Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
5. Do not leave open flames unattended. 
6. Have fire extinguisher and/or install fire protection systems.
7. Plan an escape route. 

Kitchen fire prevention

Since many fires start in the kitchen, the BFP advises:

1. Keep flammable and combustible materials in safe storage and away from the open flames of the kitchen.
2. Regularly maintain the cooking device or equipment in good condition and check if they are still functional or serviceable.
3. It is ideal to establish a kitchen that is separate or adjacent to the main house or structure. The place should be open and well-ventilated.
4. Install a smoke detector in the kitchen at least 5 to 10 feet from the burner. 
5. Children should not be left unattended as they play with fire in the kitchen.
6. Never leave the house if you are still cooking or going to sleep without double-checking the open flames or live embers in the kitchen.
7. Never pour water into the burning greases or oils of the frying pan.

Types of fire and fire extinguishers

Fires are classified into different types based on their fuel source. Knowing the type of fire is crucial in selecting the right fire extinguisher to effectively put it out.

Class A (Ordinary combustibles)

• Fuel source: Paper, wood, fabric, rubber, and plastics
• Extinguisher type: Red, blue, and green extinguisher

Class B (Flammable liquids and gases)

• Fuel source: Gasoline, oil, paint, and alcohol
• Extinguisher type: Red and blue extinguisher

Class C (Electrical fires)

• Fuel source: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and electrical appliances
• Extinguisher type: Green extinguisher

Class D (Metal fires)

• Fuel source: Combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, potassium, and sodium
• Extinguisher: Bucket of sand

Class K (Kitchen fires – Cooking oils and grease)

• Fuel source: Cooking oils, fats, and grease (common in restaurants and homes)
• Extinguisher: Wet chemical (extinguishing this type of fire requires specific training)

How to use a fire extinguisher

To use the fire extinguisher, people should remember the word “PASS.”

1. Pull the pin
2. Aim at the base of the fire
3. Squeeze the operating handle
4. Sweep from side to side

Emergency hotline

In case of fire, dial 911 for immediate assistance from the BFP.

For local fire station contacts, refer to the BFP’s provincial, district, or city offices:

– Rappler.com