Recognizing fire hazard could save people a lot of trouble. “Heat, fuel and oxygen are the three elements that give life to fire. So putting things that could fuel fire next to heat could be dangerous,” Capesos said, adding that avoiding putting a lamp, for instance, next to curtains, is one.
By CHERYLL D. FIEL
Davao Today
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Davao City falls short in world standards in terms of fire protection — the city has only 13 fire trucks, not 64, as the standard required number in terms of the trucks’ ratio to population.
In the midst of inadequate fire facilities, the people “should be more aware on fire prevention,” claims Senior Fire Officer 3 Ariel Capesos of the Davao City Bureau of Fire Protection-XI Intelligence and Investigation Section.
Already, nine fire incidents that killed five people have been recorded in the first two weeks of this month — the fire prevention month. Four of the fire incidents were caused by electrical problems, while most were said to be caused by “negligence” like an unattended candle and a child left alone playing with matchsticks.
Capesos said most of the common electrical problems are caused by short circuit, overheated appliances, overloading and arching, which happens when electricity fluctuates and the outlet loosens, causing ignition at the sudden rush of power supply.
Electric connections in wooden ceiling panels are especially most susceptible to catch fires, especially during summer season as the heat doubles up. Capesos advised that electric wire connections must be checked by competent electricians at least once in every 10 years.
Another common cause of fire is shortage of electric load for multiple appliance connections, and substandard electrical equipment.
Capesos said some have the wrong practice of making do with available things, such as replacing broken fuse in circuit breakers with silvers in cigarette packs, as a temporary recourse.
Remove fire hazards
Recognizing fire hazard could save people a lot of trouble. “Heat, fuel and oxygen are the three elements that give life to fire. So putting things that could fuel fire next to heat could be dangerous,” Capesos said, adding that avoiding putting a lamp, for instance, next to curtains, is one.
“Even simple housekeeping is good fire prevention,” Capesos said, citing that cleaning up cooking oil spilled in the kitchen could keep fire accidents away.
In areas where houses are situated close to each other, especially, in urban poor communities, Capesos recommends the formation of fire brigades. If one notices fire hazard practice in the neighborhood, one can report that to the fire department and they can conduct inspections, he added.
It is also best that a family creates its own disaster plan, and even conduct fire drills among themselves. If purchasing a fire extinguisher is way too expensive, then at least, storing a pail of water in the house for fire emergency could make a lot of difference, Capesos said.
Know the number of your nearest fire station
Capesos said it is important that people know the telephone number of the fire stations near their vicinity, or if not, they can dial 911.
Capesos listed the 11 fire stations in the city: Bunawan Fire Station, 236-0414; Panacan, 284-3865; Lanang, 235-0166; Buhangin, 241-0220; Central Fire Station (Magsaysay Park), 222-2324; Bangoy (Ponciano), 221-0221; SIR, Bucana, 296-1779; GSIS, 297-2427; Mintal District, 293-0112; Toril, 291-0441 and Calinan, 295-0475.
Capesos explained that from the moment they receive a distress call, the Bureau of Fire always make it a point to be there in seven minutes or less. “So it’s crucial, that within that amount of time, people at least would know how to find a way to quell a fire at its initial stage,” he added.
In getting out of fire, Capesos said, it is best not to run, as you are just adding up oxygen to the fire. Best is to stop, drop and roll, because one could be in danger of inhaling the hot gases while standing. When a part of the body has caught fire, it is best to roll over to put off the fire.
Penalty for violators
Capesos also warns penalty for establishments who violate fire safety rules like blocking fire exits, doors that are not open to the direction of travel, and ladder-type passageways not stair-type which makes it inaccessible. Outright penalties run up to PHP 25,000.
Capesos reminds everyone to be extra careful as this month of March is the onset of hot season. Make sure all electrical cords are unplugged when leaving the house, and cooking is not left unattended.
“Your firemen can only do so much. Besides, what firemen can do amount to nothing, especially if the fire is already fully developed. Even the water from our fire hoses in such cases would just evaporate due to the intense heat,” he said. (Cheryll D. Fiel/davaotoday.com)
