Fire Prevention Tips

March is considered as fire prevention month here in our country. Hence, a Presidential Proclamation was made to provide education and awareness to lessen the incidence of fire in the Philippines.

March was chosen as the month for this as it marks the start of the hot, dry season during which most fires occur. Since the start of the month this year, there are already 42 recorded fire incidents in NCR alone.

Even though we are towards the end of the month, we should keep note of there fire safety facts and tips so our family will be prepared in the event of a fire emergency in our home.

• Practice good housekeeping techniques in the lab/office/work area. Regularly clean the house by removing the accumulation of dried leaves, wood shavings and litter in all parts of the house, these items can act as “fire fuel”.
• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. A working smoke alarm can double your chances of survival.
• Install fire sprinklers. When home fire sprinklers are used with working smoke alarms, your chances of surviving a fire are greatly increased.
• Since cooking equipment are the leading cause of fires, never leave heated cooking equipment unattended. Don't let kids use kitchen appliances by themselves and supervise any art or science projects that involve electrical devices.
• Never overload circuits or extension cords with plugs from the TV, computer, printer, video game system, and stereo. Do not place cords and wires under rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas. Immediately shut off and unplug appliances that sputter, spark or emit an unusual smell. Have them professionally repaired or replaced. Also, regularly check your home electrical installations by a licensed electrician.
• Use portable heaters, candles, lighters, matches, and smoking materials with caution away from upholstered furniture, mattresses, bedding, and anything else flammable. Do not put them where the wind, children, cats and other moving beings may topple them. Put them out before going to bed.
• Never leave a lit cigarette or cigar on pipe unattended.
• Have a family fire escape plan and practice it with all family members. If you are living in a condo or building, look for proper fire exits and proper exit signage (e.g. exit signs pointing to them that can function in a power failure).
• Always have a handy first aid kit.
• Be calm always. Keep in mind that in case of fire or any accident, you should not panic and instead just stay calm then call the fire department and ask help.

Fire can easily be prevented if we just follow these important fire prevention tips. Remember, prevention is better than cure. This can help lessen our worries and can make our family and our home safe and secured.