BACOLOD City — The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) here reminded motorists to immediately give way to emergency vehicles following a brief delay encountered by a responding fire truck during a fire incident in Barangay Alijis on January 15.
Fire Engine 264 was momentarily delayed while en route to the scene after a motorcycle occupied the fast lane and failed to promptly yield despite the activation of the fire truck’s siren and warning lights.
In a press statement, Fire Inspector Jemarie G. Tapiru, deputy city fire marshal of the Bacolod City Fire Station, appealed to all road users to remain alert, avoid occupying the fast lane when not overtaking, and immediately give way to emergency vehicles.
“Your cooperation ensures faster response, safer operations, and the protection of lives and properties in our community,” she said.
Tapiru cited Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, particularly Sections 49(b) and 50, which require all motorists to give the right of way to authorized emergency vehicles responding to emergencies when sirens and signal lights are in use.
Non-compliance, she stressed, constitutes a traffic violation and may result in penalties.
She emphasized that delays during emergency responses can have serious consequences, noting that every second is critical during fire and medical incidents. Even brief obstructions, Tapiru explained, can spell the difference between saving lives and property and suffering greater loss and damage.
The BFP reiterated its call for motorists to remain alert at all times, avoid occupying the fast lane unless overtaking, and immediately yield to emergency vehicles to ensure faster response and safer operations.
The incident involved a fire that gutted a one-storey makeshift residential house at Purok Paghigugma, Barangay Alijis.
The fire was reported at 10:56 a.m., and firefighters arrived at the scene within five minutes. The blaze was placed under control at 11:08 a.m. and declared fire out at 11:10 a.m.
The affected structure, owned by Lady Desiree Pecha, housed one family composed of three individuals. No injuries or casualties were reported.
The fire totally damaged the 12-square-meter structure, with estimated losses placed at around P3,000./PN
