THE 3,472 fire incidents recorded in Western Visayas in 2024 show a need for greater fire safety awareness in our communities. These fires, which caused over P747.3 million in property losses, are a wake-up call to every household, business, and local government unit (LGU).
While the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Region 6, under Fire Chief Supt. Felixberto Abrenica, has intensified its fire safety campaigns, the sheer scale of incidents emphasize the need for more robust and concerted efforts. Educational programs in schools and barangays are a step in the right direction, but these initiatives must evolve into sustained and widespread community engagement.
The data tells a disturbing story: Iloilo City and Province lead in both the number of incidents (1,333) and financial losses (P403 million). Meanwhile, grassfires accounted for a significant portion of non-structural fires, particularly during the dry months of March and April. These localized trends point to vulnerabilities that can be addressed through targeted interventions.
LGUs should partner with the BFP to ensure that fire safety becomes a staple of community programs. Regular fire drills, workshops on handling fire extinguishers, and public demonstrations of evacuation protocols can significantly improve preparedness. Public markets, residential areas, and schools — places with high foot traffic — should be prioritized for these activities.
Also, enhancing fire safety awareness requires leveraging modern technology. Social media campaigns, mobile apps with fire prevention tips, and even SMS alerts during high-risk seasons can expand the reach of educational efforts. Local media also plays a big role in amplifying fire safety messages and showcasing success stories of communities that have implemented effective fire prevention measures.
But fire safety is not solely the responsibility of authorities. Residents must adopt proactive measures, such as ensuring proper electrical wiring, avoiding overloading outlets, and keeping fire extinguishers at home. Simple steps can go a long way in preventing tragedies.
The fire statistics of 2024 must not become a yearly trend. Instead, let this be the impetus for Western Visayas to take fire safety to heart. Through concerted efforts by the BFP, LGUs, schools, and individual citizens, we can build a fire-resilient region where safety and vigilance are second nature.
Remember: fire incidents are preventable.
