BFP on red alert status for Holy Week

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has placed itself on a red alert status of readiness this Holy Week.

The BFP said it will increase the visibility of its personnel in public places, especially in transportation terminals, churches, malls, and major establishments nationwide.

Ambulances from emergency medical services will also be pre-positioned along major thoroughfares to assist motorists in need of medical attention, while additional firefighting teams will be on standby in case of fire, the agency said.

“Since people will be out of their homes, the red alert status is raised to double-guard the area of responsibilities of the different fire stations. Some of the fire trucks will also be deployed for visibility and will be positioned in major routes taken by travelers,” Fire Chief Inspector Jude Delos Reyes, spokesperson of BFP, said in a statement on Wednesday.

The BFP also reminded the public against three major causes of fire during the summer season: overloading or short circuit in electrical connections, lighted cigarette butts, and open flame from torches.

To prevent incidents of fire, the BFP urges the public to turn off their circuit breakers, shut their LPG regulators and switch off their main water valves when leaving their houses for a long time.

The agency also advises the public to properly store combustible liquids, matches and candles in dry and cool storage, and to close all windows and lock doorways to minimize incidents of theft and possible intrusion of cigarette butts or embers that may cause fire.

“The Bureau of Fire Protection is available round-the-clock to help ensure the safety of our citizens for a solemn, meaningful, and peaceful observance of Holy Week 2019,” the bureau said.

The BFP can be reached through national emergency hotline 911 for fire and health emergencies.  /muf

RELATED STORY: Palace: Gov’t agencies on heightened alert this Holy Week