BFP warns public vs lighting sky lanterns

With the New Year drawing closer, the Bureau of Fire Protection on Saturday warned the public against lighting sky lanterns, which it said may cause fires.

BFP officer-in-charge Chief Superintendent Carlito Romero said lighting sky lanterns is considered a violation of the Fire Code of the Philippines.

"Sa atin pong batas, ang Fire Code, ipinagbabawal ang pag-launch ng sky lantern. Ang dahilan po niyan, ito ay open burning," Romero said in an interview on dzBB radio.

The Fire Code's Section 10.5.4.3 prohibits open burning that can "cause the emission of toxic and poisonous fumes" and can deposit ashes or cinders "liable to spontaneous ignition."

Romero also pointed out sky lanterns are liable to cause fires because they can no longer be controlled once they are launched into the air.

"Walang kasiguraduhan kung saan babagsak ang lantern na may apoy," he said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health advised people with respiratory problems to wear face masks and stay indoors especially when fireworks are lighted.

Those with severe respiratory problems were also advised to keep their nebulizers handy, radio dzBB reported Saturday. — LBG, GMA News