Fire stations on heightened alert for Undas —Cuy

The Department of Interior and the Local Government (DILG) has ordered all fire stations under the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to be on heightened alert starting Friday until November 2 for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day (Undas).

DILG officer-in-charge Catalino Cuy said Thursday he also directed the BFP to conduct fire safety inspections on places where high volumes of people are expected to converge such as transport stations and land and air terminals, marine public transportation facilities and piers, mortuary chapels, columbaria, and public and private cemeteries.

“Remembering our departed loved ones has been deeply ingrained in our Filipino culture. I am confident that our BFP personnel will be able to carry out the task of ensuring that this year’s commemoration of Undas will be solemn, safe, and fire-free,” Cuy said in a press statement.

He added ambulances and emergency medical teams from the BFP will also be deployed in public places and other strategic locations.

He said BFP personnel will also conduct a community information drive in different areas, distribute flyers on fire safety tips, and announce fire safety precautions through a public address system in public and private cemeteries during the duration of Oplan Kaluluwa operation.

To prevent fire incidents, the BFP urged the public to ensure that all light and electrical equipment are unplugged and switched off before leaving the house.

It also advised the public to clean and clear surroundings of any debris that might cause or attract smoke and fire.

It said the public should make sure that all garbage cans are covered from cigarettes.

It said lighted candles should not be placed on top of or away from cartons,  plastics, and wood or any material that easily burn. — MDM, GMA News