A small fire ignited by a resident in Mati City, Davao Oriental to create smoke to repel mosquitoes spread to a stockpile of tires and burned more than 300 tires.
According to the local government, a resident who owned a vulcanizing/tire shop set a small fire near a dike to create smoke to repel mosquitoes.
However, the fire spread accidentally to a pile of tires, blanketing the vicinity with thick smoke.
At least three bundles of dried coconut husks also caught fire.
Personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) responded immediately.
The fire broke out around 7:30 a.m. and was put out after around an hour.
No one was reported hurt in the incident and no structures were affected.
Authorities reminded the public about the danger of improper burning practices.
“Tire fires produce massive plumes of thick, black smoke laden with toxic chemicals that pose serious health risks to anyone nearby,” the local government said in a Facebook post.
Authorities also reminded the public to:
- refrain from burning tires or any garbage. Open burning of solid waste is prohibited by law and poses serious fire and health hazards.
- avoid lighting any fire near homes, dried vegetation, or other combustible materials . Even a small controlled fire can quickly spread if conditions are windy or fuel is nearby.
- use safe alternatives to repel insects. For example, utilize mosquito coils or other approved repellents instead of igniting rubber or other hazardous materials to produce smoke.
- always supervise open flames and prepare for emergencies. Never leave a fire unattended, and keep firefighting tools (water, sand, extinguisher) on hand. Ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving them.
