In line with the observance of Fire Prevention Month this March, Senior Fire Officer 4 (SFO4) Raul Doctolero, Chief of the Fire City Enforcement Section, reported on the achievements of the Baguio City Fire Station (BCFS) during the regular flag-raising ceremony, March 3, at City Hall.
He said that in 2024, the BCFS issued 22,588 Fire Safety Inspection Certificates for business and occupancy permits, as well as 547 Fire Safety Evaluation Clearances which ensure that businesses, establishments, and residences comply with fire safety standards, reducing the risk of fire-related incidents.
The BCFS also collected ₱20,951,284.95 through the strict implementation of fire safety laws.
These funds have played a crucial role in improving firefighting capabilities, upgrading equipment, and enhancing fire safety programs throughout the city, Doctolero said.
Fire safety goes beyond inspections and regulations, and the BCFS has remained proactive in educating the public.
He said throughout the year, fire drills and safety seminars were conducted in both private and government establishments, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in preventing disasters.
Despite these preventive measures, the station responded to 96 fire incidents in 2024, highlighting the persistent threat of fire-related emergencies, Doctolero revealed.
Additionally, their Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were deployed 152 times, providing life-saving assistance to those in need. Meanwhile, 96 operational deployments ensured a swift and effective response to various emergencies across the city.
As Fire Prevention Month promotes proactive fire safety measures, he said that simple habits such as unplugging unused appliances, avoiding overloaded electrical outlets, and ensuring that fire extinguishers are accessible at home and in the workplace can significantly reduce fire hazards.
“Always remember, sa pag iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, the Baguio City Fire Station is always here, ready to save lives and properties,” Doctolero stressed.
The BCFS reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives and properties and as the city moves forward into 2025, Doctolero urged everyone to make fire safety a daily priority, emphasizing that fire prevention is a shared responsibility.
“Let us continue working together to keep our city safe,” he pleaded, adding that with fire safety awareness at the forefront, Fire Prevention Month serves as a timely reminder for all citizens to remain vigilant and fire-ready at all times. – Baguio City Public Information Office
