• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bureau of Fire Protection in Bacolod City has reported a daily average of two to three grass fire responses throughout the month of April.
City Fire Marshal Superintendent Jenny Mae Masip confirmed that the city has yet to record a day without a fire incident during the current month.
In response to the frequency of these calls, the BFP has initiated controlled burning operations, particularly in the BREDCO area, which has been identified as a frequent site for grass fire incidents.
By conducting supervised burns of dried vegetation, the BFP aims to prevent spontaneous fires that would otherwise require repeated emergency deployments.
Masip explained that this proactive approach is intended to conserve fuel and operational resources during the current energy crisis, with fire trucks stationed on standby at these sites to ensure the dried grass is fully cleared.
Investigation into these recent incidents suggests that human activity remains the leading cause of ignition.
According to Masip, many grass fires originate from rubbish burning initiated by residents that grows beyond their control when wind speeds increase.
The BFP also noted that discarded cigarette butts remain a significant risk factor because the vegetation is highly combustible after a prolonged lack of rainfall.
While Masip admits that implementing penalties can be challenging as it requires witnesses to prove a person’s involvement in the spread of a fire, individuals found responsible for starting fires that lead to property damage can be prosecuted under existing laws.
The BFP urged property owners to regularly cut grass and clear debris to remove potential fuel for fires.*
