• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Bacolod has recorded a total of 62 grass fires and 12 rubbish fires during the period of April 1 to April 14.
City Fire Marshal Superintendent Jenny Mae Masip noted that the city has averaged two to three grass fire responses daily since the start of the month.
She previously said that the BFP has implemented controlled burning operations in areas such as BREDCO to manage operational resources and fuel consumption.
The BFP said that fire incidents were usually caused by human activity including residential rubbish burning that escapes control due to wind conditions and the accidental ignition of dry vegetation by discarded cigarette butts.
The figures exclude a recent incident in the Banago area last Tuesday, which was determined to have originated in Talisay City.
Meanwhile, Talisay City Mayor Rowena Lizares issued a public appeal for heightened vigilance following a surge in grassfire incidents attributed to the prevailing extreme heat.
The mayor urged residents to exercise caution and avoid activities that could trigger fires, specifically citing the improper disposal of cigarette butts, playing with matches, and open burning.
She said that the city government is working in close coordination with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, BFP, and volunteer fire brigades to monitor and respond to fire calls.*
