Bureau of Fire Protection issues Philippines fire safety reminder
Iain Hoey
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Philippines fire safety advice for homes and firms
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Antique has urged households and business establishments to follow fire prevention and safety measures during the dry season after Fire Prevention Month in March.
In San Jose, Antique, the Philippines Bureau of Fire Protection said high temperatures can raise the risk of grass fires and forest fires and can also lead to heavier use of electrical appliances.
BFP Antique Senior Fire Officer II Jefferson A. Cordero said fire incidents can happen more easily during the dry season because extreme heat can trigger outdoor fires and increase electrical use.
The bureau said it is continuing several programmes in the province, including Oplan Ligtas na Pamayanan, which involves household inspections to identify fire hazards and explain safety measures such as exit drills.
Fire Officer II and information officer Euly Mae Raymaro reminded households to close gas stoves securely, put out charcoal or wood after cooking and avoid overusing extension wires that can lead to octopus wiring and short circuits.
Philippines business checks and emergency contact advice
The BFP said business owners must obtain fire safety inspection certificates before business permits are issued so buildings can be checked for fire safety compliance.
Requirements listed for a fire safety certificate include unobstructed exits with enough space for people to pass through and at least one fire extinguisher in the building.
The bureau also said evacuation plans must be displayed clearly so occupants can identify exit points during an emergency.
Good housekeeping also forms part of the requirements because organised belongings can help limit fire spread.
Raymaro said people visiting forestlands and grasslands in Antique should take care when using open flames in areas that are vulnerable to fire.
The BFP said contact numbers for each municipal fire station are listed on official Facebook pages and in barangay halls, and the public can also call 911 during fire incidents or other emergencies.
Fire incident figures in Antique
Antique recorded 243 fire incidents in 2025, according to the BFP.
From January to February 2025, the province recorded 28 fire incidents.
From January to February 2026, that figure fell to 20 fire incidents.
BFP Antique said it is continuing its fire prevention and mitigation awareness work across the community as the dry season begins.