Most of us are probably aware that Fire Prevention Month is celebrated every March. We see it everywhere – in social media pages, articles, news and advertisements. But are we really aware about the importance of this celebration?
Romeo M. Maltezo Jr., Senior Superintendent and Acting Director of Directory for Fire Safety Enforcement of the Bureau of Fire Protection National Headquarters, explained the importance of this awareness campaign through an exclusive FB live stream in Phelps Dodge’s FB page with our Senior Sales Specialist, Gilbert Dupitas.
What is Fire Prevention Month?
Fire Prevention Month wants to raise the awareness of our fellow Filipinos about fire safety. Former President Ferdinand E. Marcos signed the Proclamation No. 115-A in 1966 to celebrate Fire Prevention Month at the start of the hot season in the Philippines.
What is the Major Cause of Fire in the Philippines?
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection’s data, the most common cause of fire in the Philippines is electrical connection hazards. Most Filipinos have the habit of using octopus connections, where a single outlet or extension is used for almost all of the appliances and gadgets in the household. Electrical connections are designed to cater to a specific electrical load, and overloading these connections is a potential fire hazard.
How to Prevent Fires in Your Household:
- Avoid using octopus connections. Overloading electrical outlets can cause short circuits which in turn can ignite fires.
- Dispose cigarette butts properly. Most cigarette users smoke inside their homes; leaving cigarette butts in unlikely places like the bedroom. Put ashtrays in areas where you are most likely to smoke.
- Avoid leaving open flames like candles and burners unattended. Never use open fires near flammable materials.
What to Consider in Choosing Electrical Wires for Your Homes?
Make sure that the wires installed in your homes comply with the Philippine Electrical Code where the correct number and sizes of wires to be used is indicated. Always consult a licensed electrical practitioner who can design and identify the appropriate wire connections in your homes before installation.
What is the Importance of Fire Safety?
As Sir Romeo said, “’Di bale nang manakawan ka ng sampung beses, wag ka lang masunugan.” It is more important to have a house to return to. Fixtures can be replaced easier than the house itself. It is also important to ensure the safety of our loved ones from fires by being cautious.
This year, the Bureau of Fire Protection is again encouraging everyone to participate and practice fire safety awareness with the theme “Sa pag-iwas sa sunog, hindi ka nag-iisa.” No one is alone in keeping our homes, workplaces and our community safe. We can have a better future where our investments are protected against fires.
How can Phelps Dodge Help You
Did you know that Phelps Dodge offers THHN/THWN-2 wire that is trusted in quality, durability and safety?
Our THHN/THWN-2 wire is flame retardant. In case of a fire, once the fire source is removed/gone, flame retardant wires self-extinguish in a matter of seconds.
We tested our THHN/THWN-2 by exposing the wire to open fire for 15 seconds, the standard used in flame tests. After removing the fire source, our THHN/THWN-2 wire ceased to burn after a second!
Are you aware which brand and type of wire is installed in your house? If not, contact your licensed electrical practitioner now to check.
Don’t compromise your safety. Make sure that your home is “Wired safe by PD!”