SunStar Pampanga, November 20, 2006
MABALACAT - The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in this town has warned the public against the common causes of fire every Yuletide season -- firecrackers and faulty Christmas lights.
Mabalacat Fire Marshal Rufino Santos said pyrotechnics should be handled properly in order to prevent fire or injuries.
Fire officers in the town are conducting a random inspection on establishments selling illegal firecrackers, according to the BFP official who also urged pyrotechnics vendors to secure permits from the fire bureau.
Santos also disclosed that people should see to it that the Christmas lights they buy are ISO certified and has ECC (government clearance) markings.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), he said, is prohibiting traders and shopping centers from selling low-quality illuminations because of the great danger they pose to people and their properties.
Despite its limited resources, the Municipal Fire Department is prepared for any eventuality this Christmas, according to Santos.
Volunteer fire brigades like the Dee Hwa Liong respond to fire incidents in the town and other areas in the province.
