BFP ordered to strictly enforce the Fire Code

Now that it is the season for renewal of business permits, the Department of Interior and Local Government wants the Bureau of Fire Protection to strictly enforce the Fire Code to prevent fires,

DILG Secretary Ronaldo Puno issued a memorandum ordering C/Supt. Jose Collado, the officer-in-charge of BFP, to review and confirm that business and commercial establishments have adequate and fully functioning fire exits, fire alarms, smoke detectors and other fire safety equipment and facilities.

To secure or renew permits, businesses have to undergo inspection by the BFP.

To be prioritized are structures that are highly populated like shopping malls and schools.

At least 24 people, mostly shoppers and store employees, were killed and 22 others were injured in a fire that burned down the Unitop Department Store in Ormoc City, Leyte, last Christmas Day, it was caused by a firecracker.

Police said an exit door at the back of the store was padlocked and firemen had to break the lock to allow people trapped inside the store to get out.

The deadline set for the filing and renewal of business permits is January 15. -Ferliza C. Contratista/BRP