Public reminded to handle firecrackers safely

CEBU, Philippines -  Talisay City Association of Barangay Councils president and City Councilor Charles Basillote yesterday urged his fellow barangay captains and officials to be vigilant as he reminded their constituents to be careful in handling firecrackers and pyrotechnics during the New Year revelry.

Basillote also reminded constituents not to fire their guns and report to proper authorities those who will fire guns.

The PNP has banned indiscriminate firing of guns by any individual during the holidays and especially during the New Year and promised penalties to any member of the PNP found positive of firing guns during the revelry.

The DOH has repeatedly advised people to conduct “community fireworks” and local governments to assign specific areas where adults can light firecrackers during the New Year revelry.

The Bureau of Fire Protection in this city has joined the campaign to remind the people to be careful in celebrating the New Year to avoid fires and firecracker injuries.

Talisay City fire marshal Antonio Ortiz appealed to the people to take note of reminders for a safe New Year’s celebration. First, BFP convince people to avoid igniting firecrackers. Instead, people can use “torotot” or trumpets and other safe sound-producing materials.

If fireworks are to be used, Ortiz reminds people to use these appropriately in designated areas, not where there are many people. They remind people not to throw firecrackers anywhere especially lighted firecrackers to roofs of houses.

Ortiz also asked people not to burn car tires. Not only do these cause pollution, he said it can also start a fire.  After the celebration, BFP recommends people to wet all firecrackers that did not go off.

“We should not sacrifice our safety and our loved ones for indiscriminate use of pyrotechnic materials,” he said.  –BRP (FREEMAN)