BFP to ensure fire safety in schools

Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno ordered the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to implement "Oplan School Opening Fire Safety" to ensure the safety of students living in boarding houses and dormitories.

Puno said the campaign will involve the crackdown of the so-called "firetrap" dormitories and boarding houses particularly in Metro Manila in time for the opening of classes next month.

BFP chief Director Rogelio Asignado explained that considered firetraps are buildings or structures regarded as fire hazards, either because they are built of combustible materials or lack adequate fire exits.

Puno instructed Undersecretary for Public Safety Marius Corpus to implement measures that would ensure fire safety in dormitories and boarding houses.

As part of the School Opening Fire Safety campaign, Asignado has directed fire inspectors to determine if building owners have complied with fire safety standards such as provision of fire exits and other fire safety requirements.

"We have already formed teams that will conduct inspection of dormitories and boarding houses, particularly in Metro Manila," said Asignado.

Under the law, the BFP has the power to recommend the closure of buildings and establishments found to be firetraps or fire hazards but it is still the local government which is authorized to implement closure orders.

Asignado also enjoined students to be vigilant and to report boarding houses that have no fire exits or safety measures in place. — Cecille Suerte Felipe