Children and fires

More than a hundred houses were razed on Friday, leaving approximately the same number of families homeless in both Lapu-Lapu City and Mandaue City. The Bureau of Fire Protection has not yet disclosed the cause of either fire, citing ongoing investigations. However, neighbors were quick to point out that children might have been involved in igniting the blaze. Reportedly, the young ones were seen playing with objects known to be highly flammable.

The firefighters’ discretion in maintaining the confidentiality of both the children and their witnesses is in the best interest of all parties involved. It is also important to remember that individuals —regardless of age— are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The issue here, however, is less about assigning blame and more about addressing the critical topic of parental supervision. This is a sensitive issue that many are reluctant to confront, but it remains essential. Parents have unique parenting styles tailored to their children.

While I do not have children of my own, I am aware of the responsibilities involved in raising them. Parenting goes beyond teaching children their ABCs and 123s. It also involves instilling a sense of caution, such as ensuring they understand the dangers of handling harmful objects. Constant vigilance is crucial, especially when children are awake and active. Admittedly, many parents are burdened by the demands of building their careers, which can limit their ability to supervise their children around the clock. However, there are always creative ways to mitigate these challenges.

One effective approach is ensuring that children receive basic safety education, both at home and in school. With the growing frequency of natural disaster —amplified by climate change— it is essential for children to know how to respond during emergencies. In Lapu-Lapu City, for example, schools incorporate disaster-response activities into games, allowing children to learn while having fun. This innovative approach achieves two goals simultaneously.

Unfortunately, nothing can undo the devastation caused by the fires, both of which reached the fourth alarm. The local government unit has extended their assistance to the affected families in the form of goods and cash. This tragedy serves as a harsh reminder that adults bear the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the safety of children in their homes. Simple preventive measures, such as keeping flammable objects out of children’s reach, could go a long way in preventing such disasters. These reminders must be taken seriously to avoid future incidents.

As January comes to a close, it is best to reflect on the fires that have already marked the start of the year. Moving forward, it is crucial to remain vigilant about potential fire hazards. The Bureau of Fire Protection deserves commendation for their swift response and ongoing investigation. However, this incident also highlights broader systemic issues, such as the proliferation of densely-packed houses made of light materials. This phenomenon is a byproduct of the rising cost of living and the need for affordable housing in urban areas —a complex issue that demands further attention. Ultimately, the lessons from these fires should prompt collective action.