Talisay fire dep’t to strictly enforce rules governing sale of fireworks

CEBU, Philippines - The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Talisay City will make the celebration of Christmas and New Year’s Day safer this time.

Talisay City fire marshal Antonio Ortiz said his bureau will intensify inspections of all establishments that are engaged in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of pyrotechnics.

Ortiz said malls will be inspected because the sale of pyrotechnics in these places is prohibited, in compliance with RA 91154 or the Revised Fire Code of the Philippines.

Ortiz wants to make sure that all firecrackers being sold are under government prescription.

The inspection of establishments is in compliance with the memorandum issued by then Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo which order city and municipal fire marshals to conduct assessments to ensure the strict observance of establishment owners particularly those selling firecrackers and pyrotechnics are following the provision of the Fire Code.

The BFP official appealed to revelers to ensure the proper disposal of garbage when they welcome 2013.

The agency also reminded the public to refrain from burning old tires during the New Year revelry as these are hazardous to the environment and to people’s health.

Vice Mayor Alan G. Bucao wants the Bureau of Fire and Protection (BFP) to immediately designate common areas for the display and sale of firecrackers to make the celebration of Christmas and the New Year safer and cleaner.

Bucao, who is the chairman of the committee on public safety, said that designating a common firework area would make the celebration of Christmas and New Year safer and cleaner.

Bucao said vendors should observe the proper guidelines in selling and making explosives.

Bucao said the paramount consideration is safety, not only to those who use firecrackers, but to those who may likely be hurt by these products such as the vendors themselves.

As a standard operating procedure, displayed pyrotechnics should be covered with plastic especially those near the sidewalk.

“No Smoking and No Testing” signs are also required to be displayed in every stall selling firecrackers. (FREEMAN)