Because of the worrisome spike in fire accidents across our country,

Presidential Proclamation No. 115-A was implemented declaring March as Fire

Prevention Month. The theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Month is “Sa Pag-iwas
sa Sunog Hindi Ka Nag-iisa.”  With this year's theme, it reminds people that
firefighters are always ready to help in times of destructive fire accidents. It gives
assurance to the people that they are willing to provide leadership to foster a solid
foundation in prevention, preparedness and response to fire.

This celebration is such a great opportunity to raise awareness on fire-related

incidents and educate the Filipinos on the best fire prevention practices and safety
tips. It aims To heighten public’s awareness of the importance of Fire Prevention in
saving lives and properties. In our country, there is a fire incident almost everyday
destroying the lives and shelter of thousands of people. Due to inadequate knowledge
and awareness of people in fire prevention, many people get trapped inside the
building that results in casualties, injuries, and worst loss of lives. Perhaps, Fire
Prevention is pivotal to commemorate the braveness of every firefighters who risks
their lives just to save people. It is also a fundamental period to make use of talks and
forums to create a platform for discourse, particularly on fire causes, and fire
prevention and safety tips to the people. The Bureau of Fire Protection can use this
opportunity to remind and motivate the public to make fire safety a priority. And in
times of trouble, they ensure the public to immediately lend their service in preventing
and suppressing all types of fires and delivering emergency medical and rescue
services. Through the programs and activities in this month such as fire drills, people
will feel safer and secured if they are fully equipped with community hazard map, a
detailed guide for the exit routes, evacuation routes, and predetermined evacuation
areas when any form of emergency strikes. This years theme is a great reminder that
fight against fire incidents is not solely the fight of Filipinos but a collaboration of the
bureau and every citizens. 

Indeed, the month of March is dedicated to raising awareness and spreading

information. Fires will continue to occur at other times. As a result, everyone must do
their share to learn more about fire prevention and safety guidelines, and remember to
use them if they are needed. Likewise, to be responsible in keeping our own
household to be safe from fire. During a fire, doing one's part by being watchful and
smart saves another's life.