CENTRAL Visayas saw at least 857 fires in 2021 with a total amount of damage of more than P320 million, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP 7) reported.

There were fewer fires in 2021 in the region compared to 2020, which saw 918 fires. However, the total amount of damage in 2020 was only P231.3 million.

The BFP 7 reported 2020 was the deadlier with 30 civilian casualties compared to 2021’s 25.

In 2020 and 2021, common causes of fires were electrical ignition caused by arcing (loose, damaged, or corroded wires and terminal), open flame from cooking through gas, liquefied petroleum gas, stove and firewood, and electrical ignition caused by loose connection.

The cities of Cebu, Mandaue and Dumaguete reported the most fire incidents for 2020 and 2021.

Common types of occupancy involved include single and two family dwelling, grass fire and mercantile for 2020.

In 2021, single and two family dwelling, grass fire and automobiles were usually involved in fire incidents.