FIRE officials in Mandaue City advised schools to procure fire extinguishers, ensure their fire alarm systems are working and clear their fire exits.
Inspectors from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Mandaue City have been visiting private and public schools since May to check their readiness to respond to fires and other disasters.
SFO1 Sherwin Porcia, Chief of BFP Mandaue’s Fire Safety Enforcement Section, said inspectors noticed objects blocking the fire exits of some schools, while others have defective fire alarm systems.
The fire official also pointed out that many schools, especially the public ones, lack fire extinguishers.
Porcia said school officials should clear their fire exits as soon as possible.
“It’s important that they follow our instructions and suggestions for the welfare of the students, teachers and visitors,” he said.
Careful
Porcia said the BFP is careful in issuing permit for proposed classrooms.
The BFP did not approve Ibabao Elementary School’s proposal to turn a stock room into a classroom.
Porcia said the room was not conducive for learning and not safe for students because of its low ceiling and poor ventilation.
Teachers have also been taught how to use the school’s bell to alert the students in case the fire alarm does not work.
Drills
Fire and earthquake drills will be conducted in public and private schools this month.
Porcia said the drills should be done every year because there are new teachers and students who have not participated in the previous drills.