THE Department of Energy (DOE) in the Visayas is stepping up its campaign on the safe use of liquefied petroleum gas and energy conservation in Negros Occidental.
The agency, through its E-Power Mo Program, has partnered with the Philippine Information Agency in conducting the Barangay Forum on Energy Conservation and Safe LPG Use at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City, November 20.
It was participated by about 60 multi-sectoral group representatives from various barangays in Bacolod City and Murcia town.
DOE-Visayas officer-in-charge Jose Rey Maleza, who spoke at the forum, said the agency has been campaigning for energy conservation and safe use of LPG and other petroleum products.
Maleza said they want, this time, to further bring down the DOE information campaign up to the barangay level.
“Proper use of LPG will result in conservation of energy,” he said, adding that “but the main purpose really of the forum is to ensure safety as unsafe use of these products may cause tragedies and accidents especially among households.”
Among the mandates of the DOE includes non-use of “gasulito” or small LPG inside the house unlike those of 11 kilograms.
It is also implementing standards on how to use and do business with LPG. The tank, for instance, should comply with the Philippine National Standards.
Maleza said though the records of the Bureau of Fire Protection showed minimal fire incidents involving LPG, testimonies would tell different stories.
“Thus, it is better to prevent these untoward incidents rather than doing nothing,” he added.
Amid the approaching holiday season, DOE-Visayas reminded Negrenses to buy Christmas lights which are compliant to standards.
Households are urged to put off electrical decorations and other products when the house is unattended or when everybody is asleep, and move away these items from any flammable materials.(EPN)