BFP urges fire safety vigilance as March marks start of fire-prone season
As Fire Prevention Month begins this March, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reminded the public that March, April, and May remain the most fire-prone months nationwide. The agency urged Filipinos to treat fire safety as a daily responsibility to prevent disasters and save lives.
Data from past years show that fire incidents in Metro Manila peak in March and April, while April consistently records the highest number of fires across the country. Densely populated communities, particularly informal settlements, remain the most vulnerable to fire risks.
High-risk areas and past trends
Over the past five years, 2024 recorded the highest number of fire incidents at 22,301, with April alone accounting for 3,994 cases. By comparison, 2025 logged 16,228 incidents, and 2021 recorded the lowest at 12,812. Barangays identified as fire-prone include Payatas in Quezon City, Baseco Compound in Manila, Bagong Silang in Caloocan, Maricaban in Pasay, Western Bicutan in Taguig, and Tejeros in Makati.
“Fires don’t start big. They grow exponentially, doubling in size every 30 seconds. The first minutes are crucial, and the proper relay of complete and accurate information can make all the difference in emergency response,” the BFP said.
Prevention and faster response through Unified 911
The BFP highlighted the Unified 911 system, launched last September, which allows the public to report emergencies through a single number. Fire, police, medical, and disaster incidents are routed through an integrated network linking the BFP, the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, medical services, and local governments.
“Before the E911 system, the public had to remember multiple numbers. Now, one call to 911 can summon help immediately. The faster the call reaches responders, the greater the chance of saving lives and property,” the BFP added.
To reduce fire risks during the hot summer months, the BFP urged the public to monitor heat sources, avoid unattended stoves and open flames, check electrical systems, practice safe smoking habits, address malfunctioning appliances, and prepare clear fire escape plans at home and workplaces.
With Unified 911 support, the BFP can now achieve immediate response capability nationwide, using centralized dispatch, GPS-based caller location, and stronger inter-agency coordination. While faster response saves lives, prevention remains the strongest defense as the country enters the most fire-prone months of the year.
