500 Families lose their homes in massive Cavite fire

A massive fire razed 300 homes, devastating about 500 families, reports ABS-CBN News.

Based on an initial investigation by the Bureau of Fire and Protection in Bacoor, the blaze started in an abandoned house. It spread quickly because the houses were built extremely close together and made of light materials.  The fire lasted for a few hours, before authorities declared that they had successfully put it out at around 9:30 in the evening on June 19, 2018. 

The fire left 1.5 million in damages, but there have been no reported injuries or casualties. In various interviews with ABS-CBN, residents who lost their homes recounted how they weren't able to save any of their possessions because they prioritized making sure their families were safe. 

They are currently being relocated to various evacuation centers and are appealing to the public to help them by donating food, clothing, and other basic supplies.

Five months ago another massive fire struck a seaside community in Bacoor, leaving 400 families without homes. 

You can watch the full report below.

Fire Accidents in The Philippines: Fire Safety Tips all Families Should Know About 

A fire can strike at any time. Even if you make sure to take the necessary safety measures inside your home, like not leaving candles lit, or making sure appliances are unplugged when not in use, you can't be certain that your neighbors will be equally cautious.

So it's best to always be prepared because the safety of your family depends on it. Always remember the following:

1. Conduct your own fire drill at home

Make sure every family member knows what to do in the event of a fire. Conduct your own fire drills, making sure everyone knows how to get out and head to a safe meeting place in under three minutes. 

2. Check your exits at all times

Whether you are at home, work, or in school, each member of the family must know their nearest safe exits at all times. Note that there should be at least two ways to exit a room in the event of an emergency. It doesn't have to be a door, it can be a large unobstructed windows. If you have installed safety grilles on your windows, make sure you can easily remove them from the inside.

3. Ensure that appliances are upgraded and safe to use

Yes, you might have to spend a bit more, but invest in your family's safety by having appliances checked to avoid overheating or overloading, which could cause a sudden fire. Don't use cheap Christmas lights and decorations. Steer clear of cheap butane canisters that are refilled with LPG. Make sure your LPG tanks are safe and intact.

4. Watch out for combustible materials

Though they're merely decorative, twinkly lights or christmas lights can be fire hazards. Don't leave them on over night. Make sure not to smoke on the bed or on the couch. As stated, don't leave candles lit overnight.

5. Educate children about fire hazards

Aside from keeping fire hazards, like matches and lighters, out of reach, let children know why this needs to be done. 

What to do in the event of a fire 

1. Get out and stay out (Stay Low!)

Once every family member has made it safely out, make sure no one runs back in to save any object.  Remember to crouch down under smoke and crawl as fast as possible. Many fire-related deaths aren't due to burns, but smoke inhalation.

2. Call for help

The National Fire Emergency hotline is 117, but make sure you know the number of the fire station nearest your home. 

3. Don't open warm door knobs

If a door knob feels warm to the touch do not open it. It means there is a large flame on the other side. Just place a wet towel under the door and use a second exit, like a nearby window. If you are trapped, use a flashlight, mirror, or bright cloth so rescuers can easily find you.

4. Stop, drop and roll!

If your clothes catch fire, drop to the ground and roll around to extinguish the fire. Teach your family to do the same.

source: ABS-CBN News 

Also READ: What are the top 3 causes of fires in the Philippines?