The Davao City Fire District (DCFD) has issued a critical reminder to residents, emphasizing the importance of avoiding substandard appliances and unsafe wiring practices to mitigate fire hazards. This advisory follows a concerning trend of fire incidents recorded from January to February 2026, with a total of 114 cases reported. Fortunately, no casualties have been documented during this period, but the frequency of these events underscores the urgent need for heightened safety measures.
Electrical Fires Lead the Statistics
According to the DCFD, electrical fires remain the most prevalent cause of incidents, closely followed by open flames from rubbish fires and bonfires. Fire Senior Inspector Frances Marie S. Sendrijas, who serves as the Public Information chief for the district, highlighted that responsibility for fire prevention begins at the household level. She stressed that dangerous practices, such as octopus wiring and overloading outlets, must be avoided to ensure family safety.
Expert Advice on Appliance Safety
In an interview with Madayaw Davao over Davao City Disaster Radio on February 12, 2026, Sendrijas provided specific guidance. "We really advise them that when buying an appliance, if possible, avoid substandard ones and also avoid octopus wiring, connecting extension wires and then overloading them," she stated. She further clarified that selecting quality products does not necessarily mean opting for expensive items; rather, it involves choosing safe and reliable options to prevent potential hazards.
Community Outreach and Emergency Protocols
To bolster fire prevention efforts, the DCFD continues to strengthen its community program, 'Oplan Ligtas sa Pamayanan'. This initiative involves personnel visiting barangays to educate residents on preventive measures, fostering a culture of responsibility and safety. Additionally, the district has urged Dabawenyos to act swiftly in emergencies. If a fire becomes uncontrollable, residents should immediately call 911 or the nearest fire station. Sendrijas added, "Let’s always be careful if we see a fire. If you can no longer extinguish it, please call the nearest fire station or just dial 911. And again, give way to our emergency vehicles during fire fighting operations."
This proactive approach aims to reduce fire risks and enhance public awareness, ensuring that Davao City remains vigilant against potential disasters.
