BFP opens doors to children
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — As part of Fire Prevention Month and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Community Relations Week, the San Francisco Fire Station organized an open house and station tour for children on March 10 at the San Francisco Fire Station in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.
The
children were warmly welcomed by a mascot, dressed in a firefighter’s uniform,
as part of an educational demonstration showcasing the bravery and dedication
of firefighters in responding to fire incidents.
“Apart
from visiting barangays, we also invite children because they are among the
most vulnerable individuals during fire incidents. They should be our priority
in fire prevention education since, in some cases, they unintentionally cause
fires while playing with matches or other flammable materials,” said Fire
Senior Inspector Cypol Jay Inocente, municipal fire marshal of BFP San
Francisco.
“We will
give them a tour of our station, let them experience riding a fire truck and
teach them basic fire prevention knowledge,” he added.
The
parents expressed their appreciation for the BFP’s initiative, recognizing its
importance in educating children at an early age on fire safety and prevention.
“This
program helps our children understand how to prevent fires, especially when we
are not around,” said Nesilier Bansig, a parent.
“It makes
them more familiar with fire prevention equipment and reassures them that
firefighters are trustworthy individuals who are always ready to protect them,”
said Jaime Bernet, another parent.
The
activity educated both children and parents on fire safety precautions and
prevention through interactive and engaging activities. They were given a tour,
practical demonstrations on how to use a fire extinguisher and guidance on the
proper steps to take before, during and after a fire incident.
The
initiative not only served as an educational opportunity but also helped
strengthen the relationship between firefighters and the community.
“Fire
prevention is not solely the responsibility of the BFP. It is a shared duty
among individuals, families, agencies and public servants. We all have a role
to play,” said Inocente.
“We encourage parents to be the first firefighters in their homes by teaching their children fire safety,” he added. (KKG, PIA Agusan del Sur)
