By Laycha K. Marra

Bontoc, Mountain Province- In line with the observance of March as fire prevention month, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) piloted a fun run dubbed as Takbo Laban sa Sunog 2016.

March is Fire Prevention Month to remind everyone to take precautions to prevent fires in homes, offices, and communities. This year’s 50th observance of Fire Prevention Month theme is “Kaalaman at Pagtutulungan ng Sambayanan, Kaligtasan sa Sunog Makakamtan.”

35 personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection from the Provincial Office and Bontoc Municipal Fire Station, and at least 500 civilian participants run for fire safety on March 5, 2016 from Bontoc Fire Station to Chatta in support of the activity.

The 3.6 Kilometer run was joined by runners, sports enthusiasts, non-government organizations, and other government agencies.

The fun run aims to increase the awareness of the community regarding fire prevention, decrease the number of fire incidents specifically forest/grass fire, expose the participants to the beauty of nature and improve physical fitness as well.

The BFP expressed their appreciation to all participants during the fun run and requests the people’s continuous support on their activities and to observe fires safety precautions every day.

Aside from the fun run, the BFP will conduct the Berong Bombero sa Paaralan in all elementary schools wherein fire safety awareness campaign thru story telling will be done. A refresher training course for all volunteer fire brigades and Barangay Disaster Control Brigade will be conducted as well and a three-day open house of all fire stations in the province. Drawing Contest, photo contest and poster making contest will be conducted for elementary and secondary schools. Singing contest will also be organized exclusively for BFP personnel.

Fire Prevention Month is observed every year per Presidential Proclamation No. 115-A aimed at raising the level of awareness of the public of the ways to prevent fires and save lives and properties.