DAVAO CITY (September 10) – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Davao City reported a decline in fire incidents from January to August this year compared to the same period in 2024.
BFP FSINSP Russel Jake E. Marañon, Chief of the Public Information Unit of the Davao City Fire District (DCFD), said on the Madayaw morning radio program that 462 fire incidents were recorded from January to August 2025, down from 600 cases in the same period last year.
In 2024, these incidents resulted in six deaths and 12 injuries, while this year, there were five deaths and 33 injuries.
Despite the decrease, Marañon warned residents not to be complacent. He urged Dabawenyos to regularly inspect household electrical wiring and Christmas lights—both old and new—to prevent fire incidents during the upcoming Yuletide season.
“Most fire incidents in Davao City are caused by electrical ignition, faulty wiring, short circuits, or other electrical issues that trigger sparks or overheating,” Marañon explained. He noted that 114 cases this year were attributed to electrical ignition through arcing alone.
“Electrical ignition comes from overheated appliances. Arcing occurs when there are gaps between wires, causing sparks that overheat nearby materials like plastic and rubber, which can ignite fires,” he added.
Marañon also stressed that many households only check power outlets superficially, without inspecting the condition of wiring. He encouraged regular inspections by certified electricians to ensure safety.
With the Christmas season approaching, Marañon emphasized the importance of checking decorations. “This September, people are bringing out Christmas lights. We encourage everyone to check them before installation to prevent fires. Even lights with ICC marks should be inspected, and used lights exposed to sun and rain must be checked for damage,” he said.
By taking these precautions, the Davao City Fire District hopes to maintain the decline in fire incidents while keeping households safe during the festive season. City Information Office
