In observance of the Fire Prevention Month held every March, the Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB) through its First Responders Committee, in cooperation with the Bureau of Fire Protection – Los Baños (BFP-LB), conducted a seminar on fire safety and prevention last February 13, 2023 right after the institute’s flag ceremony.

The administrative and academic staff of IPB actively participated in the two-hour activity with this year’s theme, “Sa Pag-iwas ng Sunog, Hindi ka Nag-iisa.” FO2 Ricardo Culvera, Jr. and FO2 Gelo Delos Santos discussed the importance of fire safety, including the basic chemistry and classes of fire.

“When oxygen, heat, and fuel are present, a chemical reaction occurs. We have to take any of these elements to prevent the emergence of fire that could threaten our lives, health, properties and environment,” said FO2 Culvera. It was emphasized that it is crucial to understand the sources of fire so that one can act accordingly to prevent the spread of unwanted fires.

“When your clothes catch fire, you don’t have to panic. Instead, stop, drop, and roll to minimize burn injury,” explained FO2 Culvera. The fire officers also demonstrated the proper use of a fire extinguisher as one of the basic firefighting techniques. Moreover, they reminded IPB to regularly inspect the fire extinguishers in every building to comply with the fire safety regulations.

Mr. Yron M. Retuta, head of the First Responders Committee, expressed his gratitude to BFP-LB for sharing their time, expertise, and support.

For fire related incidents and emergencies, contact BFP-LB at (049) 536-7965. (Dianne B. Ubaldo)