Firecrackers, fireworks go off in Lapu-lapu City fire

Fireworks and firecrackers for sale instead went off in Lapu-lapu City after a fire hit a stall in Sitio Kapayas, Baranggay Canjulao. 

According to Raffy Tima's report on "24 Oras," some even went the way of parked motorcycles.

There were no reported injuries or casualties at the incident, as the firefighters were able to respond to the incident promptly. 

This, however, caused massive damage to the area. 

The report cited the explosion that occurred in 2007 at a firecracker shop in Bocaue, Bulacan. 

This also created massive damage within the area. Since then, Bocaue has implemented some changes to its policies, such as prohibiting firecracker testing and smoking.

Warnings and signages were also posted on various places to remind residents.  

“Meron ho kaming fire extinguisher, tubig, buhangin atsaka fireball at yung tumutunog, ano tawag dyan, may fire alarm po kayo, oo fire alarm,” said Evelyn Mendoza, firecracker shop owner.

(We have a fire extinguisher, water, sand, and fireball, and  fire alarm.)

It is said that the Bureau of Fire Protection is also making regular rounds in all 75 stores and 7 manufacturing sites in Bocaue to remind owners regarding the rules. Firecrackers stocked in stores are also being limited.

“Meron lang po kasing talagang nakalagay kung ilan lang po yung pu-puwedeng i-imbak kasi the more na mas marami, mas nakakatakot yun tapos dapat maayos yung paligid, walang gaanong dumi,” said Bocaue Fire Station PIO Fire Officer Joseph Rhayan Evangelista. 

(There is only a specific number of how many can be stored because the more firecrackers stored, the more dangerous it will be, then the surroundings must also be clean, and there should not be much dirt.) —Sherylin Untalan/NB, GMA Integrated News