March is Fire Prevention Month, so it’s an ideal time for the public to be reminded of the importance of fire safety.

Fires continue to be a persistent threat, with incidents affecting communities from the very start of the year. For instance, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in the National Capital Region (NCR) reported nine fire incidents on the first day of 2025 alone.

As the dry season sets in and the risk of fires increases, the public is encouraged to take proactive steps to protect their homes, businesses, and communities.

Here are some of the common causes of fires that you can avoid:

Electric malfunctions

Even outside the dry season, electrical faults remain a common cause of fires, especially in homes built with substandard materials. 

These electrical mishaps can occur year-round, with overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, and improperly maintained electrical equipment being the primary culprits.

To prevent this, ensure that your electrical systems must be properly installed, maintained, and regularly inspected.

Unattended cooking

Fires can break out in kitchens due to stove or gas leaks if left unchecked, which commonly happens in spaces without proper ventilation. 

This hazard can be prevented if you never leave your stove unattended. Accordingly, it’s important to keep the area around your stove clear of any flammable objects and to always be vigilant when handling fire or cooking equipment. 

Improper disposal of cigarette butts

Yes, you’ve read that right! This small mistake can lead to significant and far-reaching consequences. 

Still-lit cigarette butts have been known to ignite dry grass or materials, particularly in rural areas.