Fire occurrence during the “ber” months (September to December) is higher this year compared to 2024, prompting the Quezon City Fire Department (QCFD) to caution its residents to take more precautionary measures to avoid such incidents.

Fire Sr. Insp. Rober Maravilla of the QCFD said they have recorded 39 fire incidents, compared to 27 in 2024, prompting them to intensify their information campaign, especially as welcoming the New Year is fast approaching.

"May mga ginagawa na kaming hakbang like yun Ugnayan sa Barangay directing all our QCFD subtations conducting dialogues and lectures and distribution of our safety flyers. Encouragin the community the use of alternative noise making devices such as 'torotot' or any other safety devices that can be use rather than fire crackers," Maravilla said.

He added that to prevent fireworks-related injuries (FWRIs) and other forms of trauma, and to raise awareness and highlight how to prevent these and other injuries, all fire stations are also instructed to put up large banners or tarpaulins, and even use fire trucks, to remind the public about fire safety.

Continuous fire truck visibility and public safety addresses are also ordered for fire stations and sub-stations to conduct roving operations in their areas of jurisdiction using pre-recorded warnings and fire safety announcements.

Maravilla said deployment areas are also strategically pinpointed for quick response during New Year revelry and safety. He recommended that those who will leave their houses during the holidays should unplug all electrical appliances.

"It is best, at siguro para safe tanggalin natin mga naka-plugged na appliances, lalo kung aalis tayo ng matagal o uuwi ng probinsiya," Maravilla said.

Meanwhile, the local government unit will be fielding 200 personnel from its Department of Public Safety and Order (DPSO) for the city’s New Year Countdown Celebration at the Quezon City Memorial Circle and Eastwood.

A total of 52 fireworks displays and 20 sellers were also given fireworks clearances.