Thursday, December 22, 2016

Eastern Visayas cops step up enforcement of firecracker regulations

PALO, Leyte, Dec. 18 (PNA) -– The Philippine National Police (PNP) regional office here has ordered its personnel to intensify the enforcement of firecracker regulations this holiday season.

PNP Eastern Visayas Regional Director Chief Supt. Elmer Beltejar said the police force should prioritize the implementation of Republic Act No. 7183 or the law that regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.

This statement was made by the PNP regional chief as cops prepare for the upcoming celebration of Christmas and New Year wherein Filipinos traditionally use firecrackers to welcome the holidays.

According to Beltejar, the police together with the Department of Health, Bureau of Fire Protection, and other concerned government agencies are working hand in hand for a zero firecracker-related incident and damages to property during the Yuletide season.

“The police will go after manufacturers of illegal fireworks and firecrackers and will remain vigilant against those who are not strictly complying with safety guidelines,” Beltejar said.

The PNP encourages the public to use safe merry-making instruments and alternative noise-makers instead of using firecrackers and fireworks that pose risks to life and limbs and public safety.

The PNP reminded the public to use only authorized firecrackers products; follow the manufacturer’s instruction on the labels; use a flat and solid surface with no dry grass when lighting firework products; not to use matches, candles, lighters, sparklers and cigarettes to ignite the firecracker; use punk incense strikes instead to avoid catching the blast on your hands.

The public is also advised move away when the firework strand ignites, not to attempt to re-light firecrackers that failed to ignite, and wear safety apparel when lighting firecrackers.

As the PNP will be on full alert status during the Yuletide season, the police asks the public to stay safe and report to them relevant and timely information with regards to the holiday season through the nationwide emergency hotline 911 or social media. (PNA)
LAP/SQM/PR

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