“Sa Pag-iwas sa sunog, Hindi ka Nag-iisa”
Words by: Paul Benedict Algrabre, BSIT
SG Board Member, Information, Marketing, and Media Creatives Committee
Iloilo City, Philippines – A fire drill was successfully conducted at Interface Computer College, Inc., Iloilo Campus on November 29, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Before the fire drill began, FO1 Silbol and FO1 Mombay of the Bureau of Fire and Protection gave a short orientation.
They explained what a fire drill is and why we practice them. They reminded everyone of the important safety rules. They explained what to do if there is a real fire. Finally, they shared a little bit about the history of fire drills.
The drill simulated a fire scenario in the library, where a laptop left charging behind a bookshelf overheated. A total of 92 individuals participated in the drill, which culminated in an evacuation to the Esplanade Iloilo. While three students sustained minor injuries, the overall drill was rated 8 out of 10. The drill involved the active participation of ICC students, faculty, and staff, with the Fire Brigade Team, led by Ms. Sylvia A. Villarosa, providing expert guidance.
Students were organized into specialized teams responsible for search and rescue, medical assistance, evacuation, communication, security and traffic control, and firefighting, demonstrating their preparedness and effective teamwork. Guest speakers from the Bureau of Fire and Protection, FO1 Silbol and FO1 Mombay, also observed the drill
FO1 Silbol and FO1 Mombay recommended for improvement include upgrading the fire alarm system, enhancing patient treatment procedures, and ensuring proper use of fire extinguishers. This fire drill served as a valuable exercise to test the preparedness of the ICC community in the event of a real fire emergency.