The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Bacolod City reminded Bacolodnons of ways to prevent grass fires amid the extreme heat that has caused more frequent incidents in the past two weeks.

Data provided by the BFP-Bacolod City Fire Station yesterday showed that 62 grass fires, as well as 12 rubbish fires, were recorded from April 1 to 14.

“To prevent grass fires, do not burn trash or dry leaves,” it said in a public reminder.

Those who smoke are advised to extinguish cigarettes properly.

The BFP-Bacolod also asked the public to keep matches and lighters away from grassy areas, as well as clear dry grass and debris around one’s property.

A grass fire was reported in the area of Barangay Alijis, the day before, at the Reclamation Area yesterday afternoon.

The grass fire at the boundary of Bacolod City and Talisay City on Tuesday afternoon, April 14, caused heavy smoke to spread towards Barangay Banago.

This led to the evacuation of 33 residents of the Missionaries of Charity Home of Joy, who were brought to the multipurpose gym.

The affected individuals returned home when the smoke cleared about an hour later.

The incident report of BFP-Talisay City Fire Station showed the grass fire started near the entrance gate of La Costa Brava residential resort.

The fire was caused by unattended burning rubbish, the report said.

In Negros Occidental, the heat index forecast was at 39 degrees Celsius yesterday, while on Tuesday, it was 40 degrees Celsius, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. (PNA)