Firecrackers Banned at Mayon Evacuation Centers

LEGAZPI CITY, Dec. 28- The provincial government of Albay has issued a strict policy banning all types of firecrackers inside the evacuation centers specially during the New Year celebration.

Bureau of Fire and Protection (BFP) personnel conducted a routine inspection in all evacuation centers on Monday to enforce the policy issued by Albay Governor Joey Salceda.

Aside from banning the selling of all types of fire crackers, the BFP has warned the evacuees not to cook inside the classrooms.

Albay Provincial Health Officer Luis Mendoza said that Governor Joey Salceda has a strict policy not to allow fire crackers and other fire hazards inside the evacuation centers. "The concern here is not only for possible fire accident but also any health related problems that might be brought by fire crackers during the celebration of New Year," he said.

So far, Mendoza said the health condition of evacuees is under control. "There is no reported outbreak of diseases," he noted.

"So far what we encountered are those common illnesses such as cold with cough, fever and hypertension," Mendoza said.

He added that the Department of Health (DOH) regional office has already established tent hospitals in evacuation centers at Sto. Domingo town.

"Aside from fore prevention team, our health personnel have been working 24 hours and seven days a week," Mendoza said. (PNA)