Fire safety inspections expand to include schools, colleges

Fire safety inspections have been expanded to include schools and colleges, authorities said, days before the new school year opens. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) held initial inspections of schools in Manila's University Belt and downtown Sta. Cruz, Radio dzBB reported early on Wednesday. Among the schools inspected include Far Eastern University in the University Belt and the P. Gomez Elementary School in Sta. Cruz which have passed standards, BFP Metro Manila head Senior Superintendent Pablito Cordeta said. Expanded inspections aim to ensure the safety not only of students but also of teachers and school employees, he added. Last week, the BFP began inspecting boardinghouses and dormitories to ensure that these do not become fire traps for students. Meanwhile, an environmental group warned parents and community leaders against using toxic paint in cleaning up schools in time for the start of classes on June 15. - RJAB Jr., GMANews.TV