A FIRE hits Barangay 7, Bacolod City on Tuesday. (Chamber Volunteer Fire Brigade)
BACOLOD CITY – Twenty-six houses were destroyed in a fire in Purok Magnolia, Barangay 7, this city, on Tuesday, May 12.
City Fire Marshal Fire Supt. Jenny Mae Masip said the fire started at around 11:20 a.m. in the bedroom of a two-story house intended as a boarding house. She said the house was unoccupied at the time.
Initial investigation showed that the fire was caused by electrical ignition due to arcing after lights were left plugged on a loose outlet for two days.
Masip said 21 houses were totally and five were partially damaged.
The fire quickly spread and raised to second alarm due to structures made of mixed concrete and light materials.
Two individuals suffered first-degree burns and experienced high blood pressure.
Firefighters declared fire out at 11:52 a.m. Damage to property was P520,000.
Displaced residents are staying at the barangay covered court. The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) has provided initial assistance.