CDI6: FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION

Dr. MAY SAN GABRIEL-RAMONES

PRELIM COVERAGE

Introduction

Fires are as old as the Earth itself. They had long burned out of control over immense areas
but when early man first sniffed the air and smelled smoked, the opening page in the history
of fire was written.

For thousand years, people have been using fire to warm themselves, cook their food, and
soften metals so they could be hammered or cast into new and useful shapes. Both the
problems and benefits of fire quickly became evident.

The earliest finds, in Kenya and Ethiopia, date from about 1.5 million years ago. Less
equivocal evidence exists for deliberate fire use in the Paleolithic period, beginning about
500,000 years ago. Neolithic sites have yielded objects that may have been used in fire,
making drill for producing friction, heat in wood and flints for striking sparks from iron
pyrites.

A site near Nice, France has yielded evidence also that hominids uses fire even half million
years ago wherein sources of fire are assumed to be of the natural effects.

We can only guess that pre-historic people may have gained knowledge of fire from
observing things in nature. So the origin of fire before the dawn of civilization may be traced
to an erupting volcano, or a forest fire, started by lighting. No one really knows where on the
earth surface or at what stage of early history man learned how to start a fire and how to
make use of it. Yet, today, man has had fire as:

 source of warmth and light

 protection against enemies

 cause chemical changes to foodstuffs to suit man’s body structure

 provides processes for modifying chemicals into medicines

 provides heat to convert wood, metals, and bones into domestic tools or instruments for
aggression

While the application of fire has served man’s needs its careless and wanton use exact an
enormous and dreadful toll from society in life and property. Hence, man’s understanding of
fire would enable him to develop the technology of prevention and control to a considerable
advance state (Abis).

FIRE IN LEGEND AND RELIGION

In legend and religion, fire is common thing. For example, in Persian literature fire was
discovered during a fight of a hero with a dragon. A stone that the hero used as a weapon
missed the monster and struck a rock. Light shone forth and human beings saw fire for the
first time.

In Greek mythology, Prometheus was bestowed with god like powers when he stole the god’s
fire to give it to humanity. Fire has also played a central role in religion. It has been used as a
god and recognized as a symbol of home and family in many cultures. Fire has also been a
symbol of purification and of immortality and renewal, hence the lighting of flames of
remembrance.

The Temple of Vesta in Rome was an outstanding example of the importance of fire to the
Romans. Vesta was originally the goddess of the fire and her shrine was in every home.

BASIC CONCEPTS OF FIRE TECHNOLOGY

Fire has been produced by two principal methods: friction and percussion. In friction method,
friction raises the temperature of a combustible material to ignition temperature while
percussion method produces a spark to set a kindling fire.

SCIENCE OF FIRE

Fire can take a variety of forms but all involve a heat-producing chemical reaction between
some type of fuel and oxygen or a similar substance. When anything burns, heat is generated
faster than it can dissipated and this cause significant increase in temperature.

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL CHANGES

A physical change occurs when a substance remains chemically but changes in size, shape or
appearance while a chemical reaction occurs when a substance change from one type of
matter to another. The chemical change often involves the reaction of two or more substances
to form another types of compounds.

Chemical and physical change almost always involve an exchange of energy.

Fire is an exothermic chemical reaction called combustion that releases energy in the form of
heat and light.

Fire is a rapid chemical reaction that gives off energy and product of combustion that are very
different in composition. It is the heat and light that comes from the burning substances,
produces by the combustion of substances.

MODES OF COMBUSTION

Combustion is a rapid self-sustaining chemical process that yields heat and usually light. Fire
is a form of combustion. Modes of combustion are differentiated based on where the reaction
is occurring.
1. Flaming Combustion- oxidation involves fuel in the gas phase. This requires liquid or solid
fuels to be converted to gas phase or vaporized. When heated, both liquid and solid fuels will
give offvapors that mix with oxygen and can burn, producing flames.

Combustion- An exothermic chemical reaction that is self sustaining process of rapid

oxidation of a fuel that produces heat and light.

Exothermic Heat Reaction- Chemical reaction between two or more materials that changes
materials and produces heat, flames, and toxic smoke.

Endothermic Heat Reaction- Chemical reaction in which a substance absorbs heat energy.

2. Non-flaming or Smoldering Combustion- oxidation involves solid fuels particularly those

that are porous and can char, can undergo oxidation at the surface of the fuel.

Two States of Energy

1. Potential Energy- Stored energy possessed by an object that can be released in the future to
perform work

2. Kinetic Energy- The energy possessed by a moving object.

PROPERTIES OF FIRE

A. The Physical Properties

1. Specific Gravity – the ratio of the weight of a solid or liquid substance to the weight of
an equal volume of water.

2. Vapor density – the weight of a volume of pure gas composed to the volume of dry air at
the same temperature and pressure.

3. Vapor Pressure – the force exerted by the molecules on the surface of a liquid.

4. Temperature – the measure of the degree of thermal agitation of molecules.

5. Boiling Point – the constant temperature at which the vapor pressure of the liquid is
equal to the atmospheric pressure.

6. Ignition/Kindling temperature – the minimum temperature at which the substance must

be heated in order to initiate combustion.

7. Fire point – the lowest temperature of a liquid in an open container at which vapors are
evolved fast enough to support combustion.

8. Flash point – the temperature at which a flammable liquid forms a vapor-air mixture that
ignites (mixture with in the explosive range).

B. The Chemical Properties

1. Endothermic Reactions – changes whereby energy (heat) is absorbed or is added before
the reaction takes place.

2. Exothermic Reactions – those that release or give off energy (heat) thus they produce
substances with less energy than the reactants.

3. Oxidation – a chemical change that is exothermic, a change in which combustible

material (fuel) and an oxidizing agent (air), react. Example of oxidation is combustion
which is the same as actual burning (rapid oxidation)

4. Flames – flames are incandescent (very bright/glowing with intense heat) gases. It is a
combustion product and a manifestation of fire when it is in its gas-phased combustion.

Types of Flames

a. Based on Color and Completeness of Combustibility of Fuel

1. Luminous Flame – is orange-red, deposit soot at the bottom of a vessel being heated due
to incomplete combustion and has a low temperature.

2. Non-Luminous Flame – is blue, there is complete combustion of fuel and has relatively
high temperature.

b. Based on Fuel and Air Mixture

1. Premixed Flame – is exemplified by a Bunsen-type laboratory burner where hydrocarbon

(any substance containing primarily carbon and hydrogen) is thoroughly mixed with air
before reaching the flame zone.

2. Diffusion Flame – is observed when gas (fuel) alone is forced through a nozzle into the
atmosphere which diffuse in the surrounding atmosphere in order to form a flammable
mixture. The candle flame is an example of diffusion flame governed purely by
molecular diffusion, and the flame of the oxyacetylene torch.

c. Based on Smoothness

1. Laminar Flame – when a particle follows a smooth path through a gaseous flame.

2. Turbulent Flame – are those having unsteady, irregular flows. As physical size, gas
density or velocity is increased, all laminar gas flows tend to become turbulent.

ELEMENTS OF FIRE

Fire Triangle

For many years, firefighters were taught that three components were needed
for a fire to occur: oxygen, fuel, and heat. This relationship was represented by the fire
triangle. The fire triangle provides a reasonable explanation of non- flaming or smoldering
combustion.
Fire Tetrahedron

Flaming combustion is more accurately explained using thE fire tetrahedron which is
composed of the following four element oxygen, fuel, heat and a self-sustained chemical
chain reaction. Each component must be in place for a flaming combustion to occur. If heat,
fuel, or oxygen is removed from a fire, it will be extinguished (fire triangle). Flaming
combustion will cease if the self-sustained chemical chain reaction is inhibited or interrupted
(fire tetrahedron) however, the fire may continue to smolder depending on the characteristics
of the fuel.

FUELS

Fuel is the material or substance being oxidized or burned in the combustion process. In
scientific terms, the fuel in combustion is known as the reducing agent. Fuels may be organic
or inorganic. A fuel may be found in any of three states: solid, liquid or gas. For flaming
combustion to occur, fuel must be in a gaseous state. Heat is energy required to change solids
and liquids to gas.

Solid Fuels

Solid fuels have definite shape and size. Fuel gases and vapors are evolved from solid fuels
by pyrolysis (chemical decomposition of a substance through the action of heat). As solid
fuels are heated, they begin to decompose and combustible vapors are given off. If there is
sufficient fuel and heat, the process of pyrolysis generates sufficient quantities of burnable
gases to ignite in the presence of sufficient oxygen.

Solid fuel have definite shape and size. This property significantly affects whether
they are easy or difficult to ignite. The primary consideration is the surface area of the fuel in
proportion to mass called the surface-to-mass ratio.

The following are group of solid fuels:

1. Biomass – it is the name given to such replaceable organic matters like wood, garbage and
animal manure that can be used to produce energy. For example, heat produced by burning
nutshells, rice and oat hulls, and other by-products of food processing. They are often used to
operate plant equipment.

Factors affecting the combustibility of wood and wood-based products:

a. Physical form – the smaller the piece of wood, the easier it is to burn.

b. Moisture content (water content) – the freshly cut wood is more difficult to ignite and
burn than dry wood.

c. Heat conductivity - a poor conductor of heat takes a longer time to ignite than those
materials that are good conductors of heat.
d. Rate and period of heating – less flammable materials don’t easily ignite and needs direct
contact with flame than highly combustible materials.

e. Rate of combustion – with an unlimited supply of oxygen, the rate of burns increases,
and more heat is

f. produced and fuel is consumed more completely.

g. Ignition temperature – the higher the temperature, the faster it reaches ignition point and
it varies depending on the other factors above.

h. Rate of combustion – with an unlimited supply of oxygen, the rate of burns increases,
and more heat is produced and fuel is consumed more completely.

2. Fabrics and Textiles – almost all fibers and textiles are combustible. A fiber is a very fine
thin strand or thread like object. Fabrics are twisted or woven fibers. And textiles are machine
woven or knitted fabric.

Classification of Fibers

a. Natural Fibers – they come from plants (Coir – coconut fiber, Cotton – seed fiber, pulp –
wood fiber) , from animals (wool, silk, protein fibers – leather), from minerals (asbestos)

b. Synthetic/Artificial Fibers – organic fibers, cellulose fibers, cellulose acetate, non-

cellulose, and inorganic fibers like fiber glass, steel.

Factors affecting the combustibility of fibers

a. Chemical composition – natural and synthetic organic fibers are generally highly
combustible materials especially if they are dry. Mineral fibers and synthetic inorganic
fibers are normally fire resistant materials.

b. Fiber finish or coating – fiber coating combined with organic fibers are supportive to
continued burning of fabric.

c. Fabric weight – the heavier the fabric, the greater its resistance to ignition, thus delaying
its ignition.

d. Tightness of weave – the closer the fiber are woven, the smaller the space it contains, and
thus it takes a longer period to ignite it.

e. Flame retardant treatment – fabric treated with flame retardant have higher resistance to
ignition.

[Link] – plastics are included as ordinary fuels under class A except those materials of or
containing cellulose nitrate. Cellulose Nitrate is a chemical powder used in bombs, they are
also called pyroxylin.

Plastics comprise a group of materials consisting mainly of organic substances or high

molecular substances. They are solid in the finished state although at some stage of
manufacture plastics can be made to flow into a desired shape, usually through the
application of heat or pressure or both.

Liquid Fuels

Liquids have mass and volume but have no definite shape except for a flat surface. Liquids
assumed the shape of the container. When released, liquids will flow downhill and pool in
low areas.

In order to burn, liquids must be vaporized. Vaporization is transformation of a liquid to

vapor or gaseous state.

Specific Gravity- Weight of a substance compared to the weight of an equal volume of a

water at a given temperature. A specific gravity less than 1 indicates a substance lighter than
water: the specific gravity greater than 1 indicates a substance heavier than water.

Characteristics of a Liquid Fuel

a. They are matters with definite volume but no definite shape.

b. They assume the shape of their vessel because there is no free movement of molecule.
c. They are slightly compressible. They are not capable indefinite expansion, unlike gas.
Flash point is the temperature at which a liquid gives off sufficient the vapors to ignite but
not sustain combustion.

Flash point- Minimum of temperature at which a liquid gives off enough vapors to form an
ignitable mixture with air near the liquids surface.

Fire point is temperature at which sufficient vapors are being generated to sustain the
combustion reaction. Flashpoint is commonly used to indicate the flammability hazards of a
liquid.

Fire Point- Temperature at which a liquid fuel produces sufficient vapors to support
combustion once the fuel is ignited. The fire point is usually a few degrees above the flash
point.

General Group of Liquid Fuels

1. Flammable liquids- they are liquids having a flash point of 37.8° (100°F)

2. Combustible Liquids- they are liquids having a flash point at or above 37.8° (100°F)

Gaseous Fuels

Gas has mass but no definite shape. They assumed the shaped of their container. When
released from a container, it will rise or sink, depending on their density relative to air. Gases
that are lighter to air, such as methane, tend to rise. Those that are heavier than air, such as
propane tend to sink.
Characteristics of a Gas Fuel

a. They are matters that have no definite shape.

b. They compose of very tiny particles at constant random motion in a straight line.

c. Gas molecules collide against one another and against the wall of the container and are
relatively far from one another.

Vapor Density- describes the density of gases in relation to air. Air has a vapor density of 1.

Gases with a density less than 1 will rise while those having a vapor density of greater than 1
will shrink.

Classification of Gases According to Physical Properties

Compressed Gas – gas in which at all normal temperature inside its container; exist solely in
the gaseous state under pressure.

Liquefied Gas – gas, which, at normal temperature inside its container, exist partly in the
liquid state and partly in gaseous state and under pressure as long as any liquid remains in the
container.

Cryogenic Gas – a liquefied gas which exist in its container at temperature far below normal

atmospheric temperature.

Classification of Gases According to Usage

Fuel Gases – flammable gases usually used for burning with air to produce heat, utilize as
power, light, comfort, and process. Most commonly used gases are natural gas and the LPG
(butane and propane).

Industrial Gases - This group includes a large number of gases used for industrial processes
as those in welding and cutting (oxygen, acetylene); refrigeration (freon, ammonia, sulfur
dioxide); chemical processing (hydrogen, nitrogen, ammonia, chlorine); water treatment
(chlorine, fluorine).

Medical Gases – those used for treatment such as anesthesia anesthesia (chloroform, nitrous
oxide); respiratory therapy (oxygen).

HEAT

Heat is the energy transferred from one body to another when the temperatures of the bodies
are different. Heat is the common energy found most on earth. It is a kinetic energy
associated in the movement of atoms and molecules that comprise matter.

Before ignition, fuel has potential chemical energy. When the fuel burns, the chemical energy
is converted to kinetic energy in the form of heat and light.
Piloted Ignition- occurs when a mixture of fuel and oxygen encounter an external heat
(ignition source with sufficient heat energy to start combustion reaction)

Temperature is an indicator of heat and is the measure warmth or coldness of an object based
some a standard. In cases, the standard is based on of freezing and boiling points.

Auto-ignition Temperature- is the temperature to which the surface of a substance must be

heated for ignition and self-sustained combustion to occur.

Energy exists in many forms and can change from on form to another. In the study of fire
behavior, the conversion of energy into heat is particularly important because heat is the
energy component of fire tetrahedron. When a fuel is heated, temperature increases. Applying
additional its heat causes pyrolysis in solid fuels and vaporization of liquid fuels, releasing
ignitable vapors or gases.

Pyrolysis- The chemical decomposition of a substance through the action of heat.

A spark or other external source can provide the energy necessary for ignition, or the fuel be
heated until it ignites without a spark or other source.

Spontaneous Heating is a form of chemical heat energy that occurs when a material increases
in temperature without the addition of external heat.

SOURCES OF HEAT ENERGY

Chemical Heat Energy- the most common source of heat in combustion reactions. Energy is
released as a result of chemical reaction such as combustion. When any combustible is in
contact with oxygen, oxidation occurs.

Electrical heat energy can generate temperatures high enough to ignite any combustible
materials near the heated area. Energy is being developed when electrons flow through a
conductor. Electrical heating can occur in several way:

Resistance heating- When electric current flows through a conductor, heat is produced.

Overcurrent or overload- when a current flowing through a conductor exceeds its design
limits, it may overheat and present an ignition hazard. It is unintended resistance heating.

Arcing- an arc is a high temperature luminous electric discharge across a gap or througha
medium such as charred insulation.

Sparking- When an electric arc occurs,luminous particles can formed and spatter away from
the point of arcing. In electrical terms, sparking refers to this spatter while an arc is the
luminous discharge.

Mechanical heat energy is generated by friction and compression.

Nuclear heat energy is generated when atoms either split apart (fission) or combine (fusion).
In a controlled setting, fission heats water to drive steams turbines and produced electricity.
The sun energy (solar energy) is a product of fusion reaction and thus form a nuclear energy.

Heat of friction is the movement of two surfaces against each other. This movement results in
heat and/ sparks being generated.

Heat of compression is being generated when gas is compressed.

TRANSMISSION OF HEAT

Conduction is the transfer of heat within a body or to another body by the direct contact. In
other words, conduction is the heat flow through and between solids.

The transfer of energy is due to the increased activity of atoms within the object.

Convection is the transfer of heat energy by the movement of heated gases or fluid. When
heat id transferred by convection, there is a movement or circulation of a fluid (liquid or gas)
from one place to another.

In the fire environment, this usually involves transfer of heat through the movement of hot
smoke and fire gases.

Radiation is the transmission of energy as an electromagnetic such as light, waves, radio

waves, or X-rays without an intervening medium. Because it is an electromagnetic wave, the
energy travels in a straight line at a speed of a light.

All warm objects will radiate heat.

Heat Measurement

Heat of a given material is measured by its temperature. Abis (1986) states that a material is
made of up of a minute particles called molecules that are in constant motion. The
temperature of a material is the condition that determines whether it will transfer heat to or
from materials.

Celsius degree also known as Centigrade is 1/100 the difference between the temperature of
melting ice and boiling water at one atmospheric pressure. On the centigrade scale, the
melting point of an ice is 0°C and the boiling point of water is 100°C.

Fahrenheit degree is 1/100 the difference between the temperature of melting ice and boiling
water at one atmospheric pressure. On the Fahrenheit scale, the melting point of an ice is
32°F and the boiling point of water is 212°F.

Kelvin or absolute in the same scale is 273 and the boiling point of water is 373°K. There is
1/100 the difference between the temperature of melting ice and boiling water at one
atmospheric pressure.

OXIDIZING AGENT/S
The primary oxidizing agent in most fire is oxygen in the air around us. Air is consist of 21%
of oxygen. In addition to oxygen, other materials can react with fuels and they are called
oxidizers. When oxygen concentration is limited, the flaming combustion may diminished
and combustion will continue in the surface or smoldering mode.

21% normal oxygen

12% oxygen-insufficient to produce fire

14-15% oxygen- can support flash point

16-21% oxygen- can support fire point

SELF-SUSTAINED CHEMICAL REACTION

Combustion is a complex set of chemical reaction that results in the rapid oxidation of a fuel
producing heat and light and a variety of chemical by-products.

Flaming combustion is one example of a chemical reaction. Sufficient heat will cause fuel
and oxygen to form free radicals and initiate the self-sustained chemical reaction. The fire
will continue to burn until the fuel and oxygen is exhausted, an extinguishing agent is applied
in sufficient quantity to interfere on the on-going reaction.

The self-sustained chemical reaction and the related rapid growth are the factors that separate
the flaming combustion from slower oxidation reactions. Slow oxidation, such as rusting of
steel and yellowing of paper do not produce heat fast enough to reach ignition and they never
generate sufficient heat to become self-sustained.

PRODUCTS OF COMBUSTION

As fuel burns, its chemical composition changes resulting in the production of a new
substance and the release of energy. In fire, this energy is in the form of heat and light.

The heat generated during a fir is one product of combustion that helps to spread the fire by
preheating adjacent fuels and making them more susceptible to ignition.

Heat. It is a form of energy that is measured in degrees of temperature to signify its intensity.
The following are the dangers of heat:

Heat is the product of combustion that is responsible for the spread of fire.

It is also the direct cause of burns, dehydration, heat exhaustion and injury to the respiratory
tract and destruction of property.

Flame. It is the visible, luminous body of a burning gas. When the burning gas is mixed with
the proper amount of oxygen, the flame becomes hotter and less luminous.

Smoke. It is encountered at most fires, consists of a mixture of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon

dioxide, carbon monoxide, finely divided that have been released from the material involved.
Fire Gases. Refers to those gases that remain when the product of combustion are cooled
below normal temperature. Gases formed by a fire depends on many variables among which
are: (Abis, 1986)

The chemical composition of the burning materials.

The amount of oxygen available for combustion.

The temperature.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a byproduct of the incomplete combustion of organic (carbon

containing) materials. This gas is probably the most common product of combustion
encountered in structure fire. Exposure to it is frequently identified as the cause of death for
civilian fatalities and firefighter. Carbon monoxide act as a chemical asphyxia.

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a product of complete combustion of organic materials. It is not

toxic in the same manner as carbon monoxide or hydrogen cyanide, it acts as simple
asphyxiant by displacing oxygen. CO₂also acts as respirator stimulant, increasing respiratory
rate.

Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is produced in the combustion of materials containing nitrogen.

HCN acts as chemical and acts to prevent the body from using oxygen.

Hydrogen Sulfide. When materials like rubber, skin, hides, wool, hair, silk and meat are
burned one of the products formed is hydrogen sulfide. This colorless, highly toxic gas smell
like rotten eggs.

Sulfur Dioxide. This colorless gas with irritating, suffocating odor is formed when sulfur and
sulfur containing organic substance like wood, rubber, wool and silk are burned. Sulfur
dioxide causes the eyes to be watery and is irritating to the respiratory tract.

Hydrogen Chloride. Chloride containing plastic materials will produce hydrogen chloride
when burned.

Nitrogen Dioxide. The reddish-brown gas nitrogen dioxide is produced during the
decomposition and combustion of cellulose nitrate, ammonium nitrate and other inorganic
nitrates. It is also formed when nitric acid comes in contact with metals or combustible
materials.

Acrolein. It is highly irritating and toxic gas produced when petroleum products, fats, oils and
other common substances undergo combustion.

Ashes and embers. It is a by-product of some classes of fire;

class A always leaves ashes and embers,

whereas Class C may only leave small amount

Class B never leaves

CLASSIFICATION OF FIRES

Based on Cause

1. Natural causes

A. Spontaneous heating

the automatic chemical reaction that results to spontaneous combustion due to auto-ignition
of organic materials, the gradual rising of heat in a confined space until ignition temperature
is reached.

[Link]

a form of static electricity; a natural current with a great magnitude, producing tremendous
amperage and voltage. Lightning usually strikes objects that are better electrical conductors
than air.

It can cause fire directly or indirectly. Indirectly when it strikes telephone and other
transmission lines, causing an induced line surge. It can also cause flash fire or dust
explosion. When lightning strikes steel or metal rod covered with dust, the dust will suddenly
burn thus resulting to an explosion.

A lightning may be in the form of:

Hot Bolt – longer in duration; capable only of igniting combustible materials

Cold Bolt – shorter in duration, capable of splintering a property or literally blowing apart an
entire structure, produces electrical current with tremendous amperage and very high
temperature.

Radiation of Sunlight

When sunlight hits a concave mirror, concentrating the light on a combustible material
thereby igniting it.

Accidental Causes

Electrical accidents in the form of:

Short Circuit – unusual or accidental connections between two points at different potentials
(charge) in an electrical circuit of relatively low resistance.

Arcing – the production of sustained luminous electrical discharge between separated

electrodes; an electric hazard that results when electrical current crosses the gap between two
electrical conductors.

Sparking – production of incandescent particles when two different potentials (charged

conductors) come in contact; occurs during short circuits or welding operations.
Induced Current – induced line surge – increased electrical energy flow or power voltage;
induced current; sudden increase of electrical current resulting to the burning of insulating
materials, explosion of the fuse box, or burning of electrical appliances.

Overheating of electrical appliances – the increase or rising of amperage while electric

current is flowing in a transmission line resulting to the damage or destruction of insulating
materials, maybe gradual or rapid, internal or external.

Purely accidental causes

Negligence and other forms of human error

Intentional causes (Incendiary)

If in the burned property, there are preparations or traces of accelerant, plants and trailers,
then the cause of fire is intentional.

Accelerant – highly flammable chemicals that are used to facilitate flame propagation.

Plant – the preparation and or gathering of combustible materials needed to start a fire.

Trailer – the preparation of flammable substances in order to spread the fire.

THE CLASSES OF FIRE BASED ON BURNING FUEL

CLASS A- involves combustible materials such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, grass and
many plastics. The primary mechanism of extinguishment when dealing with Class A fires is
cooling to reduce the temperature of the fuel to slow or stop the released of pyrolysis
products.

CLASS B- fires involves flammable and combustible liquids and gases such as gasoline, oil,
paint and alcohol. Class B fires can be extinguished by shutting off the gas supply. Fires in
Class B liquids can be extinguish by applying foam or by dry chemical agents.

CLASS C- involves energized electrical equipment. Electricity does not burn so the actual
fuel in Class C is usually the insulator on wiring(Class A) or lubricants (Class B). When
possible de-energized involved electrical equipment before beginning extinguishment efforts.

CLASS D- fires involves combustible metals such as aluminum, magnesium, potassium,

sodium, titanium and zirconium. These materials are particularly hazardous in their powdered
form. The extremely high temperature of some burning metals makes water reactive and
other common extinguishing agents ineffective.

CLASS K- involves oil and greases normally found in commercial kitchen and food
preparation facilities using deep fryers. These fire required extinguishing agent specially
formulated for the materials involve. Through the process known as saponification, these
agents turn fats and oils into a soapy foam that extinguished the fire.

FIRE
a rapid, self-sustaining oxidation process accompanied by the evolution of heat and light of
varying intensity

an active chemical reaction that takes place between fuel, heat and oxygen in the form of
light and noticeable heat

a chemical reaction; the rapid oxidation of a fuel producing heat and light

an oxidation taking place with a rate rapid enough to produce heat and light

TECHNOLOGY

the branch of knowledge that deals with industrial arts and sciences

the application of such knowledge that is used to produce the material necessity of society

ELEMENTS OF FIRE OR TRIANGLE OF FIRE FUEL

anything that will burn when heated with sufficient oxygen

OXYGEN

aids in combustion; comes from the atmosphere we breath; the atmosphere contains: 21%
oxygen, 78% nitrogen and 1% impurities

source of ignition

TRIANGLE OF FIRE

For many years, the fire triangle (oxygen, fuel and heat) was taught as the components of fire.
While this simple example is useful, it is NOT technically correct.

TETRAHEDRON OF FIRE

a geometric representation of what is required for fire to exist, namely, fuel, an oxidizing
agent, heat, and an uninhibited chemical reaction

Oxygen (oxidizing agent)

Fuel

Each component of the tetrahedron must be in place for combustion to occur. Remove one of
the four components and combustion will not occur. If ignition has already occurred, the fire
is extinguished when one of the components is removed from the reaction.

a colorless, odorless gas and one of the compositions of air which is approximately 21%
percent by volume

Oxygen sources: Oxygen requirements:

21% of normal oxygen 1. 12% no fire

78% nitrogen 2. 14% flash point

1% other gases 3. 21% fire point

- the material or substance being oxidized or burned in the combustion process.

Fuel sources

Solid

molecules are closely packed together

Liquid

molecules are loosely packed

Gas

molecules are free to move

the energy component of the fire tetrahedron

when heat comes into contact with a fuel, the energy supports the combustion reaction

heat energy is measured in units of Joules (J), however it can also be measured in Calories (1
Calorie = 4.184 J) and BTU's (1 BTU = 1055 J)

TEMPERATURE

a measure of the degree of molecular activity of a material compared to a reference point

measured in degrees Farenheit or degrees Celsius

Types of Energy (common sources of heat)

Chemical Energy

Electrical Energy

Nuclear Energy

Mechanical Energy

the most common source of heat in combustion reactions

When any combustible is in contact with oxygen, oxidation occurs. The reaction of this
process results in the production of heat.

ex. Heat generated from burning match, self heating (spontaneous heating)

can generate temperature high enough to ignite any combustible material near the heated area

Examples:
over current or overload

arcing

sparking

static

lightning

generated when atoms either split apart (fission) or combine (fusion)

Example:

fission heats water to drive steam turbines and produce electricity

solar energy is a product of a fusion or reaction

an energy created by friction and compression

Heat of friction - the movement of two surfaces against each other, thus producing sparks

Heat of compression - heat is generated when a gas is compressed in a container or cylinder

Combustion is a complex reaction that requires a fuel (in the gaseous or vapor state), an
oxidizer, and heat energy to come together in a very specific way. Once flaming combustion
or fire occurs, it can only continue when enough heat energy is produced to cause the
continued development of fuel vapors or gases. Scientists call this type of reaction a “chain
reaction”.

A chain reaction is a series of reactions that occur in sequence with the result of each
individual reaction being added to the rest.

FIRE DEVELOPMENT

When the four components of the fire tetrahedron come together, ignition occurs. For a fire to
grow beyond the first material ignited, heat must be transmitted beyond the first material to
additional fuel packages.

Stages of Fire

Ignition

Growth

Flashover

Fully-developed

Decay
describes the period when the four elements of the fire tetrahedron come together and
combustion begins

shortly after ignition, a fire plume begins to form above the burning fuel. As the plume
develops, it begins to draw or entrain air from the surrounding space into the column.

-the transition between the growth and the fully developed fire stages and is not a specific
event such as ignition. During flashover, conditions in the compartment change very rapidly
as the fire changes from one that is dominated by the burning of the materials first ignited to
one that involves all of the exposed combustible surfaces within the compartment

occurs when all combustible materials in the compartment are involved in the fire

as the fire consumes the available fuel in the compartment, the rate of heat released begins to
decline.

THREE (3) STAGES OF FIRE

Incipient phase

Free burning phase

Smoldering

INCIPIENT STAGE

initial stage of fire

Characteristics

normal room temperature

oxygen plentiful

thermal updraft rise accumulates at higher point

temperature at 1000 F

Producing C02, CO, SO2, water and other gases

a phase of burning in which materials or structures are burning in the presence of adequate
oxygen

fire has involved more fuel

oxygen supply has depleted

heat accumulates at upper area

temperature exceeds 1,330 F

area is fully involved

SMOLDERING PHASE

final phase of burning wherein flame ceases but dense smoke and heat completely fill the
confined room

MODES OF HEAT TRANSFER

Heat is by-product of combustion that is of significant importance to the firefighter. It is heat

that causes fire to sustain its combustion and, more important, to extend. When heat given off
as a product of combustion is exposed to an unheated substance, certain changes occur that
can make the new substance a contributing factor in extending a fire.

CONDUCTION

heat transfer within solids or between contacting solids

When a hot object transfers its heat, conduction has taken place. The transfer could be to
another object or to another portion of the same object. As we have discovered and will be
constantly reinforced about, combustion occurs on the molecular level. When an object heats
up, the atoms become agitated and begin to collide with one another. A chain reaction of
molecules and atoms, like wave energy, occurs and causes the agitated molecules to pass the
heat energy to areas of non-heat.

CONVECTION

heat transfer by the movement of liquids or gasses

Air that is hotter than its surroundings rises. Air that is cooler than its surroundings sinks. Air
is made up of many molecules floating about freely. Even so, it still has weight. Some
molecules are made up of the same element. For example, oxygen in its natural state will
combine with another oxygen atom to form a stable oxygen molecule. In a given volume, air
at a given temperature will have the same density. When heated, as in conduction theory, the
molecules become agitated and begin to collide with one another. In the process, the
molecules are demanding more space to accommodate the vibrations and they push into one
another as they seek that space. When that happens, the density of a given volume is reduced
and it weighs less. Because it weighs less, it rises until it reaches equilibrium-the level at
which the weight is the same as the surrounding atmosphere.

RADIATION

heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

The last form of heat transfer occurs by radiation. As we have already seen, heat energy can
be transmitted directly when molecules collide with one another and cause the waves of heat
energy to travel.

FLAME CONTACT

- heat may be conducted from one body to another by direct flame contact
Physical properties

Chemical Properties

Specific gravity

the ratio of the weight of a solid or substance to the weight of an equal volume of water

Vapor density

the weight of volume of pure gas compared to weight of a volume of dry air at the same
temperature and pressure

Vapor pressure

the force exerted by the molecules on the surface of the liquid at the equilibrium

the measure of the thermal degree of the agitation of molecules of a given substance; the
measure of the molecular activity within the substance

Boiling Point

the constant temperature at which the vapor pressure of the liquid is equal to the atmospheric
pressure

Ignition temperature

the minimum temperature to which the substance in the air must be heated in order to initiate
or cause self-contained combustion without addition of heat from outside sources

Fire point

the temperature at which the material will give off ample vapors to keep burning

Flash point

the temperature at which the material is not hot enough to keep burning, but still gives off
enough vapors to cause a flame across the surface

Endothermic reaction

are changes whereby energy is absorbed or is added before the reaction takes place

Exothermic reaction

reactions or changes that releases or give off energy

Oxidation

a chemical change in which combustible material and an oxidizing material react

Combustion or flame
the manifestation of fire is in its gas-phased combustion; matter that is produced by fire.

CLASSIFICATIONS OF FIRE

Natural fire/ providential

Accidental fire

Intentional Fire/Incendiary

Undetermined

NATURAL FIRE

involves fires without direct human intervention

Earthquake

Typhoon

Spontaneous combustion arising from the storage of combustible materials in poorly

ventilated places

Explosion from petroleum products, alcohol and other substances

Sun rays focused on glasses which may serve as a convex lens

Carelessly discarded cigarettes

Careless disposition of readily combustible materials poorly managed or defective

heating facilities

Overheating, spark and electrical defects

Overload electriccircuits/ Octopus connections

Children playing matches

Use of candles

INCENDIARY FIRE

is one deliberately set under circumstances in which the person knows that the fire should not
be set

UNDETERMINED FIRE CAUSE

whenever the cause cannot be proven, the proper classification is undetermined

BASED ON BURNING FUEL

CLASS A
ordinary solid materials such as wood, paper, fabrics, etc.

this will be indicated by deep cited fire, leaves ashes and embers (glowing coals) after
burning

CLASS B

flammable liquids such as gasoline, lube oil, kerosene, paint thinner, etc.

CLASS C

electrical appliances; causes electric shock

CLASS D

metal fire such as magnesium (white element burning with dazzling light), sodium (a silver
white metallic element), etc.; creates violent reaction

CLASS E

flammable gases such as LPG, LNG, etc.; also creates violent reaction

Fire Classes in the United Kingdom and Europe

A – ordinary combustibles

B – flammable or flammable liquids

C – flammable gasses

D – combustible metals

E – (this class is no longer existing in Europe)

F – cooking oils and fats

Fire Classes in Australia and Asia

A – everyday combustiblesB – combustible or combustible liquids

C – combustible gasses

E – electrical equipment

F – cooking fats and oils

Fire Classes in the U.S.A. (NFPA)

A – regular combustibles

B – flammable liquids and gasses

C – electrical appliances
D – combustible metals K – cooking oils and fats

FIRE EXTINGUISHMENT EXTINGUISHING AGENT

Class A – water (all agents)

Class B – foam/carbon dioxide (all agents)

Class C – carbon dioxide/powder (never use water, soda acid and foam)

Class D – special powder

Class E – all agents

METHODS OF EXTINGUISHMENT

COOLING – heat absorption.

SEPARATION – the removal of the fuel.

SMOTHERING – by expelling oxygen

Inhibition or the interruption of chemical chain reaction

Strategies Used in Firefighting:

Locate the fire

Confine the fire

Extinguish the fire

Exposures

Factors to Consider in Extinguishment:

Time

Weather (temperature, humidity, wind)

Fire ( ex. Extent, location, bldg construction, contents involved)

Occupancy

Ventilation (used for clearing the bldg of smoke and gases)

Types of Ventilation:

Vertical ventilation - must be worked from the top to bottom

Cross or horizontal ventilation - used if gases have not reached the higher level through the
opening of windows
Mechanical force ventilation - a method whereby a device such as smokeejector is utilized to
remove faster excessive heat and dense smoke.

Factors to determine the location for the opening:

Location of intensity of fire

Highest point on the roof

Direction of wind

Existing exposure

Extent of fire

Obstruction

ADDITIONAL BASICTACTICS USED IN EXTINGUISHING FIRE

RESCUE - any action taken by the firefighters to remove occupants/ persons from building/
hazards to a safety place

OVERHAUL - a complete and detailed checked of the structures and materials involved in
the fire to make sure that every spark and ember has been extinguished and to have assurance
against re-ignition

SALVAGE - an action taken by the firefighters in preventing excessive damage by fire, water
with the use of salvage cover or by removing materials out from the burning building

Types of ladder

Ground ladders (10 to 55 ft. long)

Aerial ladders

Purposes of ladders

for rescue

to stretch line into a fire building

to provide ventilation by giving access to places that are hard to reach

Forms of ground ladders

Wall

Extension

Hook or straight ladder

Attic ladder
LADDER TERMINOLOGY

Bed ladder - the lowest section of an extension ladder

Fly ladder - the top section of an extension ladder

Butt - the bottom end of a ladder

Heel - the part of the ladder that touches the ground

Halyard - a rope or cable used to raised the fly ladder

Pawl or dog - the mechanism located at the end of the fly ladder that locks to the bed ladder

Rung - the cross member of the ladder that is used for climbing

Top or tip - it is the top part of the ladder

Hooks - part of a ladder that is used to hook over a roof peak, sills, or walls where the heel
does not rest on a foundation. (roof type ladders)

Stops - made of metal or wood blocks used to prevent the fly of an extension ladder from
extending out further from the ladder

Guides - light metal strips of an extension ladder that guides the fly ladder while it is being
raised or lowered

ARSON INVESTIGATIVE GUIDE AND PROCEDURES

ARSON

the willful and malicious burning of all kinds of buildings and structures including personal
properties

INVESTIGATION

an art that deals with the identity and location of the offender and provides evidence of his
guilt in criminal proceedings

ELEMENTS OF ARSON

Actual burning took place

Actual burning is done with malicious intent

The actual burning is done by person(s) legally and criminally liable

LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE

The law on arson in the Philippines is covered by Articles 320 to 326 of the Revised Penal
Code, as amended by PD No. 1613, PD No. 1744, and Sec. 50 Rule VIII IRR of RA 6975
which provides that the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) shall have the power to investigate
all causes of fires and, if necessary, file the proper complaint with the City/Provincial
prosecutor who has jurisdiction over arson cases.

LAWS ON ARSON

Article 320 – 326 of the Revised Penal CodeHalyard - a rope or cable used to raised the fly
ladder

Article 320 – 326 of the Revised Penal Codedefines arson, its forms and penalties

PD 1613 – the law amending the law on arson

defining the prima facie evidence of arson

RA 7659

An Act to Impose Death Penalty on Certain Heinous Crimes, amending for that purpose the
Revised Penal Code as amended, other special laws, and for other purposes

RA 6975 Sec. 54

provides that the Fire Bureau shall have the power to investigate all causes of fires and if
necessary file the proper complaint with the City/Provincial Prosecutor who has jurisdiction
over the case

What Constitutes Arson?

Burning

Willfulness – means intentional and implies that the act was done purposely and intentionally

Malice – denotes hatred or ill will or a desire for revenge; deliberate intention of doing
unjustified harm for the satisfaction of doing it

Motive – the moving cause which induces the commission of a crime; something that leads or
influences a person to do something

Intent – the purpose or design with which the act is done and involves the will; an essential
element of crime, motive is not

Why is arson very hard to investigate?

Arson is one of the most difficult offenses to investigate because the arsonist can be able to
set a fire and escape undetected. The fire can consume the scene and destroy much physical
evidence of the offense. Harder forms of evidence are often buried in debris and grossly
altered in appearance.

What Constitutes Burning?

The mere fact that a building is scorched or discolored by heat is not

sufficient nor will bare intention or even an attempt to burn a house amount to arson, if no
part of it is [Link], if there is actual ignition of any part of the building, arson is
committed,

although there be no flame or the fire immediately goes out of itself.

To burn means to consume by fire and in the case of arson, if the wood is blackened but no
fibers are wasted, there is no burning, yet the wood need not be in flame or blaze, and the
burning of any part, however, small is sufficient to constitute arson, and if the house is
charred in a single place so as to destroy the fibers of the wood, it is sufficient to constitute
arson.

What is Attempted Arson?

In attempted arson, it is not necessary that there be a fire before the crime is

committed. No hard and fast rule is laid down by the law as to the requirements for attempted
arson. The peculiar facts and circumstances of a particular case should carry more weight in
the decision of the case. Thus, a person intending to burn a wooden structure, collects some
rags, soaks them in gasoline and places them beside the wooden wall of the building. When
he is about to light a match to set fire to the rags, he is discovered by another who chases him
away.

The crime committed is attempted arson, because the offender begins the commission of the
crime directly by

overacts (placing the rags soaked in gasoline beside the wooden wall of the building and
lighting a match) but he does not perform all the acts of execution (the setting of the fire to
the rags) due to the timely intervention of another who chases away) the offender.

What is Frustrated Arson?

In frustrated arson, the fact of having set fire to some rags and jute sacks soaked

in kerosene oil and placed near the partition of the entire soil of an inhabited house, should
not be qualified as a consummated arson, in as much as no part of the house had begun to
burn, although fire would have started in the said partition had it not been extinguished on
time. The crime committed was frustrated [Link] is Consummated Arson?

The offender did in fact set fire to the roof of the house and said house was

partially burned. The crime was consummated arson, notwithstanding the fact that the fire
afterwards extinguished for once it has been started, the consummation of the crime of arson
does not depend upon the extent of the damage caused.

Setting fire to the contents of a building constitutes the consummated crime of setting fire to a
building even if no part

of the building was burned.

Basis of Liability in Arson:

Kind and character of the building, whether of public or private ownership.

Its location, whether in an uninhabited place or in a populated place.

Extent of damage caused; and

The fact of its being inhabited or not.

Some of the Arson Evidence that the Investigator should seek at the Fire scene are the
following:

Unusually rapid spread of the fire.

Where it originated?

Separate fires – when two or more separate fires break-out within a building, the fire is
certainly suspicious.

Unusual odors – the odor of gasoline, alcohol, kerosene and other inflammable liquids are
indicated by their characteristics and oftentimes, arsonists are trapped because of this tell tale
signs.

Objects that appear to be foreign to the scene such as cans, candles, matches, explosives,
electrical appliances such as irons, heating elements, clocks, radios, flammables, trailers, etc.

Charring pattern may indicate fire characteristics. The fact that the fire feeds on combustible
while propagating itself, indicates that the char will generally be deepest from where the fire
originates. When a fire is extinguished quickly, the charring is only slightly below the
surface. Fire burning for a longer period of time will indicate a char that is deep and
pronounced. These facts are most apparent in the charring of wood as a fire burns. The
charringfrom fire on woods looks like the hide of a black alligator. Fire extinguished quickly
on wood will show a large alligatoring pattern that has not penetrate the wood to any extent.
Fire burning for a long period of time on wood will show small alligatoring pattern but the
char will go deep into the wood. The direction of fire can also be taken into consideration
with charring. The exposed side of combustible will have a deeper char than the unexposed
side.

Evidence of forcible entry or lack of same may be important depending on the circumstances
at the time of the fire. If the investigator determines there was no forcible entry and finds that
the building was secured prior to discovery of the fire, he can reasonably suspect there is
possibility that the person who sets the fire entered the building with a key. Doors and
windows showing signs of forced entry may point to arson preceded by burglary or arson by
someone without a key to the premises.

Motives of Arson

Motive
Motive is the moving cause which induces a person to commit a crime.

Is Motive Necessary to be Proven in Criminal Proceedings?

No. motive is not necessary to be proven in criminal proceedings but once motive is shown,
then intent can easily

established.

In the crime of arson, the distinction between motive and intent is clearly

defined. INTENT is a material element of arson while motive is not. INTENT is the purpose
of design with which the act is done and involves the will while MOTIVE is what induces the
criminal.

Motive Can Be Established By:

Economic Gain

Insurance fraud with the assured directly benefiting:

Desire to move

the premises may no longer be desirable because of the condition of the building, the fact that
the quarters are outgrown or because of the locality.

Disposing of Merchandisethe stocks on hand may have lost value by reason of the seasonal
nature of the business, obsolesce, scarcity of materials necessary to complete the contracts,
overstock in the absence of expected order or a changing market.

Property Transaction

the business itself may no longer be desirable because of impending liquidation,

settlement of an estate of which it is a part, the need for cash, prospective failure, the
comparatively greater value of the land, or the comparatively greater value of the insurance
benefits.

Profit by the Perpetrator other than the assured:

Insurance agents wishing business

Insurance adjusters desiring to adjust a loss by securing a contract

Business competitors

Persons seeking jobs as protection personnel

Salvagers

Contractors wishing to rebuild or wreck

Concealment of Crime:

the arsonists may set fire to a building in order to conceal a

projected or past crime. He may wish to divert attention in order to loot the burning premises
or steal in other places. The burning may be for the purpose of destroying evidences.

Punitive Measure:

An arsonists may use fire as a means of punishing another person for reason of jealousy,
hatred or revenge.

Intimidation or Economic Disabling:

The fire may be used as a weapon of the saboteurs, the strikers or the racketeers to intimidate
or to disable economically as a step toward forcing submission to certain demands.

Pyromania

is the uncontrollable impulse of a person to burn anything without motivation. Pyromaniacs

usually do not run away from the scene of the crime, usually alone and feel satisfied watching
the flame

Types of Pyromaniacs:

Abnormal Youth – Epileptics, imbeciles and morons may set fire without knowing the
seriousness of the act.

The Hero Type – a person may set fire on a building, subsequently pretends to discover it and
turn in the alarm so that he will appear a hero to the public. A person may burn a building and
endeavor to achieve spectacular rescue in order to attract the attention of spectators.

Alcoholics and Drug Addicts – persons who subject themselves to intense artificial stimulants
such as narcotics sometimes develop a strong urge toward incendiaries.

Sexual Deviates – some sex perverts derive sexual stimulation from setting a fire and
watching the flame. Frequently, he is chronic masturbator who stimulates and enhances his
sexual gratification by means of arson.

Public Disturbance

an offender may resort to arson as a means of a public disturbance because a fire attracts
people and destruction causes confusion that gives rise to attendant problems that divert
police attention.

Vandalism

is a general term denoting intentional burning to destroy properties.

In determining motive, a fire investigator concentrates on three major factors:

Points of origin of the fire

Modus operandi of the arsonist

Identify of persons who might benefits from the fire.

Incendiary Materials

- materials used to start a fire; combustible fuels

Arson Chemicals (liquids) – are incendiary materials often used by arsonists as accelerants.
Posses excellent properties. Examples: alcohol, benzene, petroleum ether, gasoline, kerosene,
naptha, turpentine.

Gases as acetylene, butane, CO, ethylene, hydrogen, natural gas, propane, these are common
gases resulting in fires from explosion. These when mix with air possess excellent in ignition
properties and when present in an enclosed area can lead to explosion.

Solids as chlorates, perchlorates, chromates, bichromates, nitrates, permanganates – are

typical families of oxidizing agents which give off oxygen on decomposition thus aiding in
combustion.

FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Republic Act No. 9514

Approved on December 19, 2008

Repealed PD 1185

known as the "Revised Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008".

Definition of terms

Abatement - Any act that would remove or neutralize a fire hazard.

Administrator - Any person who acts as agent of the owner and manages the use of a building
for him.

Blasting Agent - Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer used to set off
explosives.

Cellulose Nitrate Or Nitro Cellulose - A highly combustible and explosive compound

produced by the reaction of nitric acid with a cellulose material.

Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin) - Any plastic substance, materials or compound having
cellulose nitrate (nitro cellulose) as base.

Combustible, Flammable or Inflammable - Descriptive of materials that are easily set on fire.
Combustible Fiber - Any readily ignitable and free burning fiber such as cotton, oakum, rags,
waste cloth, waste paper, kapok, hay, straw,

Spanish moss, excelsior and other similar materials commonly used in commerce.

Combustible Liquid - Any liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8_C (100_F).

Corrosive Liquid - Any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organic matter or with
certain chemicals.

Curtain Board - A vertical panel of non- combustible or fire resistive materials attached to
and extending below the bottom chord of the roof trusses, to divide the underside of the roof
into separate compartments so that heat and smoke will be directed upwards to a roof vent.

Cryogenic - Descriptive of any material which by its nature or as a result of its reaction with
other elements produces a rapid drop in temperature of the immediate surroundings.

Damper - A normally open device installed inside an air duct system which automatically
closes to restrict the passage of smoke or fire.

Distillation - The process of first raising the temperature in separate the more volatile from
the less volatile parts and then cooling and condensing the resulting vapor so as to produce a
nearly purified substance.

Duct System - A continuous passageway for the transmission of air.

Dust - A finely powdered substance which, when mixed with air in the proper proportion and
ignited will cause an explosion.

Electrical Arc - An extremely hot luminous bridge formed by passage of an electric current
across a space between two conductors or terminals due to the incandescence of the
conducting vapor.

Ember - A hot piece or lump that remains after a material has partially burned, and is still
oxidizing without the manifestation of flames.

Finishes - Materials used as final coating of a surface for ornamental or protective purposes.

Fire - The active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of combustionFire
Trap - A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it lacks
adequate exits or fire escapes.

Fire Alarm - Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or system to warm the
occupants of the building or fire fighting elements of the presence or danger of fire to enable
them to undertake immediate action to save life and property and to suppress the fire.

Fire Door - A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire separation walls or partitions.
Fire Hazard - Any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase in the
probability of the occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with
fire fighting operations and the safeguarding of life and property.

Fire Lane - The portion of a roadway or public way that should be kept opened and
unobstructed at all times for the expedient operation of fire fighting units.

Fire Protective And Fire Safety Device - Any device intended for the protection of buildings
or persons to include but not limited to built-in protection system such as sprinklers and other
automatic extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and combustion products and other
warning system components, personal protective equipment such as fire blankets, helmets,
fire suits, gloves and other garments that may be put on or worn by persons to protect
themselves during fire.

Fire Safety Constructions - Refers to design and installation of walls, barriers, doors,
windows, vents, means of egress, etc. integral to and incorporated into a building or structure
in order to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic before the building is
evacuated. These features are also designed to achieve, among others, safe and rapid
evacuation of people through means of egress sealed from smoke or fire, the confinement of
fire or smoke in the room or floor of origin and delay their spread to other parts of the
building by means of smoke sealed and fire resistant doors, walls and floors. It shall also
mean to include the treatment of buildings components or contents with flame retardant
chemicals.

Flash Point - The minimum temperature at which any material gives off vapor in sufficient
concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air.

Forcing -A process where a piece of metal is heated prior to changing its shape or
dimensions.

Fulminate - A kind of stable explosive compound which explodes by percussion.

Hazardous Operation/Process - Any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion, etc., that

uses or produces materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions.

Horizontal Exit - Passageway from one building to another or through or around a wall in
approximately the same floor level.

Hose Box - A box or cabinet where fire hoses, valves and other equipment are stored and
arranged for fire fighting.

Hose Reel - A cylindrical device turning on an axis around which a fire hose is wound and
connected.

Hypergolic Fuel - A rocket or liquid propellant which consists of combinations of fuels and
oxidizers which ignite spontaneously on contact with each other.
Industrial Baking And Drying - The industrial process of subjecting materials to heat for the
purpose of removing solvents or moisture from the same, and/or to fuse certain chemical salts
to form a uniform glazing the surface of materials being treated.

Jumper - A piece of metal or an electrical conductor used to bypass a safety device in an

electrical system.

Occupancy - The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is used or intended to be
used.

Occupant - Any person actually occupying and using a building or portions thereof by virtue
of a lease contract with the owner or administrator or by permission or sufferance of the
latter.

Organic Peroxide - A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen readily. It
causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under conditions of
highOrganic Peroxide - A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen readily.
It causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under conditions of high
temperatureOverloading - The use of one or more electrical appliances or devices which draw
or consume electrical current beyond the designed capacity of the existing electrical system.

Owner - The person who holds the legal right of possession or title to a building or real
property.

Oxidizing Material - A material that readily yields oxygen in quantities sufficient to stimulate
or support combustion.

Pressurized Or Forced Draft Burning Equipment

- Type or burner where the fuel is subjected to pressure prior to discharge into the combustion
chamber and/or which includes fans or other provisions for the introduction of air at above
normal atmosphere pressure into the same combustion chamber.

Public Assembly Building - Any building or structure where fifty (50) or more people
congregate, gather, or assemble for any purpose.

Public Way - Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed from the ground to the sky,
deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for public use.

Pyrophoric - Descriptive of any substance that ignites spontaneously when exposed to air.

Refining - A process where impurities and/or deleterious materials are removed from a
mixture in order to produce a pure element of compound. It shall also refer to partial
distillation and electrolysis.

Self-Closing Doors - Automatic closing doors that are designed to confine smoke and heat
and delay the spread of fire.
Smelting - Melting or fusing of metallic ores or compounds so as to separate impurities from
pure metals.

Sprinkler System - An integrated network of hydraulically designed piping installed in a

building, structure or area with outlets arranged in a systematic pattern which automatically
discharges water when activated by heat or combustion products from a fire.

Standpipe System - A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can be
attachedon each floor, including a system by which water is made available to the outlets as
needed.

Vestibule - A passage hall or antechamber between the outer doors and the interior parts of a
house or building.

Vertical Shaft - An enclosed vertical space of passage that extends from floor to floor, as well
as from the base to the top of the building.

Collection of Liquid Samples for Accelerant Testing

Liquid accelerants may be collected with

New syringe

Siphoning device

Evidence container itself

Sterilize cotton balls or gauge pads may also be used to absorbed the liquid

Where liquid accelerants are believed to have become trapped in porous materials such as
concrete floor:

Lime

Diatomaceous earth

flour

Collection of liquid evidence absorbed by solid materials including soils and sand:

Scooping

Sawing

Scraping

Core drilling

Collecting of Solid samples for accelerant testing Solid accelerant may be common
household materials and compounds or dangerous chemicals. When collecting solid
accelerants:
The fire investigator must ensure that the solid accelerant is maintained in physical state in
which is found

Some incendiary materials remain Corrosive and Reactive

Ensure the corrosive nature of these residue does not attack the packaging container

Collection of Gaseous samples Method of Collection:

Use of commercially available mechanical sampling device

Utilization evacuated air sampling cans. These cans are specifically designed for taking
gaseous samples

Use of clean glass bottled filled with distilled water. Distilled water use as it

has had most of the impurities removed from it. This method simply require the investigator
poured the distilled water out of its bottle in the atmosphere to be sampled. As distilled water
leaves the bottle it is replaced by the gaseous sample

Guide on Interpreting the Damage on Electrical Wire

Collection of Electrical Equipments and Components

Before wires are cut, a photograph should be taken of the wires, and the both ends of the wire
should be tagged and cut so that they can be identified as one of the following:

The device or appliance to which it was attached or from which it was severed

The circuit breaker or fuse number or location to which the wire was attached or from which
it was severed

The wire’s path or the route it took between the device and the circuit protector,

electrical switches, receptacles, thermostats, relays, junction boxes, electrical distribution

panels, and similar equipment and components are often collected as physical evidence.

DEFINITION OF TERMS IN FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION

Accelerant refers to any material used to initiate or promote the spread of a fire. They are
usually in the form of flammable or combustible fluids. It can be a solid, liquid or in some
instances, a gas.

Adiabatic flame temperature theoretically, the highest temperature at which a fuel can burn.

Area of origin the area where a fire [Link] term is used when a fire originates in a large
area or when the exact point of origin can not be determined.

Arson a criminal act of setting fire to a building or other property on purpose.

Arson trail the use of various types of materials such as cloth rags, newspapers, or wood that
have some type pf flammable liquid poured on the material by which the fire can travel
[Link] trail can leave a distinct mark on the floor of a fire scene.

Asbestos a white or light-gray mineral, obtained primarily from actinolite and amphibole,
occurring in long slender needles or fibrous masses that may be woven or shaped into acid-
resisting,non- conducting,and fire proof articles.

Atomize to break into discrete atoms,usually by the application of extreme heat,as in atomic
absorption.

Auto-ignition temperature the lowest temperature at which a gas or vapor air mixture will
ignite from its own heat source or a contacted heated surface without a spark or flame.

Azeotrope a mixture of two or more compounds that have a constant boiling point. These
mixtures cannot be separated by fractional distillation.

Boiling point refers to the temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the
atmospheric pressure and the liquid becomes vapor.

Burn pattern the visible path of fire on a surface or surfaces.

Burning normal combustion in which the oxidant is molecular oxygen.

Burning rate the rate at which combustion proceeds across a fuel.

Butane a fuel gas having the formula C4 [Link] of the constituents found in LP gas.

Catalyst a substance that increases the rate of chemical reaction without undergoing a
permanent change in its structure.

Chain reaction a self-propagating chemical reaction in which activation on one molecule

leads successfully to the activation of may [Link] type of chain reaction is called
combustion reaction.

Combustion an exothermic chain reaction between oxidation and reducing agents or between
oxygen and fuel.

Compound a chemical combination of two or more elements or two or more different atoms
arranged in the same proportions and in the same structure throughout the substance.A
compound is different from a mixture in that the components of a mixture are not chemically
bonded together.

Conductivity the ability of a material to transfer energy from one place to

[Link] is the opposite of resistivity.

Conductivity (thermal) describes a substance’s ability to transmit heat.

Conductivity (electrical) describes a substance’s ability to transmit electrical current.

Control zones areas at a hazardous materials incident whose boundaries are based on safety
and the degree of hazard generally includes the hot zone,decontamination zone,and support
zone.

Convection transfer of heat by the movement of molecules in a gas or liquid with the less
dense fluid [Link] majority of heat transfer in a fire is by convection.

Deflagrate to burn with intense heat and light.

Ethyl-benzene a component of gasoline but also a major breakdown product of pyrolysis

released when certain polymers are heated.

Evaporation conversion of a liquid to the vapor state by the addition of latent heat.

Evaporation rate a measure of the quantity of a liquid converted to vapor in a unit of

[Link] single component liquids,the rate varies directly with the surface area,the
temperature and vapor pressure are inversely with the latent heat of vaporization of the liquid.

Exothermic reaction a chemical reaction that involves heat;combustion reaction is a type of

exothermic reaction.

Explosion the sudden conversion of chemical energy into kinetic energy with the release of
heat,light,and mechanical shock.

Explosion limit Also known as flammability limit, it refers to the highest or lowest
concentration of a flammable gas or vapor in air that will explode or burn readily when
[Link] limit is usually expressed as a volume percent of gas or vapor in air.

Explosives compounds that are unstable and breakdown with the sudden release of large
amount of energy.

Fire the light and heat manifested by the rapid oxidation of combustible materials.A flame
may be manifested but is not required.

Explosivity the characteristics of undergoing very rapid decomposition or combustion to

release large amounts of [Link] the light and heat manifested by the rapid oxidation of
combustible materials.A flame may be manifested but is not required.

Fire load amount of material that can burn.

Fire pattern marks left by fire,smoke, and soot on structures and devices.

Fire point the temperature generally a few degrees above the flash point at which burning is
self-sustaining after removal of an ignition source.

Fire Tetrahedron fuel,heat,oxygen and a chemical chain reaction.

Fire Triangle refers to fuel, heat and oxygen.

Flame a rapid gas phase combustion process characterized by self- propagation.

Flammable able to ignite and burn

Flammable liquid a combustible liquid that has a flash point below 100 degrees
[Link] having a vapor pressure of over 40 psi at 100 degrees Fahrenheit are
classified as flammable gases.

Flammable explosive range the range of gas or vapor concentration (percentage of volume in
air) that will burn or explode if an ignition source is present.

Flammable vapor a vapor air mixture of any concentration within the flammable range of that
vapor.

Flash a general term for any auxiliary,sudden,brilliant light.

Flash fire a fire that spreads with usual speed as one that races over flammable liquids or
through combustible gases.

Flash point the temperature at which a pool of liquid will generate sufficient vapor to form an
ignitable vapor/air mixture.

Fraction one of the portions of a volatile liquid within certain boiling point ranges such as
petroleum naphtha fraction or gas-oil fractions.

Freezing point temperature at which crystals start to form as a liquid is slowly

cooled,alternatively,the temperature at which a solid substance begins to melt as it is slowly
heated.

Flashback the movement of a flame to a fuel source;typically occurs via the vapor of a highly
volatile liquid or by a flammable gas escaping from the cylinder.

Fuel oil heavy petroleum distillate ranging from 1 (kerosine or range oil), up to 6 (heavy
bunker fuel). In order for it to be identified as fuel oil, a sample must exhibit a homologous
series of normal alkaline ranging from C9 and upward.

Fume gas,smoke,or vapor that smells strongly or is dangerous to smell.

Fume hood an enclosed laboratory cabinet with a movable sash or fixed access port on the
front,connected to a ventilating system that may incorporate air scrubbing or filtering
[Link] operation it draws in and then exhaust air from the lab to prevent or minimize the
escape of air [Link] enables employees to manipulate materials in the hood using
only their hands and arms.

Gas a physical state of matter that has low density and viscosity,can expand and contract
greatly in response to changes in temperature and pressure and readily and uniformly
distributes itself throughout any container.

Gas chromatograph are used to identify unknown compounds such as debris collected from
arson’s,on the basis of the retention time or relative retention time of a peak under certain
operating conditions.
Gas chromatography a separation technique involving passage of a gas as the mobile
phase,moving through a column containing a fixed adsorbent [Link] is used principally as
a quantitative analytical technique for volatile compounds or simple gases.

Gasoline refine petroleum used as fuel for internal combustion engine.A mixture of more
than 2 volatile hydrocarbons in the range of C4 to C12,suitable for use in a spark ignited
internal combustion [Link] automotive gasoline has a flash point of -40 degrees
Fahrenheit.

Headspace concentration a technique for concentration of all or most of the flammable or

combustible liquid vapors in a sample on to a tube of charcoal,a wire coated with charcoal,a
charcoal-coated polymer,or some other adsorbing material that will later be desorbed in order
to analyze the concentrated [Link] is primary form of sample preparation in arson debris
[Link] is also known as adsorption/elution,vapor concentration,or total headspace.

Heat a mode of energy associated with and proportional to molecular motion that may be
transferred from one body to another by conduction,convection or radiation.

is energy transferred from one system to another by thermal interaction.

High explosives explosives that produce an extremely intense explosive effect and a
supersonic pressure wave when they detonate.

Hot zone the area immediately surrounding a chemical hazard incident.

Ignition the means by which burning is started.

Ignition temperature the minimum temperature to which a fuel must be heated in order to
initiate or cause self-sustained combustion independent of another heat source.

Ignition source location of a flame,arc,spark or chemical reaction that provides sufficient heat
energy in the presence of a fuel and an oxidizer to initiate combustion.

Incendiaries substances or mixtures of substances consisting of a fuel and an oxidizer used to

initiate a fire.

Incendiary fire fire intentionally set by human hands often involving the use of an accelerant
to increase and spread the rate and intensity of burning.

Incidental accelerants

flammable or combustible liquids that are usual and incidental to an area where they are
detected.

Intumescent char in plastics,the swelling and charring that results in a higher ignition point
used in the preparation of flame retardant materials.

Ion an atom,molecule or radical that has lost or gained one or more electrons thus,acquiring
an electric [Link] charge ions are [Link] charge ions are anions.
Kelvin unit of temperature (K) measurement used to measure the color temperature of light.

Kerosine a flammable hydrocarbon oil used as fuel in lamps and heaters.

Liquid accelerant combustible or flammable liquid used to accelerate ignition and spread of
fire.

Low explosive explosives having a detonation less violent than high explosives and that
produce a subsonic pressure wave.

Magnesium (Mg) a silvery metal used in some metal incendiaries,the dust is highly explosive
with an ignition point of 650 degrees Fahrenheit.

Molecule the smallest particle into which a substance can be divided without changing its
chemical properties.A molecule of an element consists of one atom or two or more atoms that
are similar.A molecule of a compound consists of two or more different atoms.

Origin determination observing a fire scene,collecting and analyzing evidence and

conducting interviews with witnesses to determine where the fire began.

Oxidation a chemical reaction in which oxygen combines with another substance.

Pentane is usually used to extract flammable or combustible liquid residues from fire debris
samples.

Plant an ignition device that ignites the first fuel or assists the initial flame to build in
intensity,it may include a timing mechanism.

Polarity the measure of an electrical charge on a [Link] flammable or combustible

liquids are non polar.

Potassium nitrate (KNO3) transparent,colorless,or white crystalline powder or crystals used

in pyrotechnics,explosives,matches,metallurgy and glass manufacture.

Propane an alkaline having the formula C3H8. It is the major constituents of LP gas with an
explosive limit of 2.4 to 9% One cubic foot of propane has a heating value of 2500 BTU.

Pyrolysis decomposition by the application of or as a result of heat.

Pyromania an irresistible impulse or compulsion to start a fire or set something on fire.

Pyrophoric distillation the slow drying and passive pyrolysis of wood materials.

Serial arson three or more separate arson events with an emotional cooling off period
between fires.

Spontaneous heating also known as spontaneous combustion,initially a slow exothermic

reaction at ambient [Link] heat,if undissipated (insulated),accumulates at an
increasing rate and may lead to spontaneous ignition of any combustible present.
Trailer fast burning materials used by arsonist as fuses to rapidly spread fire throughout a
structure or [Link], s linear pour of a liquid accelerant or distribution of a twisted sheet of
paper that will lead a fire from one location to another.

Turpentine

Gum-form – the pitch obtained from living pine trees,a sticky viscous liquid.

Oil-form – a volatile liquid obtained y steam distillation of gum turpentine consisting mainly
of pine and [Link] is frequently identified in debris samples containing burned
wood from arson cases.

V-shape pattern fire pattern seen when a flame impinges on a vertical surface.

Vapor the gaseous form of a substance that is normally a solid or a liquid at room
temperature and pressure.

Vapor density the weight of a given volume of a vapor or a gas compare to the weight of an
equal volume of dry air,both measured at the same temperature and pressure

Vapor pressure a measure of the tendency of a liquid to become a gas at a given temperature.

Vaporization the physical change of going from a solid or a liquid into a gaseous status.

Vermiculite a micaceous hydrated silicate mineral used as a planting medium and as

insulation.

Vestibule is a lobby,entrance hall,or passage between the entrance and the interior of a
building.

Volatile prone to rapid [Link] combustible and non combustible materials may be
volatile aids in combustion; comes from the atmosphere we breath; the atmosphere contains:
21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen and 1% impurities

Each component of the tetrahedron must be in place for combustion to occur. Remove one of
the four components and combustion will not occur. If ignition has already occurred, the fire
is extinguished when one of the components is removed from the reaction.

ºC ºF Response

37 98.6 Normal human oral/body temperature

44 111 Human skin begins to feel pain

48 118 Human skin receives a first degree burn

55 131 Human skin receives a second degree

62 140 A phase where burned human tissue becomes numb

72 162 Human skin is instantly destroyed

- the most common source of heat in combustion reactions

-can generate temperature high enough to ignite any combustible material near the heated
area

Ex. solar energy is a product of a fusion

Reaction the transition between the growth and the fully developed fire stages and is not a
specific event such as ignition. During flashover, conditions in the compartment change very
rapidly as the fire changes from one that is dominated by the burning of the materials first
ignited to one that involves all of the exposed combustible surfaces within the compartment.
heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

Material

F C

Gasoline 536 280

Kerosene 410 210

Turpentine 488 253

Paper 842 450

Wood 489 254

Coal 750 400

Careless disposition of readily combustible materials

Poorly managed or defective heating facilities

BASED ON BURNING FUEL CLASS A

A – everyday combustibles

B – combustible or combustible liquids

Mechanical force ventilation - a method whereby a device such as smoke ejector is utilized
to remove faster excessive heat and dense smoke

Article 320 – 326 of the Revised Penal Code defines arson, its forms and penalties sufficient
nor will bare intention or even an attempt to burn a house amount to arson, if no part of it is
burned.

Yet, if there is actual ignition of any part of the building, arson is committed, in kerosene oil
and placed near the partition of the entire soil of an inhabited house, should not be qualified
as a consummated arson, in as much as no part of the house had begun to burn, although fire
would have started in the said partition had it not been extinguished on time. The crime
committed was frustrated arson.

What is Consummated Arson?

Charring pattern may indicate fire characteristics. The fact that the fire feeds on combustible
while propagating itself, indicates that the char will generally be deepest from where the fire
originates. When a fire is extinguished quickly, the charring is only slightly below the
surface. Fire burning for a longer period of time will indicate a char that is deep and
pronounced. These facts are most apparent in the charring of wood as a fire burns. The
charring from fire on woods looks like the hide of a black alligator. Fire extinguished quickly
on wood will show a large alligatoring pattern that has not penetrate the wood to any extent.
Fire burning for a long period of time on wood will show small alligatoring pattern but the
char will go deep into the wood. The direction of fire can also be taken into consideration
with charring. The exposed side of combustible will have a deeper char than the unexposed
side.

Disposing of Merchandise the stocks on hand may have lost value by reason of the seasonal
nature of the business, obsolesce, scarcity of materials necessary to complete the contracts,
overstock in the absence of expected order or a changing market.

Arson Chemicals (liquids) – are incendiary materials often used by arsonists as accelerants.
Possess excellent properties. Examples: alcohol, benzene, petroleum ether, gasoline,
kerosene, naptha, turpentine.

Fire - The active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of combustion.

Fire Trap - A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it lacks
adequate exits or fire escapes.

Organic Peroxide - A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen readily. It
causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under conditions of high
temperature.

Overloading - The use of one or more electrical appliances or devices which draw or
consume electrical current beyond the designed capacity of the existing electrical system.

Standpipe System - A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can be
attached on each floor, including a system by which water is made available to the outlets as
needed.
MIDTERM COVERAGE

1. Revised Penal Code (RPC) - Articles 320 to 326

 Originally, the RPC was the primary law on arson. While many of its provisions
were amended by PD 1613, it still defines the core criminal act.

 Article 320 (Destructive Arson): This covers the burning of one or more
buildings, edifices, or structures, regardless of whether the offender knew people
were inside. The penalty is Reclusion Perpetua to Death.

Simple Explanation: This is the "highest" form of arson. It involves burning

massive structures or places where many people could die, regardless of whether the
burner knew people were inside. The focus is on the type of building (e.g., a hospital, a
mall, or a large public building).

Scenario: A person sets fire to a crowded shopping mall in the middle of the
night. Even if they thought the mall was empty, because it is a major public
structure, it is categorized as Destructive Arson.

 Article 321 (Other Forms of Arson): Applies to the burning of inhabited houses,
public buildings, or vessels when the conditions for "Destructive Arson" are not
fully met.

Simple Explanation: This covers "smaller" but still very serious targets, like
individual houses, apartments, or small offices. If you burn a house where people live,
it falls here.

Scenario: A disgruntled tenant sets fire to their boarding house after being
evicted. Since the building is an "inhabited dwelling," the perpetrator is
charged under Section 3 of P.D. 1613.

 Article 326 (Setting Fire to Property Exposing Person to Danger): Focuses

on the act of setting fire to one's own property under circumstances that expose
the life or property of another to danger.
 In Philippine law, the distinction between Destructive Arson and Other Cases
of Arson hinges on the nature of the property, the risk to public safety, and the
strategic importance of the building.
Below are five examples for each category, followed by an intellectual breakdown of
the legal philosophy behind these classifications.

 1. Destructive Arson (Section 2, PD 1613 as amended)

Imposes reclusion temporal to reclusion perpetua (12-30 years) for burning specific
critical properties, including ammunition factories, public archives, places of worship,
transportation vessels, and public buildings.
These involve properties where the burning constitutes a threat to national security,
public economy, or a large number of people.
 A Munitions Factory: Burning a facility where the military stores explosives or
firearms.
 A Public Utility: Setting fire to a power plant or a water filtration facility servicing
a city.
 An Occupied Passenger Ship: Burning a commercial vessel while it is at sea or
docked with passengers aboard.
 A Government Building: Arson committed against a city hall, a courthouse, or a
provincial capitol.
 Any Building Resulting in Death: If a small hut is burned but a person dies inside
because of the fire, it is elevated to the gravity of destructive arson.

Intellectual Explanation: The "Public Danger" Doctrine

The law treats Destructive Arson as a heinous crime because the intent is seen as an
assault on society itself. The "intellect" behind this is that certain structures are "vital
organs" of a community. When you burn a power plant, you aren't just destroying a
building; you are potentially causing a city-wide blackout, hospital failures, and mass
chaos. Therefore, the law shifts focus from the value of the property to the magnitude
of the danger.

2. Other Cases of Arson (Section 3, PD 1613)

Covers the burning of government offices, inhabited houses, industrial establishments,
plantations, and warehouses.
These generally involve private property or structures that do not inherently serve a vital
public or military function.
 A Private Residence: Burning an inhabited house that is not classified as a "public
building."
  A Grain Warehouse: Setting fire to a private silo or "bodega" storing rice or corn.
 A Commercial Store: Arson committed against a local grocery store or a small
retail shop.
 Personal Property: Intentionally burning a neighbor's car or a stack of expensive
equipment.
 An Unoccupied Building: Burning an abandoned warehouse or a vacant farmhouse.

 Arson by a Syndicate (Section 4, P.D. 1613)

The maximum penalty is applied if the arson is committed for profit, spite, or by a syndicate
(3 or more persons).

Simple Explanation: If three or more people plan and carry out a fire together,
the law considers them a "syndicate." This is an aggravating circumstance, meaning
the punishment is much harsher.

Scenario: Three business partners decide to burn down their failing warehouse
to claim insurance money. Because three people conspired and executed the
act, it is considered Arson by a Syndicate.

While "Other Cases" are still serious felonies, the legal logic here focuses on
the violation of private ownership and individual safety. The penalty is slightly more
flexible because the "social shock" is lower than burning a military base or a hospital.
However, if these acts are done for insurance fraud or by a syndicate, the law applies
"Special Aggravating Circumstances," raising the penalty to the maximum because the
motive (greed/organized crime) is considered more "morally bankrupt."

 Prima Facie Evidence of Arson (Section 6, P.D. 1613)

Fire starting simultaneously in multiple places, excessive insurance, or finding incendiary

devices in the ruins constitute prima facie evidence of arson.
If death results from the arson, the penalty is reclusion perpetua to death.

Confiscation: The property destroyed by arson is generally confiscated by the state.

Note on Prima Facie Evidence: Under Section 6, the law makes a "logical
shortcut." If a building is insured for 80% more than its real value, the law
intellectually presumes the owner had a hand in it. It shifts the burden of proof,
requiring the accused to prove they didn't do it, rather than the state proving
they did.
 Simple Explanation: Prima Facie means "at first sight." In most crimes, you
must prove intent. But in arson, if the investigators find specific "red flags," the law
automatically assumes it was arson unless the owner can prove otherwise.

Scenario: Fire investigators find that a fire started in three different rooms at
the exact same time (multiple points of origin). Under Section 6, this is automatic
"Prima Facie" evidence that the fire was intentional.

Summary

Aspect Destructive Arson Other Cases of Arson

Simple View Burning things everyone needs or Burning things belonging to

where people die. individuals or businesses.

Intellectual Crime against Public Order: The Crime against Property: The act
View act jeopardizes the state's stability violates the right to secure ownership
and mass human life. and individual peace.

Legal Often involves Prima Facie Often focuses on the motive

Evidenc evidence (e.g., if the building was (spite, profit, or concealment of
e over-insured). another crime).

MALACAÑANG
M a n i la

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1613

AMENDING THE LAW ON ARSON

WHEREAS, findings of the police and intelligence agencies of the government reveal
that fires and other crimes involving destruction in Metro Manila and other urban
centers in the country are being perpetrated by criminal syndicates, some of which have
foreign connections;
WHEREAS, the current law on arson suffers from certain inadequacies that
impede the successful enforcement and prosecution of arsonists;

WHEREAS, it is imperative that the high incidence of fires and other crimes involving
destruction be prevented to protect the national economy and preserve the social,
economic and political stability of the country;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FERDINAND E. MARCOS, President of the Philippines, by

virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order and decree as
part of the law of the land, the following:

Section 1. Arson. Any person who burns or sets fire to the property of another shall be
punished by Prision Mayor.

The same penalty shall be imposed when a person sets fire to his own property
under circumstances which expose to danger the life or property of another.

Section 2. Destructive Arson. The penalty of Reclusion Temporal in its maximum

period to Reclusion Perpetua shall be imposed if the property burned is any of the
following:

[Link] ammunition factory and other establishment where explosives, inflammable or

combustible materials are stored.

2. Any archive, museum, whether public or private, or any edifice devoted to culture,
education or social services.

3. Any church or place of worship or other building where people usually assemble.

4. Any train, airplane or any aircraft, vessel or watercraft, or conveyance for

transportation of persons or property

4. Any building where evidence is kept for use in any legislative, judicial, administrative
or other official proceedings.

5. Any hospital, hotel, dormitory, lodging house, housing tenement, shopping center,
public or private market, theater or movie house or any similar place or building.
6. Any building, whether used as a dwelling or not, situated in a populated or congested
area.

Section 3. Other Cases of Arson. The penalty of Reclusion Temporal to Reclusion

Perpetua shall be imposed if the property burned is any of the following:

1. Any building used as offices of the government or any of its agencies;

2. Any inhabited house or dwelling;

3. Any industrial establishment, shipyard, oil well or mine shaft, platform or tunnel;

[Link] plantation, farm, pastureland, growing crop, grain field, orchard, bamboo grove or
forest;

4. Any rice mill, sugar mill, cane mill or mill central; and

[Link] railway or bus station, airport, wharf or warehouse.

Section 4. Special Aggravating Circumstances in Arson. The penalty in any case of

arson shall be imposed in its maximum period;

1. If committed with intent to gain;

2. If committed for the benefit of another;

3. If the offender is motivated by spite or hatred towards the owner or occupant of the
property burned;

4. If committed by a syndicate.

The offense is committed by a syndicate if its is planned or carried out by a group of

three (3) or more persons.

Section 5. Where Death Results from Arson. If by reason of or on the occasion of the
arson death results, the penalty of Reclusion Perpetua to death shall be imposed.
Section 6. Prima Facie evidence of Arson. Any of the following circumstances shall
constitute prima facie evidence of arson:

1. If the fire started simultaneously in more than one part of the building or
establishment.

[Link] amount of flammable substances or materials are stored within the

building note necessary in the business of the offender nor for household us.

3. If gasoline, kerosene, petroleum or other flammable or combustible substances or

materials soaked therewith or containers thereof, or any mechanical, electrical,
chemical, or electronic contrivance designed to start a fire, or ashes or traces of any of
the foregoing are found in the ruins or premises of the burned building or property.

4. If the building or property is insured for substantially more than its actual value at the
time of the issuance of the policy.

4. If
during the lifetime of the corresponding fire insurance policy more than two fires
have occurred in the same or other premises owned or under the control of the offender
and/or insured.

5. Ifshortly before the fire, a substantial portion of the effects insured and stored in a
building or property had been withdrawn from the premises except in the ordinary
course of business.

6. Ifa demand for money or other valuable consideration was made before the fire in
exchange for the desistance of the offender or for the safety of the person or property of
the victim.

Section 7. Conspiracy to commit Arson. Conspiracy to commit arson shall be punished

by Prision Mayor in its minimum period.

Section 8. Confiscation of Object of Arson. The building which is the object of arson
including the land on which it is situated shall be confiscated and escheated to the
State, unless the owner thereof can prove that he has no participation in nor knowledge
of such arson despite the exercise of due diligence on his part.

Section 9. Repealing Clause. The provisions of Articles 320 to 326-B of the Revised
Penal Code and all laws, executive orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof,
inconsistent with the provisions of this Decree are hereby repealed or amended
accordingly.

Section 10. Effectivity. This Decree shall take effect immediately upon publication
thereof at least once in a newspaper of general circulation.

Done in the City of Manila, this 7th day of March, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and seventy-nine.

3. Presidential Decree No. 1613 (The Amending Law on Arson) as amended by PD

1744

AMENDING ARTICLES THREE HUNDRED AND TWENTY O F THE REVISED

PENAL CODE PROVISIONS ON ARSON.

WHEREAS, there have been rampant and wanton burning of residential houses, public
buildings, markets, hotels, and other commercial establishments;
WHEREAS, to effectively discourage and deter the commission of arson, and to
prevent destruction of properties and protect the lives of innocent people, it is necessary
that the capital punishment be imposed upon arsonists;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FERDINAND E. MARCOS, President of the Philippines, by

virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby order and decree that
Article 320, Revised Penal Code be amended:

SECTION 1. Article 320 of the Revised Penal Code shall read as follows:

"Article 320. —DESTRUCTIVE ARSON. — The penalty of RECLUSION

TEMPORAL in its Maximum period to death shall be imposed upon any person who
shall burn:

1. One (1) or more buildings or edifices, consequent to one single act of burning, or as
a result of simultaneous burnings, or committed on several or different occasions;
2. Any building of public Or private ownership, devoted to the use of the public in
general, or where people usually gather or congregate for a definite purpose such as
"but not limited to official governmental function or business, private' transaction,
commerce, trade, worship, meetings and conferences, or merely incidental to a definite
purpose such as but not limited to hotels, motels, transient dwellings, public conveyance
or stops or terminals, regardless of whether the offender had knowledge that there are
persons in said building or edifice at the time it is set on fire, and regardless also of
whether the building is actually inhabited or not.
3. Any train or locomotive, ship or vessel, airship or airplane, devoted to transportation
or convenience, or for public use, entertainment or leisure.
4. Any building, factory, warehouse, installation and any tenances thereto, which are
devoted to the service of public utilities.
[Link] Building, the burning of which is for the purpose of concealing or destroying,
evidence of another violation of law, or for the purpose of concealing bankcruptcy or
defrauding creditors or to collect from insurance.

Irrespective of the application of the above enumerated qualifying circumstances, the

penalty of DEATH shall likewise be imposed when the arson is perpetrated or
committed by the (2) or more persons or by a group of persons, regardless of whether
their purpose is merely to burn or destroy the building of the edifice, or the burning
merely constitutes an overt act in the commission or another violation of law.

The penalty of RECLUSION TEMPORAL in its maximum period to DEATH shall

also be imposed upon any person who shall burn:

[Link] arsenal, shipyard, storehouse or military powder or fireworks factory, ordnance

storehouse, archives or general museum of the government.
[Link] an inhabited place, any storehouse or factory of inflammable or explosive materials.

If as a consequence of the commission of any of the acts penalized under this Article,
death or injury results, or any valuable documents, equipment, machineries, apparatus,
or other valuable properties were burned or destroyed, the mandatory penalty of death
shall be imposed."

SEC. 2. Provisions of Articles 320, 321 and 322 of the Revised Penal Code which are
or may be inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.

SEC. 3. Effectivity. —This Decree shall take effect immediately .

Done in the City of Manila, this 11th day of November, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen
hundred and eighty.

 Presidential Decree No. 1613 (1979), as amended by PD 1744 (1980), strengthens

Philippine arson laws by defining "Destructive Arson" and imposing stiffer
penalties, including reclusion perpetua to death if death results. These decrees
classify arson based on property type, increase penalties for syndicate-related
arson, and establish prima facie evidence.
 This is the most frequently cited law in modern arson investigations because it
clarifies the "Prima Facie" evidence of arson and categorizes offenses more
specifically.
 PD 1744 specifically amended Article 320 of the Revised Penal Code to broaden the
scope of destructive arson.

 Section 1 (Arson): Any person who burns or sets fire to the property of another.
 Destructive Arson (Sec. 2, as amended by PD 1744): Covers burning of
critical infrastructure (munitions factories, public utilities, ships, public
buildings, or where death results).

 Section 3 (Other Cases of Arson): Covers lesser buildings or personal property,

with penalties ranging from reclusion temporal to reclusion perpetua.

Lists specific targets that carry a penalty of Reclusion Temporal to Reclusion Perpetua,
including:

1. Inhabited houses or dwellings.

2. Government buildings or offices.
3. Industrial establishments, factories, or warehouses.
4. Cane fields, grain fields, or forests.

 Section 4 (Special Aggravating Circumstances): Penalty is imposed in its

maximum period if committed for profit, by a syndicate (3+ persons), or for spite.

The maximum penalty is imposed if:

1. The arson is committed with intent to gain (e.g., insurance fraud).

2. Committed for the benefit of another.
3. Committed by a syndicate (a group of 3 or more persons).

 Section 6 (Prima Facie Evidence of Arson): Arson is presumed if fires start

simultaneously in multiple places, or insurance is significantly higher than the
property value.

This is crucial for investigators. Arson is presumed if:

1. The fire started simultaneously in more than one part of the building.
2. Substantial amounts of flammable substances (gasoline, kerosene)
were stored unnecessarily.
3. The property was insured for substantially more than its value.
4. Substantial insured goods were withdrawn shortly before the fire.
5. The owner had more than two fires in their premises previously.

[Link] Act No. 9514 (Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008)

 Republic Act No. 9514, or the Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008, governs all fire
safety standards, prevention, and suppression measures for public and private
buildings. It mandates the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to enforce safety, inspect
structures, and issue Fire Safety Inspection Certificates (FSIC) for business permits.

Key details regarding RA 9514 include:

 Purpose: To prevent fire-related losses, ensure public safety, and modernize fire
services.
 Applicability: Covers all buildings, facilities, and structures constructed before or after
its effectivity.
 Enforcement: The BFP conducts inspections for compliance regarding fire
escapes, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and hazardous materials.
 Penalties: Violations such as obstructing fire lanes or failing to comply with safety
standards can lead to administrative fines ranging from ₱37,500 to ₱50,000.

 2019 Amendments: The Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations

(RIRR) were established to update fire safety standards and strengthen
enforcement mechanisms.

 While PD 1613 defines the crime, RA 9514 provides the regulatory framework
for fire safety and the administrative authority for investigations.

Section 7 (Fire and Arson Investigation): Grants the Bureau of Fire

Protection (BFP) the power to investigate all causes of fires.

Administrative Fines: Aside from criminal charges, the BFP can impose
heavy fines for "prohibited acts" like obstructing an investigation or failing to
provide fire safety measures that contributed to the fire.

Fourteenth Congress

Second Regular Session

Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday, the twenty-eight day of July, two
thousand eight.

REPUBLIC ACT No. 9514 December 19, 2008

Repealed PD 1185
 AN ACT ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE FIRE CODE OF THE
PHILIPPINES, REPEALING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1185 AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress

assembled:

Section 1. This Act shall be known as the "Revised Fire Code of the Philippines of
2008".

Section 2. It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety and promote economic
development through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires
and promote the professionalization of the fire service as a profession. Towards this
end, the State shall enforce all laws, rules and regulations to ensure adherence to
standard fire prevention and safety measures, and promote accountability for fire safety
in the fire protection service and prevention service.

That statement is essentially the "mission statement" for fire safety in the Philippines
(specifically from the Bureau of Fire Protection mandate). In plain English, it means
the government's job isn't just to put out fires, but to stop them from happening in the
first place so people stay safe and businesses can grow without burning down.

1. The Three Main Goals

The policy focuses on three specific pillars:

A. PublicSafety & Economy: If buildings don't burn down, people don't die and the
economy stays strong (because businesses keep running).
B. Prevention & Suppression: "Suppression" is putting fires out; "Prevention" is
making sure they never start.
C. Professionalization: Ensuring that firefighters are highly trained experts, not just
random people with a hose.

2. Practical Examples
How does this law actually affect your daily life? Here are a few "real-world" scenarios:

 Fire Safety Inspections Before a business (like a mall or a small cafe) can
open, the fire department must inspect it.

Example: A fire inspector checks if a restaurant has enough fire extinguishers and if
the "Exit" signs actually light up. If they don't comply, they don't get a permit.

 The Fire Code The state sets strict rules on how buildings are built.

Example: High-rise condos are required by law to have automatic sprinkler systems
and smoke detectors in every unit. This is the "standard fire prevention measure"
mentioned in the policy.

Accountability If a fire happens and it’s discovered that the building owner blocked
the fire exits, they face legal

consequences.

Example: After a major factory fire, the government investigates. If the fire pumps were
broken and the owner knew it, they are held accountable under this policy.

Modernizing the Service Professionalization means moving beyond old equipment and
basic training.

Example: The state invests in modern "Ariel Ladder" trucks for high-rise rescues and
sends firefighters to specialized training for handling chemical leaks or electrical fires.

Summary Table

What the Policy Says What it actually means

 "Suppression of fires" Putting out the flames as fast as possible.

"Prevention" Checking wires and exits so the fire never

starts.

"Professionalization" Better gear and better training for

firefighters.

"Economic Development" Protecting shops and factories so the country

stays wealthy.

Bottom Line: The law exists to make sure your home and workplace are built safely, that
there are experts ready to help if something goes wrong, and that anyone who ignores safety
rules gets penalized.

Section 3. Definition of Terms. - As used in this Fire Code, the following words and phrases
shall mean and be construed as indicated:

Abatement - Any act that would remove or neutralize a fire hazard.

Administrator - Any person who acts as agent of the owner and manages the use of a
building for him.

Blasting Agent - Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer used to set off
explosives.

Cellulose Nitrate Or Nitro Cellulose - A highly combustible and explosive compound

produced by the reaction of nitric acid with a cellulose material.

Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin) - Any plastic substance, materials or compound having
cellulose nitrate (nitro cellulose) as base.
Combustible, Flammable or Inflammable - Descriptive of materials that are easily set on
fire.

Combustible Fiber - Any readily ignitable and free burning fiber such as cotton, oakum,
rags, waste cloth, waste paper, kapok, hay, straw, Spanish moss, excelsior and other similar
materials commonly used in commerce.

Combustible Liquid - Any liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8_C (100_F).

Corrosive Liquid - Any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organic matter or with
certain chemicals.

Curtain Board - A vertical panel of non-combustible or fire resistive materials attached to

and extending below the bottom chord of the roof trusses, to divide the underside of the roof
into separate compartments so that heat and smoke will be directed upwards to a roof vent.

Cryogenic - Descriptive of any material which by its nature or as a result of its reaction with
other elements produces a rapid drop in temperature of the immediate surroundings.

Damper - A normally open device installed inside an air duct system which automatically
closes to restrict the passage of smoke or fire.

Distillation - The process of first raising the temperature in separate the more volatile from
the less volatile parts and then cooling and condensing the resulting vapor so as to produce
a nearly purified substance.

Duct System - A continuous passageway for the transmission of air.

Dust - A finely powdered substance which, when mixed with air in the proper proportion and
ignited will cause an explosion.
Electrical Arc - An extremely hot luminous bridge formed by passage of an electric current
across a space between two conductors or terminals due to the incandescence of the
conducting vapor.

Ember - A hot piece or lump that remains after a material has partially burned, and is still
oxidizing without the manifestation of flames.

Finishes - Materials used as final coating of a surface for ornamental or protective purposes.

Fire - The active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of combustion.

Fire Trap - A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it lacks
adequate exits or fire escapes.

Fire Alarm - Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or system to warm the
occupants of the building or fire fighting elements of the presence or danger of fire to
enable them to undertake immediate action to save life and property and to suppress the
fire.

Fire Door - A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire separation walls or partitions.

Fire Hazard - Any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase in the
probability of the occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with
fire fighting operations and the safeguarding of life and property.

Fire Lane - The portion of a roadway or publicway that should be kept opened and
unobstructed at all times for the expedient operation of fire fighting units.

Fire Protective And Fire Safety Device - Any device intended for the protection of
buildings or persons to include but not limited to built-in protection system such as
sprinklers and other automatic extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and
combustion products and other warning system components, personal protective equipment
such as fire blankets, helmets, fire suits, gloves and other garments that may be put on or
worn by persons to protect themselves during fire.
Fire Safety Constructions - Refers to design and installation of walls, barriers, doors,
windows, vents, means of egress, etc. integral to and incorporated into a building or
structure in order to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic before the
building is evacuated. These features are also designed to achieve, among others, safe and
rapid evacuation of people through means of egress sealed from smoke or fire, the
confinement of fire or smoke in the room or floor of origin and delay their spread to other
parts of the building by means of smoke sealed and fire resistant doors, walls and floors. It
shall also mean to include the treatment of buildings components or contents with flame
retardant chemicals.

Flash Point - The minimum temperature at which any material gives off vapor in sufficient
concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air.

Forcing -A process where a piece of metal is heated prior to changing its shape or
dimensions.

Fulminate - A kind of stable explosive compound which explodes by percussion.

Hazardous Operation/Process - Any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion, etc., that

uses or produces materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions.

Horizontal Exit - Passageway from one building to another or through or around a wall in
approximately the same floor level.

Hose Box - A box or cabinet where fire hoses, valves and other equipment are stored and
arranged for fire fighting.

Hose Reel - A cylindrical device turning on an axis around which a fire hose is wound and
connected.

Hypergolic Fuel - A rocket or liquid propellant which consist of combinations of fuels and
oxidizers which ignite spontaneously on contact with each other.

Industrial Baking And Drying - The industrial process of subjecting materials to heat for the
purpose of removing solvents or moisture from the same, and/or to fuse certain chemical
salts to form a uniform glazing the surface of materials being treated.
Jumper - A piece of metal or an electrical conductor used to bypass a safety device in an
electrical system.

Occupancy - The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is used or intended to be
used.

Occupant - Any person actually occupying and using a building or portions thereof by
virtue of a lease contract with the owner or administrator or by permission or
sufferance of the latter.

Organic Peroxide - A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen

readily. It causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under
conditions of high temperature.

Overloading - The use of one or more electrical appliances or devices which draw or
consume electrical current beyond the designed capacity of the existing electrical
system.

Owner - The person who holds the legal right of possession or title to a building or real
property.

Oxidizing Material - A material that readily yields oxygen in quantities sufficient to

stimulate or support combustion.

Pressurized Or Forced Draft Burning Equipment - Type or burner where the fuel is
subjected to pressure prior to discharge into the combustion chamber and/or which
includes fans or other provisions for the introduction of air at above normal atmosphere
pressure into the same combustion chamber.

Public Assembly Building - Any building or structure where fifty (50) or more people
congregate, gather, or assemble for any purpose.

Public Way - Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed from the ground to
the sky, deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for public use.
 Pyrophoric - Descriptive of any substance that ignites spontaneously when exposed to
air.

Refining - A process where impurities and/or deleterious materials are removed from a
mixture in order to produce a pure element of compound. It shall also refer to partial
distillation and electrolysis.

Self-Closing Doors - Automatic closing doors that are designed to confine smoke and heat
and delay the spread of fire.

Smelting - Melting or fusing of metallic ores or compounds so as to separate impurities from

pure metals.

Sprinkler System - An integrated network of hydraulically designed piping installed in a

building, structure or area with outlets arranged in a systematic pattern which automatically
discharges water when activated by heat or combustion products from a fire.

Standpipe System - A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can be
attached on each floor, including a system by which water is made available to the outlets as
needed.

Vestibule - A passage hall or antechamber between the outer doors and the interior parts of a
house or building.

Vertical Shaft - An enclosed vertical space of passage that extends from floor to floor, as
well as from the base to the top of the building.

Section 4. Applicability of The Code. - The provisions of the Fire Code shall apply to
all persons and all private and public buildings, facilities or structures erected or
constructed before and after its effectivity.

Section 5. Responsibility for the Enforcement of this Code. - This Code shall be
administered and enforced by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), under the direct
supervision and control of the Chief of the Bureau of Fire Protection, through the
hierarchy of organization as provided for in Chapter VI of Republic Act No. 6975. with
the approval of the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government
(DILG), the BFP, is hereby authorized to:
a. Issue implementing rules and regulations, and prescribe standards, schedules of
fees/fire service charges and administrative penalties therefore as provided in the
pertinent provisions of this Code;

Rule-Making and Fee Setting

The BFP has the authority to create the specific rules (IRR) that explain how the
law is applied, including how much people must pay for fire inspections.

Example: Setting the specific cost for a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate based
on a building's floor area.

B. Reorganize the BFP as may be necessary and appropriate;

Internal Reorganization

The BFP can restructure its own offices and ranks to improve efficiency.

Example 1: Creating a specialized "Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Unit"

within a regional office.

c. Support and assist fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer organizations in
the country who shall undergo mandatory fire suppression, inspection, rescue,
emergency medical services and related emergency response trainings and competency
evaluations to be conducted by the BFP. In the case of the Fire practitiones, they shall
undergo mandatory continuous professional education and competency evaluation of
their expertise, knowledge and skills in the area of fire science, engineering and
technology to be conducted by the BFP;

The BFP may enter into external party agreements for the conduct of training,
education and evaluation of fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer
organizations, which shall be under the full control and supervision of the
BFP: Provided, however, That during firefighting operations, fire volunteer
organizations shall be under the direct operational control of the fire ground
commanders of the BFP;

Support for Volunteers and Practitioners

The BFP supervises and trains fire volunteers and private fire experts (practitioners)
to ensure they meet national standards.

Example 1: Conducting a mandatory competency evaluation for a

neighborhood "Fire Brigade" before they are allowed to respond to local
fires.

[Link] into long term agreement, either through public biddings or negotiations in
accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as the
Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003, for the acquisition of fire prevention,
fire protection and fire fighting investigation, rescue, paramedics, hazardous material
handling equipment, supplies, materials and related technical services necessary for the
fire services;

Procurement of Equipment

The BFP can enter into contracts (bidding or negotiation) to buy fire trucks, gear,
and medical equipment under the Government Procurement Law.

Example 1: Holding a public bidding process to purchase 50 new chemical-

resistant suits for firefighters.

e. Enter into Memoranda of Agreement with other departments, bureaus, agencies,

offices and corporations of the government, as well as private institutions, in order to
define areas of cooperation and coordination and delineate responsibility on fire
prevention education, fire safety, fire prevention, fire suppression and other matters of
common concern;

Inter-Agency Agreements (MOA)

The BFP collaborates with other government branches or private groups to share

resources and define who does what. Example 1: Signing a MOA with the

Department of Education to include fire safety drills in the school

curriculum.

f. Callon the police, other law enforcement agencies, and local government assistance
to render necessary assistance in the enforcement of this Code;

Police and LGUs Assistance

The BFP can call for backup from the PNP or local government units to help enforce

fire laws, especially if they face resistance. Example 1: Requesting police

presence while padlocking a building that has repeatedly ignored fire safety

violations.

g. Designate a fire safety inspector through his/her duly authorized representative, who
shall conduct an inspection of every building or structure within his area of
responsibility at least once a year and every time the owner, administrator or occupant
shall renew his/her business permit or permit to operate;

Mandatory Annual Inspections

Buildings must be inspected at least once a year. No business or occupancy permit

is valid without a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC).

Example 1: A mall undergoing its annual inspection to check if exit signs are
lit and extinguishers are pressurized.

No occupancy permit, business or permit to operate shall be issued without securing a

Fire Safety Inspection Certification (FSIC) from the Chief, BFP, or his/her duly
authorized representative;
h. Inspect at reasonable time, any building, structure, installation or premises for
dangerous or hazardous conditions or materials as set forth in this Code, provided that
in case of single family dwelling, an inspection must be upon the consent of the
occupant or upon lawful order from the proper court. The Chief, BFP or his/her duly
authorized representative shall order the owner/occupant to remove hazardous
materials and/or stop hazardous operation/process in accordance with the standards set
by this Code or its implementing rules or regulations or other pertinent laws;

Right to Inspect and Remove Hazards

BFP inspectors can enter premises (with consent for private homes) to check for
dangerous conditions and order the removal of hazardous materials.

Example 1: Ordering a warehouse to properly store or remove improperly

stacked drums of flammable gasoline.

i. Whereconditions exist and are deemed hazardous to life and property, to order the
owner/occupant of any building or

Summary Abatement

If a condition is extremely dangerous to life, the BFP can order the owner to fix it
immediately (abatement).

Example 1: Ordering the immediate clearing of a fire exit that has been
chained shut or blocked by heavy [Link] to summarily abate such
hazardous conditions;

j. Require the building owner/occupant to submit plans and specifications, and other
pertinent documents of said building to ensure compliance with applicable codes and
standards; and

Submission of Plans

Owners must submit building blueprints and technical specs to the BFP to ensure the
design is fire-safe before construction.
 Example 1: A developer submitting the plumbing layout of a new hotel to
prove the sprinkler system reaches every room.

k. Issuea written notice to the owner and/or contractor to stop work on portion of any
work due to absence, or in violation of approved plans and specifications, permit and/or
clearance or certification as approved by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative. The notice shall state the nature of the violation and no work shall be
continued on that portion until the violation has been corrected.

Stop Work Orders

The BFP can halt construction if the work doesn't match approved plans or if the
project lacks the proper fire safety clearances.

Example 1: Issuing a notice to a contractor to stop building the 5th floor

because they failed to install the required fire escape on the lower floors.

Note to Remember: Section 5 of the Revised Fire Code of the Philippines (RA 9514)
outlines the powers and functions of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). Essentially,
it establishes the BFP as the primary authority for fire safety in the country.

Section 6. Technical Staff. - The Chief, BFP shall constitute a technical staff of highly
qualified persons who are knowledgeable on fire prevention, fire safety, and fire
suppression. They may be drawn not only from the organic members of the BFP and
other government offices and agencies, but also from other sources. In the latter case,
they will either be appointed into the service or hired as consultants in accordance with
law. The technical staff shall study, review and evaluate latest developments and
standards on fire technology; prepare plans/programs on fire safety, prevention and
suppression and evaluate implementation thereof; develop programs on the
professionalization of the fire service; coordinate with appropriate government and
private institutions for the offering of college courses on fire technology and fire
protection engineering; propose amendments to the Fire Code; advise the Chief, BFP
on any matter brought to his attention; and perform such other functions as directed on
any matter brought to his attention and perform such other functions as directed by
higher authorities.

Section 7. Inspections, Safety Measures, Fire Safety, Constructions, and Protective

and/or Warning Systems. - As may be defined and provided in the Rules and
 Regulations, owners, administrators or occupants of buildings, structures and their
premises or facilities and other responsible persons shall be required to comply with the
following, as may be appropriate:

a. Inspection Requirement - A fire safety inspection shall be conducted by the Chief,

BFP or his duly authorized representative as prerequisite to the grants of permits and/or
licenses by local governments and other government agencies concerned, for the:

(1) Use or occupancy of buildings, structures, facilities or their premises including the
installation or fire protection and fire safety equipment, and electrical system in any
building structure or facility; and

(2) Storage, handling and/or use of explosives or of combustible, flammable, toxic and
other hazardous materials;

The "No Inspection, No Business" Rule (Section A)

Before you get a permit to open a shop, factory, or condo, the BFP must check your
electrical systems and fire equipment.

Simple terms: The BFP is the "gatekeeper." No safety check = No legal business.

Example: A new Samgyupsal restaurant cannot get a Mayor’s Permit until

the BFP confirms their gas lines are leak-proof.

b. Safety
Measures for Hazardous Materials - Fire safety measures shall be required for
the manufacture, storage, handling and/or use of hazardous materials involving:

(1) cellulose nitrate plastic of any kind;

(2) combustible fibers;

(3) cellular materials such as foam, rubber, sponge rubber and plastic foam;

(4) flammable and combustible liquids or gases of any classification;

(5) flammable paints, varnishes, stains and organic coatings;
(6) high-piled or widely spread combustible stock;

(7) metallic magnesium in any form;

(8) corrosive liquids, oxidizing materials, organic peroxide, nitromethane, ammonium

nitrate, or any amount of highly toxic, pyrophoric, hypergolic, or cryogenic materials or
poisonous gases as well as material compounds which when exposed to heat or flame
become a fire conductor, or generate excessive smoke or toxic gases;

(9) blasting agents, explosives and special industrial explosive materials, blasting caps,
black powder, liquid nitro-glycerine, dynamite, nitro cellulose, fulminates of any kind, and
plastic explosives containing ammonium salt or chlorate;

(10) fireworks materials of any kind or form;

(11) matches in commercial quantities;

(12) hot ashes, live coals and embers;

(13) mineral, vegetable or animal oils and other derivatives/by products;

(14) combustible waste materials for recycling or resale;

(15) explosive dusts and vapors; and

(16) agriculture, forest, marine or mineral products which may undergo spontaneous
combustion.

(17) any other substance with potential to cause harm to persons, property or the
environment because of one or more of the following: a) The chemical properties of the
substance; b) The physical properties of the substance; c) The biological properties of the
substance. Without limiting the definition of hazardous material, all dangerous goods,
combustible liquids and chemicals are hazardous materials.

 The "Hazardous Materials" List (Section B)

This is a massive list of "scary stuff" that catches fire or explodes easily. If you handle
these, you need extra-special permits and storage.
 Simple terms: If it’s explosive, toxic, or highly flammable (from matches to
magnesium), you can't just throw it in a corner. You need a bunker or
specialized containers.

Example: A warehouse storing lithium batteries or fireworks must have

specific cooling systems and restricted access areas.

c. SafetyMeasures for Hazardous Operation/Processes - Fire Safety measures shall be

required for the following hazardous operation/processes:

(1) welding or soldering;

(2) industrial baking and drying;

(3) waste disposal;

(4) pressurized/forced-draft burning equipment;

(5) smelting and forging;

(6) motion picture projection using electrical arc lamps;

(7) refining, distillation and solvent extraction; and

(8) such other operations or processes as may hereafter be prescribed in the Rules and
Regulations.

 Dangerous Work Processes (Section C)

It’s not just what you have, but what you do. Certain jobs are "fire magnets."

Simple terms: High-heat jobs like welding or smelting require active fire
watches and safety gear.

Example: A car repair shop doing welding must have a "Hot Work Permit" and
a fire extinguisher within arm's reach at all times.
 d. Provision on Fire Safety Construction, Protective and Warning System - Owners,
occupants or administrator or buildings, structures and their premises or facilities,
except such other buildings or structures as may be exempted in the rules and
regulations to be promulgated under Section 5 hereof, shall incorporate and provide
therein fire safety construction, protective and warning system, and shall develop and
implement fire safety programs, to wit:

(1) Fire protection features such as sprinkler systems, hose boxes, hose reels or
standpipe systems and other fire fighting equipment;

(2) Fire Alarm systems;

(3) Fire walls to separate adjoining buildings, or warehouses and storage areas from other
occupancies in the same building;

(4) Provisions for confining the fire at its source such as fire resistive floors and walls
extending up to the next floor slab or roof, curtain boards and other fire containing or
stopping components;

(5) Termination of all exits in an area affording safe passage to a public way or safe
dispersal area;

(6) Stairway, vertical shafts, horizontal exits and other means of egress sealed from smoke
and heat;

(7) A fire exit plan for each floor of the building showing the routes from each other
room to appropriate exits, displayed prominently on the door of such room;

(8) Self-closing fire resistive doors leading to corridors;

(9) Fire dampers in centralized airconditioning ducts;

(10) Roof vents for use by fire fighters; and

(11) Properly marked and lighted exits with provision for emergency lights to
adequately illuminate exit ways in case of power failure.

 Built-in Safety Architecture (Section D)

This requires buildings to have "passive" and "active" defense systems.

 Active Systems: Things that do something (Sprinklers, Alarms).

Passive Systems: How the building is built (Fire walls, Self-closing doors).

Example: If a fire starts on the 3rd floor, Fire Dampers in the AC vents slam
shut so smoke doesn't travel to the 4th floor, and Self-closing doors keep the
flames inside the room where they started.

Note to remember: Section 7 transforms fire safety from a "reaction" (putting out fires)
into a technical requirement for entry into the economy. To participate in business, you
must invest in safety infrastructure.

Section 8. Prohibited Acts. - The following are declared as prohibited act and omission.

(a) Obstructing or blocking the exit ways or across to buildings clearly marked for fire
safety purposes, such as but not limited to aisles in interior rooms, any part of
stairways, hallways, corridors, vestibules, balconies or bridges leading to a stairway or
exit of any kind, or tolerating or allowing said violations;

(b) Constructing gates, entrances and walkways to buildings components and yards
which obstruct the orderly and easy passage of fire fighting vehicles and equipment;

(c) Prevention,interference or obstruction of any operation of the Fire Service, or of

duly organized and authorized fire brigades;

(d) Obstructing designated fire lanes or access to fire hydrants;

(e)Overcrowding or admission of persons beyond the authorized capacity in movie

houses, theaters, coliseums, auditoriums or other public assembly buildings, except in
other assembly areas on the ground floor with open sides or open doors sufficient to
provide safe exits;

(f) Locking fire exits during period when people are inside the building;
(g) Prevention or obstruction of the automatic closure of fire doors or smoke partitions or
dampers;

(h) Use of fire protective of fire fighting equipment of the fire service other than for
fire fighting except in other emergencies where their use are justified;

(i) Giving false or malicious fire alarms;

(j) Smoking in prohibited areas as may be determined by fire service, or throwing of

cigars, cigarettes, burning objects in places which may start or cause fire;

(k) Abandoning or leaving a building or structure by the occupant or owner without

appropriate safety measures;

(l) Removing. destroying, tampering or obliterating any authorized mark, seal, sign or
tag posted or required by the fire service for fire safety in any building, structure or
processing equipment; and

(m) Useof jumpers or tampering with electrical wiring or overloading the electrical
system beyond its designated capacity or such other practices that would tend to
undermine the fire safety features of the electrical system.

Summary: Under Section 8, any act that blocks people from getting out,
prevents firefighters from getting in, tamperes with electrical/safety
systems, or misuses emergency resources is strictly prohibited.

1. Blocking Escape Routes and Access

 Obstruction: Blocking aisles, hallways, stairways, or exits (a).

 External Access: Building gates or walkways that stop fire trucks from entering
(b).
 Fire Lanes/Hydrants: Parking in fire lanes or blocking access to hydrants (d).
 Locked Exits: Locking fire exits while people are inside the building (f)

2. Overcrowding and Safety Systems

 Capacity Limits: Admitting more people than allowed in theaters or arenas (e).
 Safety Devices: Preventing fire doors, smoke dampers, or partitions from closing
automatically (g).
 Electrical Tampering: Using "jumpers," overloading circuits, or tampering with
wiring (m).

3. Interference and Misuse

 Obstruction of Personnel: Interfering with BFP or fire brigade operations (c).

 Equipment Misuse: Using fire hoses or equipment for non-emergency purposes

(h).
 False Alarms: Reporting fake fires or malicious alarms (i).

4. Dangerous Behavior

 Negligence: Smoking in prohibited areas or throwing lit cigarettes (j).

 Abandonment: Leaving a building without securing it against fire hazards (k).

5. Tampering with Official Marks

Signage: Removing or destroying official BFP seals, safety signs, or warning tags (l).

Section 9. Violation, Penalties and Abatement of Fire Hazard. - Fire hazards shall be
abated immediately. The Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative, upon the
report that a violation of this Code or other pertinent laws, rules and regulations is
being committed, shall issue notice/order to comply to the owner, administrator,
occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the building or structure,
indicating among other things, the period within which compliance shall be effected,
which shall be within ten (10) to fifteen (15) days after the receipt of the notice/order,
depending on the reasonableness to adequately comply with the same.

If, after the lapse of the aforesaid period, the owner, administrator, occupant or other
responsible person failed to comply, the Chief, BFP or his/her authorized representative
shall put up a sign in front of the building or structure that it is fire hazard. Specifically,
the notice shall bear the words "WARNING: THIS BUILDING/STRUCTURE IS A
FIRE HAZARD", which shall remain posted until such time that the owner,
administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the building,
structure and their premises or facilities abate the same, but such period shall not exceed
fifteen (15) days from the lapse of the initial period given in the notice/order to comply.

Finally, with the failure of the owner, administrator, occupant or other person
responsible for the condition of the building, structure and their premises or facilities to
comply within the period specified above, the Chief, BFP may issue order for such
abatement. If the owner, administrator or occupant of buildings, structure and their
premises or facilities does not abate the same within the period fixed in said order, the
building, structure, premises or facilities shall be ordered closed by the Chief, BFP or
his/her duly authorized representative notwithstanding any permit clearance or
certificate earlier issued by the local authorities.

Any building or structure assessed and declared by the chief, BFP or his/her duly
authorized representative as a firetrap on account of the gravity or palpability of the
violation or is causing clear and present imminent fire danger to adjoining
establishments and habitations shall be declared a public nuisance, as defined in the
Civil Code of the Philippines in a notice to be issued to the owner, administrator,
occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the building, structure and
their premises or facilities. If the assessed value of the nuisance or the amount to be
spent in abating the same is not more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00),
the owner, administrator or occupant thereof shall abate the hazard within fifteen (15)
days, or if the assessed value is more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00),
within thirty (30) days from receipt of the order declaring said building or structure a
public nuisance; otherwise, the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative
shall forthwith cause its summary abatement. failure to comply within five (5) days
from the receipt of the notice shall cause the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative to put up a sign in front of the building or structure, at or near the
entrance of such premises, notifying the public that such building or structure is a
"FIRETRAP", which shall remain until the owner, administrator, occupant or other
person responsible for the condition of the building, structure and their premises or
facilities abate the same within the specified period.

Summary abatement as used herein shall mean all corrective measures undertaken to
abate hazards which shall include, but not limited to remodeling, repairing,
strengthening, reconstructing, removal and demolition, either partial or total, of the
building or structure. The expenses incurred by the government for such summary
abatement shall be borne by the owner, administrator or occupant. These expenses shall
constitute a prior lien upon such property.

Section 9 details the "escalation ladder" the BFP follows when a building is
unsafe. It moves from simple warnings to public shaming, and finally, to forced
closure or demolition.

1. The Standard Enforcement Process

If a violation is found, the BFP follows this timeline:

 Notice to Comply: The owner gets 10 to 15 days to fix the issue.

 The "Fire Hazard" Sign: If ignored, the BFP posts a public warning sign on
the building. The owner gets another 15 days to comply.
 Closure Order: If still ignored, the BFP will officially close the building,
regardless of any existing business permits.

2. The "Firetrap" (Public Nuisance) Process

For extreme cases where the building is a "clear and present danger" to the
neighborhood:

 Declaration: The building is declared a Public Nuisance or Firetrap

 Abatement Period: * 15 days if the fix costs $P100,000$ or less.

30 days if the fix costs more than $P100,000$.

 The "Firetrap" Sign: If the owner doesn't act within 5 days of the notice, a
"FIRETRAP" sign is posted at the entrance.

3. Summary Abatement

If the owner refuses to act, the BFP will step in and do it themselves.

 Actions: Can include remodeling, total demolition, or removal of hazards.

 Cost: The owner pays all expenses incurred by the government. This debt
becomes a "prior lien" (legal claim) against the property.

Summary:

The BFP follows a Notice Posting Closure flow.

For dangerous "Firetraps," they can forcibly demolish the structure

at the owner's expense if safety deadlines are missed.

Section 10. Enforcement of The Lien. - If the owner, administrator or occupant fails to
reimburse the government of the expenses incurred in the summary abatement within
ninety (90) days from the completion of such abatement, the building or structure shall
be sold at public auction in accordance with existing laws and rules. No property
subject of lien under Section 9 hereof, may be sold at a price lower than the abatement
expenses incurred by the government. The property shall be forfeited in favor of the
government if the highest bid is not at least equal to the abatement expenses.

Summary: Section 10 outlines how the government recovers the money spent when
they are forced to fix or demolish a "firetrap" (Summary Abatement).

 The Reimbursement Process

 90-Day Deadline: The owner has 90 days after the BFP finishes the
cleanup/demolition to pay back the government's expenses.
 Public Auction: If the owner fails to pay, the building or property will be sold at a
public auction to the highest bidder.

 The Minimum Price Rule

 No Low-Balling: The property cannot be sold for less than what the government
spent on the abatement.
 Government Forfeiture: If no one bids high enough to cover the
government's expenses, the government takes full ownership of the property
(forfeiture).

Summary: If abatement costs aren't paid within 90 days, the property is auctioned.
The opening bid must at least cover the government's costs; otherwise, the
government seizes the property.

Section 11. Penalties. -

1. Against the private individual:

a) Administrative fine - Any person who violates any provision of the Fire Code or any
of the rules and regulations promulgated under this Act shall be penalized by an
administrative fine of not exceeding Fifty thousand (P50,000.00) pesos or in the proper
case, by stoppage of operations or by closure of such buildings, structures and their
premises or facilities which do not comply with the requirements or by both such
administrative fine and closure/stoppage of operation to be imposed by the Chief, BFP.
Provided, That the payment of the fine, stoppage of operations and/or closure of such
buildings, structures, and their premises or facilities shall not absolve the violator from
correcting the deficiency or abating the fire hazard. The decision of the Chief, BFP,
under this subsection, may be appealed to the Secretary of the Interior and Local
Government. Unless ordered by the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government the
appeal shall not stay the execution of the order of the Chief, BFP. The decision of the
Secretary of the Interior and Local Government shall be final and executory.

(b) Punitive - In case of willful failure to correct the deficiency or abate the fire hazard
as provided in the preceding subsection, the violator shall, upon conviction, be
punished by imprisonment of not less than six (6) months nor more than six (6) years,
or by a fine of not more than One hundred thousand (P100,000.00) pesos or both
such fine and imprisonment; Provided, however, that in case of a corporation, firm,
partnership or association, the fine and/or imprisonment shall be imposed upon its
officials responsible for such violation, and in case the guilty party is an alien, in
addition to the penalties herein prescribed, he shall immediately be deported; Provided,
finally, that were the violation is attended by injury, loss of life and/or damage to
property, the violator shall be proceeded against under the applicable provisions of the
Revised Penal Code.

Any person who, without authority, maliciously removes the sign that a building or
structure is a fire hazard/firetrap placed by the authorized person in this Code shall be
liable for imprisonment for thirty (30) days or a fine not exceeding One hundred
thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or both in the discretion of the court.

Any person, who disobeys the lawful order of the fire ground commander during a
firefighting operation shall be penalized with imprisonment of one (1) day to thirty (30)
days and a fine of five thousand pesos (P5,000.00).

2. Against the public officer/employee

a) Administrative - The following acts or omissions shall render the public

officer/employee in charge of the enforcement of this Code, its implementing rules and
regulation and other pertinent laws, administratively liable, and shall be punished by
reprimand, suspension or removal in the discretion of the disciplining authority,
depending on the gravity of the offense and without prejudice to the provisions of other
applicable laws:

(1)Unjustified failure of the public officer/employee to conduct inspection of buildings

or structures at least once a year;

(2) Deliberate
failure to put up a sign in front of the building or structure within his/her
area of responsibility found to be violating this Code, its implementing rules and
regulations and other pertinent laws, that the same is a "FIRE HAZARD" or a
"FIRETRAP";
(3)Endorsing to the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative for the
certification, or submitting a report that the building or structure complies with the
standards set by this Code, its implementing rules or regulations or other pertinent laws
when the same is contrary to fact;

(4) Issuance or renewal of occupancy or business permit without the fire safety
inspection certificate issued by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative;

(5)Failure to cancel the occupancy or business permit after the owner, administrator,
occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the building, structure and
other premises failed to comply with the notice/order for compliance with the standards
set by this Code, its implementing rules and regulations and other pertinent laws,
within the specified period;

(6) Failureto abate a public nuisance within fifteen (15) days after the owner,
administrator, occupant or other responsible person failed to abate the same within the
period contained in the notice to abate;

(7)Abusing his/her authority in the performance of his/her duty through acts of

corruption and other unethical practices; or

(8)Other willful impropriety or gross negligence in the performance of his/her duty as

provided in this act or its implementing rules and regulations.

b) Punitive - In the case of willful violation involving the abovementioned acts or

omissions enumerated under Section 11 subparagraph 2(A) the public
officer/employees shall, upon conviction, be punished by imprisonment of not less than
six (6) months nor more than six (6) years or by a fine of not more than One hundred
thousand (P100,000.00) or both such fine and imprisonment: Provided, That where the
violation is attended by injury, loss of life and/or property, the violator shall be
proceeded against under the applicable provisions of the Revised Penal Code.

Summary: this section stablishes the "teeth" of the Fire Code, ensuring both
building owners and government officials are held accountable. breakdown:

1. Penalties for Private Individuals

 Administrative (Fines & Closure): Fines up to 180°C—wait, wrong unit!
Fines up to ₱50,000, stoppage of operations, or building closure. Paying the
fine does not excuse you from fixing the hazard.
 Punitive (Jail & Heavy Fines):

A. Ignoring orders:6 months to 6 years in prison and/or a ₱100,000

fine.
B. Removing "Firetrap" signs: 30 days in jail or a ₱100,000 fine.
C. Disobeying Fire Commanders: 1 to 30 days in jail and a ₱5,000 fine.

 Special Cases: Corporations see their officials punished; foreigners face

immediate deportation.

2. Penalties for Public Officers (BFP/LGU Employees)

Government workers face disciplinary action (reprimand, suspension, or removal) and

criminal charges for:

A. Negligence: Failing to inspect buildings annually or failing to post "Firetrap"

signs.
B. Dishonesty: Submitting fake inspection reports or issuing permits without a Fire
Safety Certificate (FSIC).
C. Corruption: Abusing authority or failing to cancel permits of violators.
D. Criminal Charge: If the violation was intentional, they can be jailed for 6 months
to 6 years.

Summary Table

Target Administrative Punitive (Criminal)

Penalty Penalty

Private Citizens Up to ₱50k + 6 mos. to 6 yrs. jail +

Closure ₱100k fine

BFP/Public Suspension or 6 mos. to 6 yrs. jail +

Officers Removal ₱100k fine

Bottom Line: If a fire occurs and leads to injury or death due to these
violations, the Revised Penal Code kicks in, leading to much more severe
criminal prosecution for everyone involved.
Section 12. Appropriation and Sources of Income. -

(a) To support the manpower, infrastructure and equipment needs of the fire service of
the BFP, such amount as may be necessary to attain the objectives of the Fire Code
shall be appropriated and included in the annual appropriation of the BFP.

(b) To
partially provide for the funding of the fire service the following taxes and fees
which shall accrue to the General Fund of the National Government, are hereby
imposed:

(1)Fees to be charged for the issuance of certificates, permits and licenses as provided
for in Section 7 (a) hereof;

(2) One-tenth of one per centum (0.1%) of the verified estimated value of buildings or
structures to be erected, from the owner thereof, but not to exceed fifty thousand
(P50,000.00) pesos, one half to be paid prior to the issuance of the building permit, and
the balance, after final inspection and prior to the issuance of the use and occupancy
permit;

(3) One-hundredth of one per centum (0.10%) of the assessed value of buildings or
structures annually payable upon payment of the real estate tax, except on structures
used as single family dwellings;

(4) Two per centum (2%) of all premiums, excluding re-insurance premiums for the
sale of fire, earthquake and explosion hazard insurance collected by companies,
persons or agents licensed to sell such insurances in the Philippines;

(5)Two per centum (2%) of gross sales of companies, persons or agents selling fire
fighting equipment, appliances or devices, including hazard detection and warning
systems; and

(6) Two per centum (2%) of the service fees received from fire, earthquake, and
explosion hazard reinsurance surveys and post loss service of insurance adjustment
companies doing business in the Philippines directly through agents.

Section 12 explains where the BFP gets its funding. While the national government
provides a budget, the Fire Code also collects specific taxes and fees to pay for fire
trucks, equipment, and new fire stations.
1. Government Budget (Appropriations)

The National Government must include the BFP's needs for manpower and
infrastructure in its annual spending plan.

2. Sources of Income (Fire Code Fees)

The following fees are collected and sent to the National Treasury to fund the fire
service:

A. Service Fees: Costs for certificates, permits, and licenses.

B. Construction Tax: 0.1% of a new building’s estimated value (capped
at ₱50,000). Half is paid during the building permit phase, and the rest
before moving in.
C. Annual Property Tax: 0.10% of the assessed value of buildings, paid yearly
(except for single-family homes).
D. Insurance Tax: 2% of premiums collected from fire, earthquake, and
explosion insurance policies.
E. Sales Tax on Fire Gear: 2% of gross sales from companies selling
fire extinguishers, alarms, and other firefighting equipment.
F. Reinsurance/Adjustment Fees: 2% of service fees from insurance surveys
and post-loss adjustments.

Summary Table

Source Rate

New 0.1% of value

Construction (Max ₱50k)

Annual Building 0.10% of

Fee assessed value

Section 13. Collection of Taxes, Fees and Fines. - All taxes, fees and fines
provided in this Code, shall be collected by the BFP. Provided, That twenty percent
(20%) of such collection shall be set aside and retained for use by the city or municipal
government concerned, which shall appropriate the same exclusive for the use of the
operation and maintenance of its local fire station, including the construction and repair
of fire station: Provided, further, That the remaining eighty (80%) shall be remitted to
the National Treasury under a trust fund assigned for the modernization of the BFP.
"Sec. 13-A. Assessment of Fire Code Taxes, Fees and Fines. - The assessment of fire
code taxes, fees and fines is vested upon the BFP. The BFP shall, subject to the
approval of the DILG, prescribe the procedural rules for such purpose.

Sec. 13-B. Collection and Assessment of Local Taxes, Fees and Fines. - The collection
and assessment of taxes, fees and fines as prescribed in the Local Government Code,
except those contained in this Code, shall be function of the concerned local
government units.

Sec. 13-C. Use of Income Generated from the Enforcement of the Fire Code. - The
Chief, BFP is authorized, subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Interior and
Local Government, to use the income generated under the Fire Code for procurement
of fire protection and fire fighting investigation, rescue, paramedics, supplies and
materials, and related technical services necessary for the fire service and the
improvement of facilites of the Bureau of Fire Protection and abatement of fire hazards.

The BFP shall determine the optimal number of equipment, including, but not limited
to, fire trucks and fire hydrants, required by every local government unit for the proper
delivery of fire protection services in its jurisdiction.

In the procurement of fire fighting and investigation supplies and materials, the Bureau
of Product Standards of the Department of Trade and Industry shall evaluate, determine
and certify if the supply to procured conforms to the product standards fixed by the
BFP. For this purpose, the BFP shall submit to the Bureau of Product Standards a
detailed set of product standards that must be complied with in the procurement of fire
fighting and investigation supplies and materials within six (6) months from the
effectivity of this act.

Sec. 13-D. Monitoring the Implementation of the Fire Code and the Amount of the Fees
Collected. - The Chief, BFP shall, within six (6) month from the effectivity of this
Code, submit to the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government for his/her
approval, a management tool or mechanism that would ensure effective monitoring of
the enforcement of the Fire Code to include the amount of Fire Code fees collected.

Section 13 explains how Fire Code money is collected, split up, and spent. Here is the
simplified breakdown:
1. The 80/20 Money Split

All Fire Code taxes, fees, and fines are collected by the BFP and divided as follows:

 20% (Local Share): Stays with the City or Municipal Government. It

must be used only for the local fire station's operations, maintenance,
and repairs.
 80% (National Share): Sent to the National Treasury into a trust fund specifically
for BFP Modernization.

2. Authority and Standards

 Assessment: The BFP has the sole power to compute how much you owe in Fire
Code taxes/fees.
 Quality Control: When the BFP buys gear (like hoses or extinguishers), the
DTI (Bureau of Product Standards) must certify that the equipment meets
the BFP's strict safety standards.
 Planning: The BFP determines exactly how many fire trucks and hydrants each
town or city needs to be safe.

3. How the Money is Used (Section 13-C)

The Chief of the BFP can spend the generated income on:

 Firefighting and rescue equipment (trucks, paramedic gear).

 Investigation tools and hazardous material supplies.
 Improving BFP facilities and removing fire hazards.

4. Monitoring (Section 13-D)

The BFP must use a management tool approved by the DILG Secretary to track
every peso collected and ensure the Fire Code is being enforced properly.

The BFP collects the money; 20% goes to the local fire station, and 80% goes to
national modernization. All equipment bought must be DTI-certified, and the BFP
must strictly track all collections to prevent corruption.
Section 14. Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act, the Secretary of the
Interior and Local Government shall issue the rules and regulations for its effective
implementation.

Section 15. Presidential Decree No 1185 is hereby repealed. All laws, presidential
decrees, letters of instructions, executive orders, rules and regulations insofar as they
are inconsistent with this Act, are hereby repealed or amended as the case may be.

Section 16. In case any provision of this Act or any portion thereof is declared
unconstitutional by a competent court, other provisions shall not be affected thereby.

Section 17. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.

4. Republic Act No. 6975 (DILG Act of 1990)

 This law officially established the BFP and defined its specific mandate regarding
investigations.

CHAPTER IV
BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION

Section 53. Composition. – The Bureau of Fire Protection, hereinafter referred to as the
Fire Bureau, is hereby created initially consisting of the existing officers and uniformed
members of the fire service of the Integrated National Police as constituted under
Presidential Decree No. 765.

Section 54. Powers and Functions. – The Fire Bureau shall be responsible for the
prevention and suppression of all destructive fires on buildings, houses and other
structures, forest, land transportation vehicles and equipment, ships or vessels docked
at piers or wharves or anchored in major seaports, petroleum industry installations,
plane crashes and other similar incidents, as well as the enforcement of the Fire Code
and other related laws.

The Fire Bureau shall have the power to investigate all causes of fires and, if necessary,
file the proper complaints with the city or provincial prosecutor who has jurisdiction
over the case.
Section 55. Organization. – The Fire Bureau shall be headed by a chief who shall be
assisted by a deputy chief. It shall be composed of provincial offices, district offices
and city or municipal stations.

At the provincial level, there shall be an office of the provincial fire marshall which
shall implement the policies, plans and programs of the Department; and monitor,
evaluate and coordinate the operations and activities of the fire service operating units
at the city and municipal levels. In the case of large provinces, district offices may be
established, to be headed by a district fire marshall.

At the city or municipal level, there shall be a fire station, each headed by a city or
municipal fire marshall: Provided, That, in the case of large cities and municipalities, a
district office with subordinate fire stations headed by a district fire marshall may be
organized as necessary.

The Fire Chief shall recommended to the Secretary the organizational structure and
staffing pattern, as well as the disciplinary machinery for officers and men of the
Bureau, in accordance with the guidelines set forth herein and as provided in Section
85 of this Act.

The local government units at the city and municipal levels shall be responsible for the
fire protection and various emergency services such as rescue and evacuation of
injured people at fire-related incidents and, in general, all fire prevention and
suppression measures to secure the safety of life and property of the citizenry.

Section 56. Establishment of Fire Station. – There shall be established at least one (1)
fire station with adequate personnel, firefighting facilities and equipment in every
provincial capital, city and municipality subject to the standards, rules and regulations
as may be promulgated by the Department. The local government unit shall, however,
provide the necessary and or site of the station.

Section 57. Qualification Standards. – The qualification standards of the members of

the Fire Bureau shall be as prescribed by the Department based on the requirement of
the service.
Section 58. Rank Classification. – For purposes of efficient administration, supervision
and control, the rank classification of the members of the Fire Bureau shall be as
follows:

Director

Chief Superintendent

Senior Superintendent

Superintendent

Chief Inspector

Senior Inspector

Inspector

Senior Fire Officer IV

Senior Fire Officer III

Senior Fire Officer II

Senior Fire Officer I

Fire Officer III

Fire Officer II

Fire Officer I

Section 59. Key Positions. – The head of the Fire Bureau with the rank of director shall
have the position title of Chief of the Fire Bureau. He shall be assisted by a deputy
chief with the rank of chief superintendent.

The assistant heads of the Department's regional offices with the rank of senior
superintendent shall assume the position title of Assistant Regional Director for Fire
Protection as provided in Section 11 of this Act; the heads of the NCR district offices
with the rank of senior superintendent shall have the position title of District Fire
Marshall; the heads of the provincial offices with the rank of superintendent shall be
known as Provincial Fire Marshall; the heads of the district offices with the rank of
chief inspector shall have the position title of District Fire Marshall; and the heads of
the municipal or city stations with the rank of senior inspector shall be known as Chief
of Municipal/City Fire Station.
Sections 53 to 59 of Republic Act No. 6975 (The DILG Act of 1990) serve as the
foundation of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). These sections transitioned fire
services from the police to a dedicated professional bureau.

Section 53. Composition

This section officially created the BFP as a separate bureau under the DILG,
composed of all officers and uniformed/non-uniformed personnel of the fire
service from the old Integrated National Police (INP).

Example 1: A 1980s firefighter who wore a police-style uniform was officially

transferred to the new, distinct BFP service in 1991.

Section 54. Powers and Functions

The BFP is responsible for fire prevention and suppression of all destructive fires on
buildings, structures, forests, and even ships docked at piers. Crucially, it gives the
BFP the power to investigate fire causes and file arson cases.

Example 1: If a forest fire breaks out, the BFP is the primary agency tasked
with putting it out and finding the person responsible.

Section 55. Organization

The BFP is structured into a National Headquarters (headed by the Chief, BFP),
Regional Offices, and Provincial, City, and Municipal levels.

Example 1: The Chief, BFP issues a nationwide policy from the main office in
Quezon City that every regional office must

follow.

Section 56. Establishment of Fire Stations

This mandates that there must be at least one fire station in every provincial capital,
city, and municipality in the Philippines.
Example 1: A newly created town in a remote province is legally entitled to have
its own fire station and fire truck.2: The BFP requesting budget from Congress to
build a sub-station in a large city to improve response times.
Section 57. Qualification Standards

To join the BFP, you must meet specific standards: Filipino citizenship, good moral
character, a college degree, and passing the required civil service or professional
board exams.

Example 1: A candidate being disqualified because they do not have a Bachelor's

degree, even if they are physically fit.

Section 58. Rank Classification

This section established the hierarchy of ranks within the BFP, ranging from Fire
Officer I (the entry-level) to Director (the highest rank/Chief, BFP).

Example 1: A new recruit starts as a Fire Officer I (FO1) and must undergo
years of service and training to become a Senior Inspector.

Section 59. Key Positions

This defines the leadership. The BFP is headed by a Chief with the rank of Director,
assisted by two Deputy Chiefs (one for Administration and one for Operations).

Example 1: The Chief, BFP signing a major contract for new fire trucks with the
help of the Deputy Chief for Operations.

Summary Checklist:

53-54: Who we are and what we do (Firefighting & Arson

Investigation).
 55-56: How we are structured and where

we must be located (Every town). 57-59:

Who can join, how high they can climb,

and who leads the group.

DEFINITION OF TERMS IN FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION

1. Accelerant refers to any material used to initiate or promote the spread of a fire. They
are usually in the form of flammable or combustible fluids. It can be a solid, liquid or in
some instances, a gas.
2. Adiabatic flame temperature theoretically, the highest temperature at which a fuel can
burn.
3. Area of origin the area where a fire started. This term is used when a fire originates in a
large area or when the exact point of origin cannot be determined.
4. Arson a criminal act of setting fire to a building or other property on purpose.
5. Arson trail the use of various types of materials such as cloth rags, newspapers, or wood
that have some type pf flammable liquid poured on the material by which the fire can
travel along. This trail can leave a distinct mark on the floor of a fire scene.
6. Asbestos a white or light-gray mineral, obtained primarily from actinolite and
amphibole, occurring in long slender needles or fibrous masses that may be woven or
shaped into acid-resisting, non- conducting, and fire proof articles.
7. Atomize to break into discrete atoms, usually by the application of extreme heat, as in
atomic absorption.
8. Auto-ignition temperature the lowest temperature at which a gas or vapor air mixture
will ignite from its own heat source or a contacted heated surface without a spark or
flame.
9. Azeotrope a mixture of two or more compounds that have a constant boiling point.
These mixtures cannot be separated by fractional distillation.
10. Boiling point refers to the temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the
atmospheric pressure and the liquid becomes vapor.
11. Burn pattern the visible path of fire on a surface or surfaces.
12. Burning normal combustion in which the oxidant is molecular oxygen.
13. Burning rate, the rate at which combustion proceeds across a fuel.
14. Butane a fuel gas having the formula C4 [Link] of the constituents found in LP gas.
15. Catalyst a substance that increases the rate of chemical reaction without undergoing a
permanent change in its structure.
16. Chain reaction a self-propagating chemical reaction in which activation on one molecule
leads successfully to the activation of many others. One type of chain reaction is called
combustion reaction.
17. Combustion an exothermic chain reaction between oxidation and reducing agents or
between oxygen and fuel.
18. Compound a chemical combination of two or more elements or two or more different
atoms arranged in the same proportions and in the same structure throughout the
substance. A compound is different from a mixture in that the components of a mixture
are not chemically bonded together.
19. Conductivity the ability of a material to transfer energy from one place to another.
Conductivity is the opposite of resistivity.
20. Conductivity (thermal) describes a substance’s ability to transmit heat.
21. Conductivity (electrical) describes a substance’s ability to transmit electrical current.
22. Control zones areas at a hazardous materials incident whose boundaries are based on
safety and the degree of hazard generally includes the hot zone, decontamination zone,
and support zone.
23. Convection transfer of heat by the movement of molecules in a gas or liquid with the less
dense fluid rising. The majority of heat transfer in a fire is by convection.
24. Deflagrate to burn with intense heat and light.
25. Ethyl-benzene a component of gasoline but also a major breakdown product of pyrolysis
released when certain polymers are heated.
26. Evaporation conversion of a liquid to the vapor state by the addition of latent heat.
27. Evaporation rate a measure of the quantity of a liquid converted to vapor in a unit of
time. Among single component liquids, the rate varies directly with the surface area, the
temperature and vapor pressure are inversely with the latent heat of vaporization of the
liquid.
28. Exothermic reaction a chemical reaction that involves heat; combustion reaction is a type
of exothermic reaction.
29. Explosion the sudden conversion of chemical energy into kinetic energy with the release
of heat, light, and mechanical shock.
30. Explosion limit Also known as flammability limit, it refers to the highest or lowest
concentration of a flammable gas or vapor in air that will explode or burn readily when
ignited. This limit is usually expressed as a volume percent of gas or vapor in air.
31. Explosives compounds that are unstable and breakdown with the sudden release of large
amount of energy.
32. Fire the light and heat manifested by the rapid oxidation of combustible materials. A
flame may be manifested but is not required.
33. Explosivity the characteristics of undergoing very rapid decomposition or combustion to
release large amounts of energy. Fire the light and heat manifested by the rapid
oxidation of combustible materials. A flame may be manifested but is not required.
34. Fire load amount of material that can burn.
35. Fire pattern marks left by fire, smoke, and soot on structures and devices.
36. Fire point the temperature generally a few degrees above the flash point at which
burning is self-sustaining after removal of an ignition source.
37. Fire Tetrahedron fuel, heat, oxygen and a chemical chain reaction.
38. Fire Triangle refers to fuel, heat and oxygen.
39. Flame a rapid gas phase combustion process characterized by self- propagation.
40. Flammable able to ignite and burn
41. Flammable liquid a combustible liquid that has a flash point below 100 degrees
Fahrenheit. Liquids having a vapor pressure of over 40 psi at 100 degrees Fahrenheit
are classified as flammable gases.
42. Flammable explosive ranges the range of gas or vapor concentration (percentage of
volume in air) that will burn or explode if an ignition source is present.
43. Flammable vapor a vapor air mixture of any concentration within the flammable range
of that vapor.
44. Flash a general term for any auxiliary, sudden, brilliant light.
45. Flash fire a fire that spreads with usual speed as one that races over flammable liquids
or through combustible gases.
46. Flash point the temperature at which a pool of liquid will generate sufficient vapor to
form an ignitable vapor/air mixture.
47. Fraction one of the portions of a volatile liquid within certain boiling point ranges such
as petroleum naphtha fraction or gas-oil fractions.
48. Freezing point temperature at which crystals start to form as a liquid is slowly cooled,
alternatively, the temperature at which a solid substance begins to melt as it is slowly
heated.
49. Flashback the movement of a flame to a fuel source; typically occurs via the vapor of a
highly volatile liquid or by a flammable gas escaping from the cylinder.
50. Fuel oil heavy petroleum distillate ranging from 1 (kerosene or range oil), up to 6
(heavy bunker fuel). In order for it to be identified as fuel oil, a sample must exhibit a
homologous series of normal alkaline ranging from C9 and upward.
51. Fume gas, smoke, or vapor that smells strongly or is dangerous to smell.
52. Fume hood an enclosed laboratory cabinet with a movable sash or fixed access port on
the front, connected to a ventilating system that may incorporate air scrubbing or
filtering facilities. In operation it draws in and then exhaust air from the lab to prevent or
minimize the escape of air contaminants. It enables employees to manipulate materials
in the hood using only their hands and arms.
53. Gas a physical state of matter that has low density and viscosity , can expand and
contract greatly in response to changes in temperature and pressure and readily and
uniformly distributes itself throughout any container.
54. Gas chromatograph are used to identify unknown compounds such as debris collected
from arson’s, on the basis of the retention time or relative retention time of a peak under
certain operating conditions.
55. Gas chromatography a separation technique involving passage of a gas as the mobile
phase, moving through a column containing a fixed adsorbent material. It is used
principally as a quantitative analytical technique for volatile compounds or simple gases.
56. Gasoline refine petroleum used as fuel for internal combustion engine. A mixture of
more than 2 volatile hydrocarbons in the range of C4 to C12, suitable for use in a spark
 ignited internal combustion engine. Regular automotive gasoline has a flash point of -40
degrees Fahrenheit.
57. Headspace concentration a technique for concentration of all or most of the flammable
or combustible liquid vapors in a sample on to a tube of charcoal, a wire coated with
charcoal, a charcoal-coated polymer, or some other adsorbing material that will later be
desorbed in order to analyze the concentrated vapor. This is primary form of sample
preparation in arson debris analysis. This is also known as adsorption/elution, vapor
concentration, or total headspace.
58. Heat a mode of energy associated with and proportional to molecular motion that may
be transferred from one body to another by conduction, convection or radiation.
59. is energy transferred from one system to another by thermal interaction.
60. High explosives explosives that produce an extremely intense explosive effect and a
supersonic pressure wave when they detonate.
61. Hot zone the area immediately surrounding a chemical hazard incident.
62. Ignition the means by which burning is started.
63. Ignition temperature the minimum temperature to which a fuel must be heated in order
to initiate or cause self-sustained combustion independent of another heat source.
64. Ignition source location of a flame, arc, spark or chemical reaction that provides
sufficient heat energy in the presence of a fuel and an oxidizer to initiate combustion.
65. Incendiaries substances or mixtures of substances consisting of a fuel and an oxidizer
used to initiate a fire.
66. Incendiary fire intentionally set by human hands often involving the use of an accelerant
to increase and spread the rate and intensity of burning.
67. Incidental accelerants
68. flammable or combustible liquids that are usual and incidental to an area where they are
detected.
69. Intumescent char in plastics, the swelling and charring that results in a higher ignition
point used in the preparation of flame retardant materials.
70. Ion an atom, molecule or radical that has lost or gained one or more electrons thus,
acquiring an electric charge. positively charge ions are cations. Negatively charge ions
are anions.
71. Kelvin unit of temperature (K) measurement used to measure the color temperature of
light.
72. Kerosene a flammable hydrocarbon oil used as fuel in lamps and heaters.
73. Liquid accelerant combustible or flammable liquid used to accelerate ignition and
spread of fire.
74. Low explosive explosives having a detonation less violent than high explosives and that
produce a subsonic pressure wave.
75. Magnesium (Mg) a silvery metal used in some metal incendiaries, the dust is highly
explosive with an ignition point of 650 degrees Fahrenheit.
76. Molecule the smallest particle into which a substance can be divided without changing
its chemical properties. A molecule of an element consists of one atom or two or more
atoms that are similar. A molecule of a compound consists of two or more different
atoms.
77. Origin determination observing a fire scene, collecting and analyzing evidence and
conducting interviews with witnesses to determine where the fire began.
78. Oxidation a chemical reaction in which oxygen combines with another substance.
79. Pentane is usually used to extract flammable or combustible liquid residues from fire
debris samples.
80. Plant an ignition device that ignites the first fuel or assists the initial flame to build in
intensity, it may include a timing mechanism.
81. Polarity the measure of an electrical charge on a molecule. Most flammable or
combustible liquids are non-polar.
82. Potassium nitrate (KNO3) transparent, colorless, or white crystalline powder or crystals
used in pyrotechnics, explosives, matches, metallurgy and glass manufacture.
83. Propane an alkaline having the formula C3H8. It is the major constituents of LP gas with
an explosive limit of 2.4 to 9% One cubic foot of propane has a heating value of 2500
BTU.
84. Pyrolysis decomposition by the application of or as a result of heat.
85. Pyromania an irresistible impulse or compulsion to start a fire or set something on fire.
86. Pyrophoric distillation the slow drying and passive pyrolysis of wood materials.
87. Serial arson three or more separate arson events with an emotional cooling off period
between fires.
88. Spontaneous heating also known as spontaneous combustion, initially a slow exothermic
reaction at ambient temperatures. Liberated heat, if undissipated (insulated), accumulates
at an increasing rate and may lead to spontaneous ignition of any combustible present.
89. Trailer fast burning materials used by arsonist as fuses to rapidly spread fire throughout a
structure or area. ex, s linear pour of a liquid accelerant or distribution of a twisted sheet
of paper that will lead a fire from one location to another.
90. Turpentine
91. Gum-form – the pitch obtained from living pine trees, a sticky viscous liquid.
92. Oil-form – a volatile liquid obtained by steam distillation of gum turpentine consisting
mainly of pine and deterpene. Turpentine is frequently identified in debris samples
containing burned wood from arson cases.
93. V-shape pattern fire pattern seen when a flame impinges on a vertical surface.
94. Vapor the gaseous form of a substance that is normally a solid or a liquid at room
temperature and pressure.
95. Vapor density the weight of a given volume of a vapor or a gas compare to the weight of
an equal volume of dry air, both measured at the same temperature and pressure
96. Vapor pressure a measure of the tendency of a liquid to become a gas at a given
temperature.
97. Vaporization the physical change of going from a solid or a liquid into a gaseous status.
98. Vermiculite a micaceous hydrated silicate mineral used as a planting medium and as
insulation.
99. Vestibule is a lobby, entrance hall, or passage between the entrance and the interior of a
building.
100. Volatile prone to rapid oxidation. Both combustible and non-combustible materials may
be volatile.
FINALS COVERAGE

LESSON: 4 FIRE SAFETY FRAMEWORKS

Organization and Training of Fire Brigades
RA 9514 Revised Implementing Rules & Regulations (RIRR) of RA 9514
RULE 6. FIRE BRIGADES, FIRE VOLUNTEER ORGANIZA TIONS AND FIRE
SAFE TY PRACTITIONERS

DIVISION 1. SCOPE
This Rule shall govern the organization, equipage. operation, and proficiency training of
company and community fire brigades as well as continuous training and competency
evaluation of fire volunteers and fire volunteer organizations in the country who shall
undergo mandatory fire prevention, fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services and
other related emergency response training programs and competency evaluations to be
conducted 18 by the BFP. This also prescribes the continuous professional education,
competency evaluation and recognition of Fire Safety Practitioners, to be conducted by the
BFP. For this purpose, the term "company" shall include government and/or private offices
and buildings.

DIVISION 2. ORGANIZATION OF FIRE BRIGADES

A. SECTION [Link] REQUIREMENTS

B. All business establishments that can accommodate at least fifty (50) persons shall, in
addition to the requirements set forth under Section 7 of this Code for the grant of Fire
Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC), establish and maintain an organization of fire
brigade to deal with fire and other related emergencies. The head of the company,
through its duly designated safety officer shall evaluate the potential magnitude of a
fire emergency within the company, and the availability of firefighting assistance
from the BFP to determine the nature of the organization to be established.
C. For buildings having various occupancies, the Building Administrator and/or owner
shall initiate the organization of a fire brigade in the premises irrespective of the
number of occupants.
D. In cases where a fire brigade is already established for a building, said fire brigade
shall be sufficient to comply with the requirements of para "A" of this Section.
E. All barangays shall likewise endeavor to organize their own fire brigades.
F. All fire volunteer organizations, barangay fire brigades, and company and industrial
fire brigades may be incorporated in the Bureau of Fire Protection Auxiliary (BFPA)
subject to the form and
function established by the BFP.

SECTION [Link] .COMPOSITION

1
The organization of company fire brigades shall consist of the Fire Brigade Chief, which
shall be designated by the head of the company, and shall be assisted by selected personnel In
companies where more persons are available, they must be organized into teams to function
as a fire brigade established according to its needs. The organization shall be such that a fire
brigade is on duty or on call at all times.

SECTION 6.0.2.3COMPONENTS

The equipment that must be put into service during fire or other related emergencies will
deterine the number of men required for each operating unit or company into which the
brigade is organized, and the total number may be composed of two (2) or more individuals
to operate a specific item of equipment or a larger group to perform more complicated
operations. Each fire brigade shall have a Leader or a Chief. In his/her absence, an
AssistantChief shall be appointed

SECTION [Link] DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A FIRE BRIGADE CHIEF

A. He/She shall be responsible for the development of fire prevention programs and plans of
action for the company or organization to address possible fire situation in the plant or
community, subject to the approval of the company or establishment head or fire prevention
officer;
B. He/She shal initiate the procurement of necessary firefightng equipment and supplies for
use of the brigades;
C. He/She shall conduct periodic evaluation of all equipment available for firefighting and be
responsible for setting in motion necessary procedures for replacing missing equipment or
correction of inoperative equipment,
D. He/She shall also bring to the immediate attention of the company or establishment head,
or his/her fire prevention officer, any situation that would likely reduce the effectiveness of
firefighting operations;

SECTION [Link] QUALIFICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP IN THE COMPANY FIRE

BRIGADE

Members ot the tire brigade shall consist ot persons who have met qualitications appropriate
tor the tire brigade work. For establishments, members must be taken trom the roster ot its
owr workforce. The head of the company shall identify the persons who are fit to perform fire
operation activities and turther assign them to specitic tire suppression positions.

SECTION [Link] AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL

To qualify as a member of a fire brigade, individuals must be available to respond to fire

alarms and attend required training programs. A pre-arranged schedule for availability must
be established to prevent conflict of duties and to cover absences such as regular off-duty
periods, vacations and sickness.

2
B. FIRE SAFETY PRACTITIONERS AND VOLUNTEERS
CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY (COC)
• Issued after completion of mandatory BFP training
• Requires competency evaluation
• Applies to fire volunteers, fire volunteer
organizations, and fire safety practitioners
• Not applicable to company fire brigades

REQUIREMENTS FOR COC

• Certificate of completion of training
• Certificate of employment (for fire safety
practitioners)
• Other documents required by the BFPigades

ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATE
• Fire Safety Practitioners → Chief, BFP
• Fire Volunteers & Organizations → Regional
Directors
• Based on guidelines issued by the Chief, BFP

TRAINING DESIGN
• Developed by the BFP
• Required for all fire volunteers and practitioners
• Ensures standard competency and readiness

SCOPE OF TRAINING (VOLUNTEERS & BRIGADES)

• Fire prevention
• Fire suppression
• Rescue operations
• Emergency medical services
• Use of fire equipment, tools, and devices
• Fire suppression strategies, tactics, and
techniques
SCOPE OF TRAINING (PRACTITIONERS)
• Continuous professional education
• Competency evaluation
• Fire science, engineering, and technology
• Skills enhancement through BFP evaluation

TRAINING ASSISTANCE
• BFP assists in organizing training programs
• Seminars and special training classes provided
• Opportunities for skill improvement in fire
response
IDENTIFICATION
• Fire volunteer members must wear ID cards
• Signed by organization head
• Authenticated by local BFP office

3
PRACTICE DRILLS
• Used to test readiness and response capability
• May be conducted under adverse weather
conditions
• Improves real-life emergency performance

EQUIPMENT USE & MAINTENANCE

• All fire and rescue equipment must be used
during drills
• Equipment must be restored after use
• Maintenance schedules assigned by Fire Brigade
Chief

COMMAND AT FIRE SCENE

• Fire brigades operate under fire ground
commanders
• Must follow BFP operational guidelines
• Ensures coordinated and effective firefighting
operations
•

LESSON 5: FIRE FIGHTING OPERATION AND INVESTIGATION

SCOPE of Lesson 5
A. Selected Fire Fighting Operations
B. Installation on facility, building, and structure
C. Fire and Arson Investigation. Determination of the origin of fire, cause, and liability
D. Provisions on the RPC on Arson and crimes involving destruction as amended by PD
1613 and PD 1744.

Selected Firefighting operations

Firefighting operations in the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) encompass a
comprehensive 10-phase approach involving fire suppression, rescue, and hazardous
materials management to protect life and property.
Key Operations: Structural fire suppression, special rescue (urban, high-angle, water), and
Emergency Medical Services.
These operations, guided by pre-fire planning, fire control, and, post-fire analysis

Key Firefighting operations: 10 phases

1. Size-up: Mental evaluation by the ground commander to assess the fire situation.
2. Rescue Operation: Locating. Extricating, and stabilizing victims.
3. Cover Exposure-fire planning: Pre-incident preparation, including building
inspections.
4. Salvage: Protecting adjacent structures to prevent fire spread.
5. Confinement: Restricting the fire to a specific area.

4
 6. Ventilation: Releasing trapped heat and smoke.
7. Extinguishment: Actively lowering heat and putting out fire.
8. Salvage: Protecting property from damage (water/smoke).
9. Overhaul: Ensuring the fire is completely out to prevent re-ignition.
10. Post-fire Analysis: Reviewing the operation to improve future

Specialized Firefighting operations

Special Rescue Operations - Including confined space rescue, high-angle/high rise rescue,
and trench rescue.

Hazardous Material (HazMat) Operations – Responding to chemical, biological, radiological,

and nuclear threats.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) – Providing medical aid during fire and disaster
responses.

Vehicular Accident Rescue – Extricating victims from vehicle accidents.

Examples of Specialized firefighting:

 High-rise building fires

 Basement fires
 LPG and tanker fires
 Ship/Vessel fires in ports
 Forest Fires

Installation, facility, building, structure

 Installations, facilities buildings, and structures are critical components in firefighting
operations and investigation, functioning both as the arena where fire behavior is
dictated and as a collection of systems (passive and active) designed to control,
detect, or suppress fires.
 They define the hazards, facilitate or hinder suppression efforts, and provide vital
evidence for determining the origin and cause of a fire.
 Building Construction and Layout (Structural Factors)
The building structure (floors, roof, support systems) influences fire growth and
structural stability. Firefighters must recognize construction types (e.g., type I fire-
resistive, type V wood frame) to predict collapse potential and establish safe zones.
 Compartmentation
Buildings are often divided into fire zones using fire-resistant walls and doors, which
restricts the spread of fire, smoke, and heat, allowing firefighters to confine the fire to
a smaller area.
 Active Fire Protection Systems
These include automatic sprinklers, fire pumps, standpipes, and alarm systems that
respond to fire. High-rise buildings often require specialized systems, such as wet
risers (pipes with hydrants) on every floor press

5
Comparison table of Approach

Features Firefighting Operations Fire Investigation

Goal Extinguish, Rescue, Control Determine Origin and Cause
Structural Focus Stability, Access, Evaluation Burn Patterns, Failure Points
System Focus Using Sprinklers or Hydrants Checking System
Functionality
Action Rapid Tactical Decision Methodical Scene
Reconstruction

Fire and Arson Investigation.

-This is the process of examining a fire scene to determine where it started, how it was
started, and who is responsible.
Determination of the origin of fire
Origin – The exact Location where the fire began (also called the point of origin)
Determination of Fire: How it is determined?
 Examining burn patterns – charring, heat damage, and smoke marks that show the
direction and spread of fire.
 Identifying the lowest or most heavily burned area – this is often where the fire
started.
Checking for signs of tampering, unusual objects, or devices that could start a fire.

Three Causes of Fire:

Accidental – caused by human error, negligence, or natural events.

Examples: unattended cooking, faulty wiring, lightning strikes, or overheated appliances.

Natural – caused by nature—e.g., lightning, spontaneous combustion of materials, or volcanic

activity.

Intentional (Arson) – deliberately set fire with intent to cause damage, harm, or gain. May be
for insurance fraud, revenge, hiding a crime, or other motives.

Liabilities
Liabilities refers to legal or financial responsibility for the fire and its consequences.

Civili Liability – it applies when a person or entity is negligent or fails to follow safety rules.

Criminal Liability – it applies when the fire is caused by a crime, such as arson, reckless
burning, or violation of safety laws. The responsible person may face imprisonment, fines, or
other penalties.

6
Provisions of the rpc on arson and crimes involving destruction
The Revised Penal Code (RPC) of the Philippines, as amended by Presidential Decree (PD)
1613 and PD 1744, defines and penalizes arson and related crimes.

BASIC PROVISIONS

Simple Arson (Article 320 of RPC as amended by PD 1613) – Offense: Burning or setting
fire to property, whether belonging to oneself or another.

Elements:
Intentional act of burning
Property is exposed to danger of life or property of others even if owned by the offender.
Penalty: Prision Mayor, 6 years and 1 day to 12 years’ imprisonment.

Destructive Arson (Article 320 of RPC as amended by PD 1744) – it applies when the fire
involves specific types of property or situations, like buildings, hospitals, hotels, markets,
schools, or places of assembly that threaten the public security.

Elements:
Malicious burning of vital infrastructure, public structures, or buildings where people
congregate.

1. Includes ammunition factories, oil depots, public utilities, ships, airplanes, and
warehouse.
2. Property burned to conceal a crime, defraud creditors, or collect insurance money.
3. Buildings in populated areas, or those used for public services
Penalty:

Reclusion temporal (12 years and 1 day to 20 years) to reclusion perpetua (20 years and 1
day to 40 years). Death penalty was abolished by RA 9346, so maximum penalty is reclusion
perpetua.

Provisions of the RPC on arson and crimes involving destruction

PENALTIES AND CONSEQUENCES:

Fines
Additional fines based on the value of damaged property, ranging from thousands to millions
of pesos.

Accessory Penalties
Perpetual disqualification from holding public office, loss of rights related to the crime, and
payment of damages to victims.

Aggravating Circumstances
Increase penalties if the crime is committed at night, by a group, results in death or injury, or

7
is done to cover up another crime.

CASES
G.R. No. 204544 – Marlon Bacerra y Tabones vs People of the Philippines
G.R. No. 142565 – People of the Philippines vs Soriano

Statistic reports
According to the BFP, arson incidents account for about 5-10% of all fire cases in the
Philippines annually.

Most common causes of fire year to year:

1. Electrical Connections – usually due to arcing or loose connection

2. Smoking – lighted cigarettes or cigars carelessly discarded.

3. Open Flames/Cooking – unattended LPG stoves, firewood or kerosene lamps

 Most arson cases are committed for financial gain, revenge, or to hide illegal
activities.
 Residential areas and commercial establishments are the most common locations
for arson fires.

The vast majority of incidents are accidental or due to negligence

BFP investigation divisions process intentional incidents (arson) by gathering evidence,
filing sworn statements, and bringing complaints to city or provincial prosecutors

Statistic reports
- At any given period, a significant portion of reported fires often between 10% and 40%
depending on the region, remain tagged as “under investigation” pending laboratory tests,
interviews, and post-fire.

Presumption under PD 1613

 If a fire is found to have started in an unusual way, or if materials used to start fires
are found at the scene, it is presumed to be intentional. (intent to commit arson)
 Burden of proof lies with the accused to prove fire was accidental or not intentional

Lesson 6: Arson Investigation

8
A. Evidence needed to establish an arson case
-To establish an arson case, investigators and prosecutors generally need to prove two main
things: that a fire was intentionally set and who is responsible for setting it. This is usually
done through a combination of physical, forensic, and testimonial evidence.

1. Proof that the fire was intentional (Corpus Delicti) Authorities must show the fire did
not start accidentally.
1. Presence of accelerants (like gasoline or kerosene) detected through lab analysis
2. Burn patterns indicating deliberate ignition (e.g., multiple points of origin)
3. Signs of forced entry or tampering with electrical systems
4. Elimination of natural or accidental causes (like faulty wiring)
2. Physical and forensic evidence
a) Fire debris samples analyzed by forensic experts
b) Tools or materials used to start the fire (matches, lighters, containers)
c) Fingerprints, DNA, or trace evidence found at the scene
d) CCTV footage or photos placing a suspect at the location
3. Witness testimony
1. Eyewitness accounts of suspicious behavior
2. Statements from neighbors or bystanders
3. Testimony about threats, disputes, or motives
4. Motive and intent
1. Insurance claims suggesting fraud
2. Personal grudges, revenge, or financial problems
3. Prior threats or incriminating statements
5. Suspect linkage
a) Surveillance showing presence near the time of the fire
b) Possession of accelerants or burn-related injuries
c) Confessions or admissions
6. Expert testimony
1. Fire investigators explaining how the fire started
2. Forensic chemists confirming accelerants
3. Other specialists supporting the cause and origin findings

B. INTERVIEW AND INTERROGATION OF SUSPECTS, WITNESSES,

OCCUPANTS AND OTHERS.
1. INTERVIEW
-friendly, systematic conversation with persons having knowledge of facts; done to
gather information, voluntary in nature
2. INTERROGATION
-rigorous questioning of suspects or uncooperative persons;purpose is to obtain
admission or confession; formal and legal process
3. WITNESSES
-are people who saw or heard something related to the fire. They are not necessarily
inside the building they can be neighbors, passersby, or anyone nearby.
[Link]
-are the people who live in or are inside the building when the fire happened.

CASES: Dante Buebos and Sarmelito Buebos vs. People of the Philippines G.R. No. 163938,
March 28, 2008

9
People of the Philippines vs. Nestor G. Soriano Alias "Boy" G.R. No. 142565, July 29, 2003

C. REPORT WRITING

I. AFTER OPERATION REPORT

-An After Operation Report (AOR) is a detailed written account submitted after the
completion of a police operation, raid, investigation, or special mission. Its main purpose is
to document what happened, evaluate performance, and serve as an official record for legal
and administrative review.

Key Parts of an After Operation Report:

a. Heading
b. Authority
c. Mission
d. Personnel Involved
e. Narrative of Events
f. Results
g. Problems Encountered
h. Recommendations
i. Signatories

II. STATUS REPORT

-A Status Report is a periodic or situational update on an ongoing case, project, or operation.
Unlike the AOR which is final, a status report is submitted while the activity is still in
progress.

Key Parts of a Status Report:

a. Heading:
b. Reference:
c. Current Situation:
d. Actions Taken:
e. Results/Findings:
f. Problems/Obstacles:
g. Recommendations/Next Steps:
h. Signatories:
III. INVESTIGATION REPORT
-This is the official document prepared by fire investigators or law enforcement. It
serves as the factual foundation of the case that contains the Basic details, Evidence,
Narrative or witness statement and Findings.
-To determine the origin and cause of the fire, assess damage, identify responsible
parties and recommend measures to prevent recurrence. It will serves as legal evidence, basis
for insurance claims and reference for policy improvements.

IV. NOTICE TO COMPLY

-This is a formal order usually issued by the Fire Department or local authority.
This is to legally require the property owner or occupant to fix identified hazards within a
specified time. Failure to comply may result in fines, legal action or even closure of the
premises. A re-inspection is usually scheduled to verify compliance.

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 V. NOTICE TO CORRECT VIOLATION
-This is an official warning issued by authorities (usually fire safety inspectors) when a
building or establishment violates fire safety regulations.

VI. ABATEMENT ORDER

-This is a legal order directing the immediate correction or removal of a fire hazard or
dangerous condition.

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