25 August 2010
Posted in
BoholLife Blog -
Daily Life in Bohol
Fire Point Blocked by Retail Stall
The recent bus crash in Baguio, sparked calls for greater controls on public safety standards. I thought I would take a quick look at how “The Public”, are treated with regards to general safety here in Tagbilaran.
Before and after - Fire Point Now Cleared
Spending a lot of my time walking around Tagbilaran, I have to say that public safety, is not given much attention at all.
I recently stopped for a coffee at the local Mall. While waiting for my drink, I noticed a new stall selling tourist souvenirs, had been positioned near one of the mall exits.
On closer inspection, the stall had been placed in front of a Fire Point (see main article picture). The box containing the fire hose was no longer easily accessible. I guess its not an issue for 99% of the population, until there is a fire!
Just look at how crowded some malls are, not with shoppers, but small retail outlets crammed into every nook and cranny. Again Profit wins out over an enjoyable and safe shopping experience.
Passing by one mall, I saw men working overhead on the upper floor. Ropes were hanging down the side of the building and on to the side walk. There was nothing stopping the Public from walking underneath this potential safety hazard. Its Crazy!
Street lamps or electricity poles often have all sorts of rusty clamps and bolts sticking out of them. Normally at head height, these present a real safety issue. But again, the people fixing things to these posts don’t give a darn or don’t perceive any risk.
Many hardware stores will cover the side walk with their goods (see picture below). Its extremely common to have to step over rebar that is laid out on the sidewalk. Bags of cement will be passed from worker to worker, regardless of who is walking by.
There is an attitude among some store owners, “I can and will do what ever I like, wherever I like”. Did they ever stop to think that we the public have rights and we the public are ultimately the reason they are in business.
How many times have I had to walk out onto a busy road just to pass a line of hardware trucks, or inconsiderate motorists. Many to lazy to walk a few extra yards to reach the ATM.
Nobody seems to give a darn about the safety of the general public, including the public themselves. I am not sure if its due to ignorance, lack of common sense or knowledge of the laws. Probably all three.
The overstressed legal system means that anyone bringing a personal injury case will likely embark on a legal process of several years and tens of thousands of pesos. In such a poor country how can a normal person fight the offending parties.
Perhaps if our elected officials were to enforce current legislation, health and safety rules etc, we might see a change for the better.
While out shopping at the Mall, if you see a fire point blocked or anything that looks dangerous then report it to the Mall Management. If enough of us raise our voices then they will eventually listen.
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