We are dedicated to promoting financial inclusion, ensuring that ordinary Filipinos can access affordable protection and security as part of their financial plans. It’s essential for them to have access to basic security measures that can help mitigate the impact of potential disasters.
In the first two months of 2022, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported that fire incidents increased by nearly 13% compared to the same period in the previous year. Furthermore, data from 2020 indicated that the main causes of fire accidents were open flames from torches, unattended cooking, and faulty electrical connections.
Like other threats and risks associated with unfortunate events, such as natural disasters and fire-related negligence, thousands of lives and properties worth millions—if not billions—are lost each year. This highlights the urgent need for financial tools to mitigate the financial impacts of such incidents.
Fire Safety Tips
As the country observes the annual Fire Prevention Month, here are some tips from the BFP to make sure that your house is safe from fire:

Unplug appliances when they are not in use.
Always remember to unplug your appliances before leaving the house.

Never leave flames or heated appliances unattended.
Always be cautious with any open flames, such as candles or while cooking. Keep a watchful eye and be prepared to react if something goes wrong. It’s a good idea to install smoke alarms and have fire extinguishers readily available nearby.
Keep flammable items away from things that can be a source of fire.
Proper storage of various items and supplies can help prevent fire incidents. Ensuring that flammable items are stored correctly and kept away from heat sources can save you from potential accidents.

Declutter.
Having too many items stacked in an area can allow a fire to spread more quickly. By decluttering certain spaces in your home, you can reduce the risk of fire spreading, minimize potential losses, and help protect your home in the event of a fire.

Regularly inspect your electrical wiring.
Be vigilant about any visible faulty wiring. This can damage your appliances and potentially lead to a fire.
Always remember that prevention is better than cure. Knowing these fire prevention tips can save you and others from a devastating event.
This Fire Prevention Month, it’s essential to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention. In addition to being prepared for fire incidents, it’s crucial that everyday Filipinos have a safety net in place. This is the primary mission of our microinsurance product, ProtectMax. This product offers comprehensive coverage at a more affordable price.
To reduce the risk of fire and other natural disasters, Cebuana Lhuillier offers ProtectMAX, an affordable microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years.
This policy includes benefits such as a Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment or Disablement coverage, protection against Murder and Unprovoked Assault, and cash assistance for Residential Fire Reconstruction.

For as low as P50, you can obtain coverage valued at up to P61,000. Each certificate is valid for four months from the date of issuance, and an individual can purchase a maximum of five certificates per year.
To learn more about Cebuana Lhuillier ProtectMAX, visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch or log on to www.cebuanalhuillier.com. Avail of ProtectMAX now at nearly 3,000 Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide.