Entering Dry Season, Bandung BPBD Urges Residents to Be Alert to Potential Fires in Settlements

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BANDUNG – The Bandung City Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has urged residents to be alert to the potential for fires and drought during the upcoming dry season, which is arriving earlier than anticipated. They stated that the risk of residential fires and drought remains a possibility.

The Head of Bandung City BPBD, Didi Ruswandi, said that Bandung City is relatively safe from forest and land fires. However, he noted that the potential for residential fires and drought must be anticipated.

“In Bandung City, there is relatively none (forest fires) because we do not have extensive forest areas,” he said on Tuesday (17/3/2026).

He explained that fires occurring in residential areas do not actually fall under the disaster category. However, the public is still asked to be vigilant against the potential for fires in their home environments, particularly due to negligence in using household appliances.

Didi continued that another potential issue to be wary of during the dry season is drought. This condition impacts the availability of clean water for the community if the dry season lasts long enough.

“The most important thing is for the community to conserve water usage. Do not use water excessively, especially if the dry season lasts quite long,” he said.

He highlighted the importance of public discipline in preventing house fires. Unsafe electrical installations and excessive use of electrical sockets are among the frequent triggers of fires.

In addition, cooking activities also require attention. Many fire cases occur due to negligence, for example, when someone leaves the kitchen while the stove is still on.