Jongno-gu Provides Fire Extinguishers to Elderly Living Alone and Residents of Ssokbang

Jongno-gu to Conduct Safety Inspections and Maintenance for Vulnerable Households by November... Targeting Over 600 Local Households Including Basic Livelihood Security Recipients and Lower-Income Groups, Prioritizing Elderly and Disabled with Mobility Difficulties

In August 2019, district office officials distributing fire extinguishers in front of the Donu-dong jjokbang counseling center.

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Jongno-gu (District Mayor Kim Young-jong) will conduct a 'Safety Inspection and Maintenance Project' from March to November, targeting 'vulnerable households' to thoroughly inspect electrical and fire safety aspects and provide fire extinguishers and other equipment.

The target group includes about 600 households such as basic livelihood security recipients, lower-income classes, elderly living alone, and residents of jjokbang (small rooms), with final selection made after a home visit survey and eligibility review by a selection committee.

The selection criteria prioritize those living in difficult conditions and aging housing environments exposed to accident risks, especially elderly and disabled individuals with mobility difficulties.

This year, the district will invest 39.7 million KRW, a 19% increase from last year, to inspect electrical equipment (such as circuit breakers, outlets, switches), gas equipment (such as gas timers), and fire safety devices (such as fire alarms and extinguishers).

After inspection, old or faulty facilities will be repaired or replaced, with a particular focus on supporting fire prevention measures including circuit breakers, gas timers, fire detectors, and boiler repairs.

The inspections will be conducted through direct visits by the 'Safety Welfare Consulting Team,' composed of experts in each field, public officials, and volunteers. During visits, household members will also receive guidance and education on how to use safety equipment to enhance satisfaction.

In 2019, Jongno-gu visited 551 vulnerable households within the district, replacing lighting, outlets, and gas pipes, and providing fire detectors and extinguishers.

Additionally, from March 2 to March 31, the district will carry out the 'First Half-Year Children's Playground Safety Inspection' to ensure children can use playground facilities safely and comfortably.

The target includes 122 children's playground facilities installed in residential complexes, daycare centers, and urban parks within the district.

The district will conduct the inspection in three stages: ▲Stage 1 full inspection ▲Stage 2 sample inspection ▲Stage 3 joint public-private sample inspection, checking facility management status and whether management entities fulfill their obligations.

Key inspection items include 'structural deformation and damage' and compliance with safety management obligations such as 'regular facility inspections' and 'completion of safety management training.'

If any issues requiring action are found, immediate corrective measures will be taken. For parts needing long-term repair or reinforcement, usage will be prohibited or repair plans will be established and implemented.

District Mayor Kim Young-jong stated, “We will thoroughly inspect children's playground facilities in the district to create an environment where children can play safely. We will also carefully monitor residents in safety blind spots and provide continuous support to build an equitable community where all residents are equal in terms of safety.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.