Seoul City Warns of Fire Risks in April, When Most Fires Are Caused by Carelessness and Cigarette Butts

Statistical Analysis from 2017 to 2021... 2,419 Fires in April, Accounting for 8.6% of All Fires
Among 1,569 Negligence Fires, Cigarette Butt Fires Peak in April Throughout the Year

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Based on an analysis of safety accidents that occurred from 2017 to 2021, the Seoul Fire and Disaster Headquarters urged caution in fire prevention and safety management during April.

According to the Seoul Fire and Disaster Headquarters on the 7th, there were 2,419 fires in April during the statistical analysis period, accounting for 8.6% of all fires. The number of casualties was recorded as 89, including 14 deaths.

By cause of fire, fires caused by carelessness were the most frequent in April throughout the year, with 1,569 cases. In particular, fires caused by cigarette butts accounted for 753 cases, representing 48% of fires caused by carelessness. Additionally, fires caused by burning trash in open spaces such as vacant lots or storage yards also occurred most frequently in April, with 304 cases. Furthermore, gas stove fires in residential facilities were recorded at 123 cases, an increase of 30 cases (32.3%) compared to March.

Meanwhile, from 2017 to 2021, there were 59,947 emergency 119 dispatches related to safety accidents in April. April is a period when temperatures rise and the weather warms, leading to increased leisure activities and outdoor industrial activities. Mountain safety accidents (696 cases) and various fall accidents (350 cases) increased by 113 cases (19.4%) and 61 cases (21.1%), respectively, compared to March.

Jung Gyo-cheol, the on-site response team leader, said, “April, when the full spring atmosphere arrives, often sees minor carelessness leading to actual fires,” and added, “We ask for the interest and practice of all citizens regarding safety to prevent fires.”

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