Jeju Fire Headquarters Implements Fire Prevention Measures for Buddha's Birthday

Published 21 Apr.2022 12:45(KST)

[Jeju=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Hwang Jeongpil] The Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Fire Safety Headquarters (Head Park Geun-oh) announced on the 21st that it is focusing on fire prevention measures for traditional temples in preparation for Buddha's Birthday on the 8th of next month.

The Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters expects an increase in fire risk factors as the lantern parade, which was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has resumed following the recent lifting of social distancing, and many people are visiting temples for celebration events around Buddha's Birthday.

Over the past five years, there have been a total of 220 temple fires nationwide, resulting in 6 casualties (6 injuries) and property damage amounting to approximately 5.7 billion KRW.

In particular, the number of fires occurring in May, which includes Buddha's Birthday, was 21.7% higher compared to April, and nearly half of the fires (95 cases, 43.2%) were caused by negligence, highlighting the need for special attention to fire prevention.

In the Jeju area, there have been 3 temple fires in the past five years, causing property damage of about 38 million KRW, but no casualties.

Notably, no temple fires have occurred in the past two years.

By cause, 2 cases were due to careless handling of candles, and 1 case was due to electrical factors, indicating a high proportion of fires caused by negligence.

The Fire Safety Headquarters is focusing on fire prevention activities such as removing fire risk factors in advance and strengthening safety education for related personnel.

Until the 29th, special fire inspections will be conducted at temples across the province, and fire chiefs will directly provide fire safety consulting at major and traditional temples in each fire station jurisdiction.

Additionally, a 1:1 responsible fire officer will be assigned to each temple, operating a safety management system until the 6th of next month, and joint fire drills and safety education with the 119 center will be conducted regularly.

A Fire Safety Headquarters official said, “As the dry weather continues in spring, the risk of small fires such as cigarette butts and garbage burning expanding into large fires is increasing. We ask for active cooperation to prevent damage to traditional temples and cultural assets by paying special attention when using fire sources such as candles, electricity, and gas.”