Imsil-gun, All-Out Effort for Citizen Safety Management in Preparation for Heatwave

Imsil-gun, Jeonbuk is making every effort to ensure the safety of its residents in preparation for the heatwave following the end of the monsoon season.

On the 31st, the county announced that it has taken swift action, including the rapid activation of a heatwave safety management system to minimize damage to residents caused by the heatwave.

Imsil County is operating water spraying trucks to prepare for the heatwave.
[Photo by Imsil County]

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, this summer is expected to see an increase in average temperatures and the number of heatwave days compared to normal years, raising concerns about potential damage.

Since most heat-related illness patients are elderly residents living in rural farming and fishing communities, the county plans to actively utilize disaster helpers such as social workers and village leaders to regularly check on residents via phone calls or visits.

Additionally, in collaboration with the private organization, the Autonomous Disaster Prevention Group, the county continuously inspects cooling shelters and actively conducts promotional activities to prevent heatwave damage, making every effort to prepare in advance through cooperation with private groups.

Cooling shelters are available for use until 6 p.m., and extended shelters (such as senior centers and village halls) operate until 9 p.m.

Operating hours vary on holidays depending on the facility, so detailed information should be obtained by contacting the respective facility.

In particular, 12 shade tents have been installed and are operating at major crosswalks and roadsides with heavy pedestrian traffic to provide shade from the sun. Additionally, four smart shade tents that automatically open and close based on temperature and time are being installed.

The operation of water spraying trucks, which effectively reduce road heat radiation and fine dust, will resume next month on major roads in towns and townships depending on the situation during the peak heatwave period.

Furthermore, to shift the perception that heatwaves are disasters, various promotional media are being used to actively inform residents about campaigns and activities, and guidelines for action during heatwave warnings are provided through electronic display boards.

The county plans to continue resident-focused prevention promotion activities using various media such as banners, the official website, and village broadcasts.

During heatwave warnings, residents are advised to refrain from outdoor activities, drink water frequently, rest in the shade, and follow heatwave safety guidelines. If a heat-related illness occurs, the patient should be immediately moved to a cool place and 119 emergency services should be contacted promptly.

County Governor Shim Min said, “Residents should be considerate and help vulnerable elderly and those with mobility difficulties to use nearby cooling shelters,” adding, “We will do our utmost to provide administrative support and attention to prevent safety accidents caused by the heatwave.”

Imsil = Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Park Nosik baekok@asiae.co.kr

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