Uiryeong-gun Wildfire Suppression Team Rescues Elderly Couple in Their 70s from House Fire

County Governor Oh Tae-wan Awards Commendation
to Kim Jin-cheol for Saving Neighbor's Lives

Uiryeong-gun, Gyeongnam Province, announced on the 25th that it awarded a commendation to Kim Jin-cheol (59), a wildfire prevention and suppression specialist, who saw a fire at a house on his way home, ran into the house, woke up the residents, and rescued them.

Kim, who works as a wildfire prevention and suppression specialist at the Uiryeong-gun Forest Recreation Division, saw a fire at a detached house while returning home after exercising at 11 a.m. on January 15. He entered the house, woke up a couple in their 70s who were sleeping, and safely evacuated them.

Award presented to wildfire prevention specialists for outstanding contributions to wildfire prevention. Provided by Uiryeong-gun.

Kim demonstrated quick thinking by contacting not only 119 emergency services but also the wildfire suppression team he belonged to, dispatching a wildfire suppression vehicle to prevent the fire from spreading. He is recognized for his diligence as a wildfire prevention and suppression specialist with 13 years of experience.

On the 20th, County Governor Oh Tae-wan said, "In a situation where precious lives could have been lost, the swift and proactive response of the wildfire prevention and suppression specialist saved valuable lives. As a member of the county, I sincerely thank him."

Kim said, "Having worked as a wildfire prevention and suppression specialist for many years, it has become a habit to automatically respond and react when I see danger signals. I felt most rewarded to be able to save lives."

Meanwhile, the rescued couple is reported to be in no life-threatening condition and is currently living in the village hall, thanks to the consideration of the residents of Seongnam Village, until their house repairs are completed.

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