[Column] "Protecting Multi-Family Housing Safety Through Everyday Actions"

Multi-family housing is a space where many households live together, and in the event of a fire, smoke and flames can spread rapidly, leading to large-scale damage in a short period of time.

In particular, the main cause of casualties in apartment fires is smoke inhalation rather than flames, and if escape routes are blocked or fire doors are left open, the damage becomes even greater. Therefore, residents' own safety awareness and practical actions in daily life are more important than anything else.

First, fire doors must always be kept closed. Fire doors serve as a barrier to prevent the spread of smoke and flames, and the simple habit of keeping them closed protects the safety of your neighbors.

Second, do not leave any objects in stairwells or hallways that could obstruct evacuation. If escape routes are not secured during a fire, quick evacuation becomes difficult.

Third, if a fire breaks out, remain calm, assess your surroundings, evacuate, and immediately report the fire to 119. Swift initial response is key to significantly reducing damage.

Fourth, never use elevators during a fire; always evacuate via the stairs. Elevators can become dangerous due to power outages or smoke infiltration.

Fifth, always charge electric device batteries in a safe location. As cases of battery fires involving electric scooters and electric bicycles have been increasing recently, extra caution is required.

Fires in multi-family housing often start from minor carelessness, but the damage can quickly spread to all neighbors. Safety is not just an individual responsibility, but a task for all of us. I would like to emphasize once again that small actions in daily life are the surest way to protect your family and neighbors.

Chief Choi Wonik of Chilgok Fire Station / Photo by Kim Ihwan

Choi Wonik, Chief of Chilgok Fire Station

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