Jeonnam Fire Department: "Check Seasonal Electric Appliances Before Use"

109 Electrical Appliance Fires Occurred in Jeonnam Region During Summer Over the Past 5 Years

Safety Compliance Urged Including Air Conditioner Dust Removal and Prohibition of Outdoor Unit Clutter

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] The Jeonnam Fire Headquarters (Chief Ma Jaeyoon) has urged a preliminary inspection of seasonal electrical appliances as the summer season begins in earnest.

According to the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters on the 13th, over the past five years (2016?2020), there have been 109 electrical appliance fires during the summer months (June to August), resulting in property damage worth 1.68 billion KRW.

Last summer, there were a total of 20 appliance fires, accounting for 18.3% of the fires over the past five years. Three people died, 29 were injured, and property damage amounted to 590 million KRW, showing an increasing trend in the scale of damage each year.

Examining the causes of fires, electrical factors such as short circuits due to insulation deterioration accounted for the largest share at 47.7% (52 cases), followed by mechanical factors such as overheating and overload at 39.4% (43 cases), and carelessness at 10.1% (11 cases).

By location, residential facilities accounted for 47 cases (43.1%), industrial facilities such as factories 21 cases (19.3%), and other buildings and restaurants each had 14 cases (12.8%).

By product, fans accounted for 41 cases (37.6%), air conditioners 24 cases (22%), and dehumidifiers and air conditioning equipment 13 cases (11.9%), in that order.

A representative from the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters said, “Before operating an air conditioner, it is advisable to remove dust from the outdoor unit and check for any damaged wires,” adding, “The power supply should use a dedicated single outlet exclusively for the air conditioner.”

He continued, “The outdoor unit should be installed in a well-ventilated, non-enclosed area, and it is important to avoid stacking flammable clothes or paper around the outdoor unit.”

Chief Ma Jaeyoon stated, “With summer approaching rapidly, the use of air conditioners and fans is expected to surge,” and urged, “Please conduct safety inspections before using seasonal appliances and adhere to safety rules during use.”