Gwangju Seobu Fire Station Urges Caution for Summer Cooling and Heating Equipment Safety Accidents

Summer Cooling and Heating Equipment Safety Accident Warning Poster. Photo by Gwangju Seobu Fire Station.

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Junho] Gwangju Seobu Fire Station (Chief Moon Hee-jun) urged on the 17th to comply with safety rules when using cooling and heating devices.

As summer approaches, the usage of cooling and heating devices is expected to increase along with a rise in fire incidents.

According to statistics from the Fire Agency, fires caused by cooling and heating devices (such as air conditioners) in 2021 were concentrated in July and August (62.6%), with half (49.4%) occurring in residential facilities.

To prevent safety accidents related to cooling and heating devices this summer, air conditioners should be thoroughly cleaned of dust before use and inspected for corrosion or damage on the exterior.

Also, since flammable materials around the outdoor unit can cause rapid fire spread, it is essential to check for the absence of such materials. Use a dedicated single wire for the air conditioner, and if any issues arise with the outdoor unit, immediately have it inspected by a professional service.

A fire official stated, “As the peak air conditioner usage season begins, we hope everyone takes thorough preventive measures before using cooling and heating devices and regularly maintains outdoor units to ensure a safe summer.”