Gwangju Seobu Fire Department, Campaign to Prevent Fires Caused by Careless Cigarette Butts

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Jin-hyung] The Gwangju Western Fire Station announced on the 26th that it conducted a campaign to prevent fires caused by careless cigarette butts.

According to fire statistics from the Gwangju Fire Headquarters, the number of fires caused by cigarette butts in Gwangju was 346 in 2020, 318 in 2021, and 320 from January to May 2022. Among the 320 cases, 174 (54.4%) were fires caused by human negligence.

This campaign aimed to prevent fires caused by cigarette butts and was held at two outdoor smoking areas in Hwajeong-dong, Seo-gu, Gwangju. Citizens were informed about the fire risks related to cigarette butts, instructed on the use of Cigar Wrap (a special packaging that can withstand cigarette embers and blocks odor when sealed), and promotional materials were distributed. Additionally, active participation in fire prevention was strongly encouraged.

Jo Yong-bok, Director of Prevention and Safety, stated, “Fires caused by cigarette butts occur regardless of time and place, and the damage is considerable. Since most cigarette butt fires result from minor negligence, we hope citizens will remain vigilant and contribute to fire prevention efforts.”