Gwangju Seobu Fire Department Strengthens Fire Prevention for Pilotis Structure Buildings

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Jin-hyung] The Gwangju Western Fire Station announced on the 2nd that it will strengthen fire prevention measures for pilotis-structured buildings, which are highly vulnerable to fires.

Pilotis is a structure that supports the building's load with columns and load-bearing walls on the ground floor, leaving the exterior walls open. It is preferred due to its simple construction and efficient use of space.

However, open structures like pilotis are greatly affected by wind, allowing fires to spread quickly. Most pilotis are used as parking lots and recycling collection sites, increasing the risk of fire occurrence.

Accordingly, the Western Fire Station is implementing fire prevention measures targeting 76 large fire-vulnerable pilotis-structured buildings. The main initiatives include ▲checking the maintenance status of fire-fighting facilities ▲removing stored items near emergency exits and fire-fighting facilities ▲educating related personnel on evacuation procedures and initial fire suppression methods.

A fire official stated, “Not only building managers but also residents and users should familiarize themselves with evacuation methods and actions to take during a fire to prepare for unexpected fire incidents.”