[Opinion] Preventing Spring Wildfires Through Proactive Prevention and Early Response Systems

Park Seong-jun, Deputy Governor of Goseong-gun, Gyeongnam, published the following editorial on spring wildfire prevention through proactive prevention and establishment of early response systems.

Goseong-gun, Deputy Governor Park Seong-jun.

Although the mornings and evenings are chilly, the warm spring breeze can already be felt during the daytime. It is truly the beginning of spring. With the warmer weather, visitors naturally head to the mountains. While welcoming the spring flowers brings joy, the dry spring weather and increased outdoor activities significantly raise the risk of wildfires.

In response to the increased risk of wildfires during this period, Goseong-gun is focusing all efforts on thorough preventive activities and establishing early response systems tailored to local conditions to prevent wildfires.

Goseong-gun is implementing a comprehensive and systematic 'Wildfire Prevention Plan,' conducting regular 'initial firefighting drills' that simulate real situations for rapid initial response, operating a 'farm residue collection and shredding team' to prevent burning-related wildfires, running a 'specialized wildfire firefighting team' during vulnerable times after sunset and at night, and promptly replacing firefighting equipment that has deteriorated due to expiration to minimize wildfire damage and protect the lives and property of residents.

Since 65.9% of Goseong’s total area is forest, there is a large forest area that must be protected. Therefore, despite Goseong-gun’s various efforts, without residents’ vigilance and active participation in wildfire prevention, it is impossible to prevent wildfires or protect forest resources. Over the past five years, Goseong-gun has experienced eight wildfires. By cause, there were four building fires, two other burnings, one electrical spark, and one natural ignition. This confirms that the main cause of wildfires is human negligence rather than natural ignition, requiring the attention and caution of all residents.

In this regard, to protect our treasured forests that we enjoy and will pass on to future generations from fire, it is essential to remember and practice at least the following two points.

First, do not carry flammable materials when entering the mountains. When going to the mountains, you must not carry fire sources or flammable materials such as lighters or burners. Check your pockets and hiking backpacks both at home and at the mountain entrance, and if you have any flammable materials, leave them behind.

Second, prohibit illegal burning near forest-adjacent areas. Burning near the mountains with the thought of making farming easier can cause wildfires, and those responsible may remain criminals for life. Anyone who causes a wildfire, whether intentionally or by accident, faces up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won and is also responsible for restoration.

In these dry weather conditions and unexpected strong winds, even a small spark can quickly escalate into a large wildfire. Therefore, individuals must be more vigilant about wildfires than usual.

Finally, if you discover a wildfire, please report it immediately to the fire department, Goseong-gun, or the nearest town or township office. We earnestly ask for the interest and cooperation of all residents in efforts to protect our precious forest assets.