In March, a fire broke out while charging an electric vehicle in Samgak-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan City, followed by another fire incident in the flower complex in Mareuk-dong, Seo-gu in May. Amid these incidents, a fire prevention ordinance has been proposed, drawing attention.
Jeon Seung-il, a member of the Gwangju Metropolitan City Seo-gu Council, announced on the 21st that the ordinances concerning fire prevention and safety facility support for electric vehicle-exclusive parking zones, and support for electrical fire safety facilities in buildings used by vulnerable groups, have passed the standing committee.
The ordinance on fire prevention and safety facility support for electric vehicle-exclusive parking zones, proposed during the ‘5-minute free speech’ on the 14th, includes ▲installation and support of fire prevention safety facilities for electric vehicle charging stations ▲promotion of response manuals in case of fire ▲recommendation for above-ground installation of electric vehicle charging facilities for rapid response in case of fire.
The ‘Ordinance on Support for Electrical Fire Safety Facilities in Buildings Used by Vulnerable Groups’ was enacted to protect the safety of district residents by installing fire extinguishing equipment in buildings and performance halls used by vulnerable groups such as the disabled and the elderly, to prevent fire accidents and enable prompt initial response.
Councilman Jeon stated, “According to data from the National Fire Information System, a total of 732 fire incidents occurred in Gwangju in 2023, with 159 cases in Seo-gu. The causes of ignition were ▲carelessness 56.6% (90 cases) ▲electrical factors 19.5% (31 cases),” adding, “Electrical fire accidents can be prevented in advance.”
He also said, “Rather than blindly cutting budgets or using funds after accidents occur, proactive and effective budget execution focusing on prevention is necessary,” and “Although the number of fire incidents in Gwangju decreased by 3% compared to the previous year (761 cases), the damage amount increased by 59% compared to the previous year, highlighting the need for fire prevention.”
Shin Dong-ho, Honam Reporting Headquarters, Asia Economy bless4ya@asiae.co.kr
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