Dongjak-gu Supports the Nation's Largest Scale of 'Thermal Imaging Cameras' to Prevent Electric Vehicle Fires

MOU for Establishing SafetyWorld and Thermal Imaging Camera Monitoring System

Dongjak-gu, Seoul (Mayor Park Ilha) announced on the 22nd that it will support the installation of thermal imaging cameras in apartment complexes within the district, the largest scale nationwide, to alleviate residents' anxiety following recent consecutive electric vehicle fire incidents.

On the 21st, the district signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Safety World Co., Ltd. at Dongjak-gu Office to establish a thermal imaging camera monitoring system for the prevention of electric vehicle fires in apartment complexes.

Park Il-ha, Mayor of Dongjak-gu (right in the photo), and Lee Ki-ho, CEO of Safety World Co., Ltd. (left), signed a business agreement on the 21st to provide emergency support for thermal imaging cameras in apartment complexes and are taking a commemorative photo. Provided by Dongjak-gu.

The thermal imaging cameras detect rapid temperature rises, one of the main causes of electric vehicle fires, from the early stages, and help minimize damage by monitoring and warning of fire signs 24 hours a day.

The district plans to prioritize support for electric vehicle charging facilities in underground parking lots, where large-scale damage is expected in case of electric vehicle fires, and gradually expand the program. Earlier this month, after recruiting installation sites in apartment complexes within the district, 67 out of 84 eligible complexes applied, recording a high application rate of about 80%. After on-site inspections, installation is scheduled to be completed by next month.

Ahead of the winter season, when fires are frequent, the district plans to quickly install about 130 units, up to two per applying complex, which is the largest scale among local governments nationwide. The district also stated that it has actively responded since early last year, before the electric vehicle fire issue became prominent, with the mayor personally conducting on-site inspections such as sprinkler operations and devising resident support measures.

In August, two meetings were held with apartment complex managers to hear field voices, and in October, a comprehensive electric vehicle fire safety plan briefing was held to accelerate support for electric vehicle fire response facilities within apartment complexes.

Mayor Park Ilha said, “Through this urgent support of thermal imaging cameras, we will alleviate the anxiety of apartment residents and prevent electric vehicle fire damage,” adding, “We will continue to implement various policies to create a pleasant and safe residential environment.”