[Opinion] Protecting Our Home with Residential Fire Safety Equipment During Winter Fire Prevention

At the beginning of winter, fire stations nationwide designate the month as the "Fire Prevention Emphasis Month" as part of winter fire safety measures, focusing on nationwide fire prevention activities.

Masansobangseo Fire Lieutenant Lee Munyeong.

During winter, the cold and dry weather increases the use of heating appliances, leading to a rise in fires and unfortunately causing casualties.

In response, fire stations vigorously promote fire safety policies, fire prevention education, and fire prevention campaigns throughout November to fully address the risks of winter fires.

However, it is difficult to prevent fires and other safety accidents by the efforts of fire stations alone, so this article aims to inform citizens about what they can do to encourage individual attention to safety and share several methods for preventing winter fires.

First, avoid using octopus-style power strips. Homes have many electrical appliances and often use multi-tap power strips. To prevent fires related to power strips, keep the area around outlets clean, do not twist or tie wires, and avoid using multiple devices simultaneously.

Second, as the use of heating appliances increases, check for certification marks (KC·KS certification) when purchasing electrical and heating products. When using stored products, inspect them for damage, and when using electric heaters for extended periods, be careful not to leave them unattended to prevent overheating.

Also, check heating appliances that have not been used for a long time for malfunctions and remove accumulated dust.

Third, maintain and manage installed fire safety equipment. Residential fires account for a large portion of winter fires. Check what fire safety equipment is nearby, and to respond initially before firefighters arrive in case of fire, be sure to install residential fire safety equipment (fire extinguishers, standalone smoke detectors), learn how to use them, and regularly check that they are functioning properly.

Most fires occur due to a momentary mistake or negligence. If citizens themselves make efforts to protect their precious homes from fire, this winter can be spent safely and warmly.

Masan Fire Station, Fire Lieutenant Lee Mu-nyeong