'Car Fire'... Apartment Management Office Employee's Response Minimizes Damage

Sejong Fire Headquarters,
A Citizen's Judgement Informed by Geumhwa Patrol Team Safety Training

Underground parking lot fire scene at an apartment complex in Jongchon-dong, Sejong City. /Photo by Fire Department Headquarters

Recently, in the underground parking lot of an apartment complex in Jongchon-dong, Sejong City, a car accident occurred when a driver in his 70s crashed into a wall due to drowsy driving. Attention is now focused on the fact that the fire did not spread further, thanks to the prompt initial response by a civilian.

Some interpret this outcome as a result of regular safety training provided by the fire department.

According to the Sejong Fire Headquarters on September 25, an employee of the apartment management office, who had received safety training from the Geumhwa Patrol Team operated by the headquarters, responded swiftly and accurately to the fire by using a fire extinguisher during the incident.

Park Iksoo, a 54-year-old employee of the apartment management office, immediately opened the engine compartment and used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire at an early stage after noticing smoke coming from the engine room right after the collision, thereby preventing a potential explosion.

The Sejong Southern Fire Station plans to award Park Iksoo with a civilian merit commendation for his contribution to the initial response to the fire.

Park Taewon, Chief of the Fire Headquarters, stated, "This case demonstrates that thorough education and training can minimize damage from fire accidents," adding, "We will continue to strengthen cooperation with apartment stakeholders to create a safe residential environment where citizens can feel secure."