Namwon Fire Station Intensifies Campaign to Prevent Winter Heating Appliance Fires

Surge in Use of Electric Heaters and Mats

Jeonbuk Namwon Fire Station is extinguishing a house fire that occurred in August last year. Photo by Jeonbuk Namwon Fire Station

Jeonbuk Namwon Fire Station has called for heightened caution to prevent fires caused by electrical factors, as the use of heating appliances and electrical products surges during the winter season.

According to Namwon Fire Station on January 5, an analysis of National Fire Agency statistics revealed that, over the past five years (2020-2024), there were 2,743 winter fires in Jeonbuk Province, of which 555 were attributed to electrical causes.

This figure accounts for 20.2% of all cases, making electrical factors the second most common cause of fires after 'carelessness.'

In particular, during winter when the use of electric heaters and electric mats is concentrated, even minor mishandling can easily lead to large-scale fires. In response, Namwon Fire Station is stepping up comprehensive preventive activities, including promoting safe usage guidelines and conducting public awareness campaigns for citizens.

Key safety guidelines include: ▲ Checking for damaged wires and the condition of plugs on electrical products ▲ Ensuring electric mats are not pressed by heavy objects or folded ▲ Turning off the power before leaving home or going to bed.

Nam Cheolhee, Chief of Namwon Fire Station, stated, "Electrical products bring convenience to our daily lives, but even a moment of carelessness can result in an irreversible fire. I urge all citizens to strictly follow safety guidelines for electric heating products to ensure a safe and warm winter."