With the forest fire caution period for the autumn forest fire season lasting across South Korea from November 1st to December 15th, forest fire prevention education is especially required.

According to the National Fire Agency, over three-quarters of the number of forest fires that occurred last year (782 cases) were caused by negligence (608 cases, 78%). Among these, 254 cases (42%) were cigarette butts, 119 cases (20%) were litter incineration, and 106 cases (17%) were fire embers.

Accordingly, the Donghae Branch of Shincheonji Volunteer Group (Director Chan-yong Park) conducted the 'Green Nature Forest Fire Prevention Campaign' and the 'Litter-picking Challenge' with citizens at the entrance to Mureung Valley hiking trail in Donghae City on the 25th November during the forest fire caution period in anticipation of potential fires.

In particular, Donghae City suffered significant damage to forests and property due to a large-scale forest fire last spring.

In order to prevent the pain and damage inflicted by forest fires, Shincheonji Volunteer Group's Donghae Branch communicated with citizens by holding a forest fire photo exhibition, distributing forest fire prevention leaflets, hanging forest fire prevention ribbons, and distributing forest fire prevention promotional items.

In addition, various experiences were provided, such as forest fire prevention busking and an experience booth, including explanations on the ban on burning agricultural waste in forest-adjacent areas and intensive crackdown on illegal cooking.

A hiker from Gwangyang, South Jeolla province said, “After hiking, I was drawn to the sound of voices singing forest fire prevention songs, so I sang along and had a good experience answering quizzes with gifts incentives. I hope an event like this can be held in my neighbourhood.”

This forest fire campaign was successfully completed by providing sufficient supplies to help Donghae City promote forest fire prevention for the safety and wellbeing of its citizens.