Ahead of Chuseok, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Songha Branch held a fire prevention campaign on 20th September in the Pureungil Park area of Jinwol-dong, Gwangju, highlighting fire safety during the holiday period.

According to the National Fire Agency, 1170 fires occurred nationwide during the Chuseok holiday period from 2019 to 2023. Of these, 425 were residential fires, with 240 cases (56.4%) attributed to negligence, including cooking and discarded cigarette butts.

The campaign provided citizens with hands-on training in using fire extinguishers and responding to fires in their early stages. Participants also tested their knowledge through an OX quiz at the Fire Prevention Mobile Game Zone.

The Songha Branch introduced the 119 Fire Evacuation Safety Call system for people who may require assistance during evacuation, including older people and those with mobility difficulties. Safety leaflets and fire-extinguisher-shaped keyrings were also distributed.

A parent who participated in the quiz with their child said, “I was surprised to learn that one small powder fire extinguisher can do the work of more than one fire engine in the early stages of a fire.” The participant added, “I plan to check the locations of the fire extinguishers in my home and vehicle once again.”

Citizens were also reminded to practise basic precautions, including not leaving cooking unattended, disposing of cigarette butts safely, checking heating appliances and ensuring fire extinguishers are accessible and in good condition. Those visiting ancestral graves or going hiking were advised to take additional precautions against wildfires.

A Songha Branch official said, “We hope that the upcoming Chuseok holiday will serve as an opportunity for citizens to reflect once again on the importance of fire prevention and practise safety rules in their daily lives.” The official added, “We will continue our activities to spread a culture of safety in everyday life.”

Source: vo.la/wPvI19B