National Fire Agency Raises Fire Risk Alert to "Severe"... "Avoid Storing Batteries in Direct Sunlight or High Temperatures"

Fire Risk Alert Raised from "Caution" to "Severe" on August 5
Increase in Fire Incidents Amid Prolonged Heatwave
Warning over Electrical Equipment Overloads, Including Air Conditioners

The National Fire Agency announced on the afternoon of August 5 that at 3:00 p.m., the fire risk alert that had been issued nationwide would be raised from "Caution" to "Severe."

This measure was prompted by the prolonged heatwave, which has caused a surge in electricity demand due to increased use of cooling appliances. This, in turn, is raising concerns about electrical equipment overloads and overheating, as well as greater risks of fires involving aging wiring and air conditioner outdoor units.

As heatwave warnings continue across most regions nationwide, on the 29th, commuters in Seoul's Jung-gu district on Sejong-daero were seen walking with parasols or handheld fans on their way to work. The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts that heatwaves will persist during the day and tropical nights will continue at night for the time being. July 29, 2026 Photo by Dongju Yoon

Currently, heatwave advisories remain in effect for most areas across the country, with the highest-level heatwave emergency warning issued in parts of the greater Seoul area and Jeolla regions. The extreme heat is expected to persist nationwide for the foreseeable future, with maximum perceived temperatures around 35 degrees Celsius. In response, the National Fire Agency has been operating an emergency work system centered on the "Heatwave 119 Safety Countermeasures Headquarters" since August 2.

There has also been an increase in the number of fires during the period of expanded heatwave advisories. From July 1 to July 9, there was a daily average of 84.4 fire incidents; this figure rose by 19.4% to 100.8 cases per day from July 10 to July 27. In the period from July 27 to August 4, the rate further increased by 15.9% to a daily average of 116.9 incidents compared to the immediately preceding period.

The National Fire Agency has announced plans to strengthen fire response readiness at fire stations nationwide until further notice.

First, fire prevention guidelines for heatwave periods will be intensively promoted through disaster broadcasts and emergency alert text messages. Heads of fire stations will be on-site overseeing personnel and inspecting the readiness of available firefighting personnel and dispatch equipment.

If major fires or other emergencies occur, the agency will maintain a posture that enables immediate activation of the Emergency Rescue Control Group. Surveillance will also be increased for high-risk locations such as traditional markets, industrial facilities, and aging apartment complexes. Joint response systems will be checked as well, including sharing risk information and maintaining emergency contact networks with local governments and power-related agencies.

Song Ho Young, Director of the Fire Prevention Bureau at the National Fire Agency, said, "During periods of persistent heatwaves, there is a high risk of electrical equipment overloads from extended use of air conditioners and fans. Please strictly follow daily fire prevention practices, such as turning off the power to unused electrical devices and removing dust and flammable materials from around air conditioner outdoor units."

He continued, "Do not store batteries, backup batteries, or electric devices inside vehicles exposed to direct sunlight or in other high-temperature areas; if you notice any unusual odors, heat, or deformation while charging, stop using the device immediately."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.