953 fires reported across Myanmar in 2024, resulting in 76 deaths

From January to September 2024, a total of 953 fire incidents occurred across Myanmar, resulting in 76 deaths, according to a report released by the Myanmar Fire Services Department.

The breakdown of fire types included 147 kitchen fires, 268 accidental fires, 17 spontaneous combustion fires, 352 electrical fires, 61 cases of arson, 62 forest fires, 43 vandalism-related fires, one lightning strike incident, and two cases still under investigation.

The report further revealed that 3,651 buildings, including nine factories/workshops, and 44 warehouses, were damaged in these fires. As a result, 8,554 people were displaced, 76 individuals lost their lives, 90 were injured, and 589 animals perished. The total economic loss was estimated at approximately 7839.394 million kyats.

The most common causes of fire were kitchen fires, electrical fires, and accidental fires. To prevent kitchen fires, the Fire Services Department recommended keeping a watchful eye on cooking, avoiding the storage of flammable substances near cooking areas, and ensuring that children or the elderly are not tasked with operating stoves or boiling water. It also advised installing sufficient heat-resistant barriers between stoves and walls or ceilings to minimize the risk of fire.

To prevent fire incidents, the department also suggested households take preventive measures, such as replacing old and worn-out electrical wiring, using properly rated fuses, switching off and unplugging electrical appliances like stoves and irons after use, and disconnecting the main power switch if a short circuit occurs. If a fire starts due to electrical issues, extinguish it with dry cloths or fabric and avoid using defective electrical equipment.

The department emphasized that following these guidelines, as well as complying with the department’s fire safety recommendations, could significantly reduce fire incidents, particularly those caused by negligence or accidents.