Jeonbuk heating appliance fires caused by negligence

The Jeonbuk State Fire Headquarters reported that 221 fires related to heating appliances occurred in the Jeonbuk region between 2023 and 2025, resulting in 12 injuries. Data shows a significant increase in incidents starting in October as temperatures drop, with November seeing a peak of 24 cases.

User negligence was identified as the primary cause, accounting for 55.7% of the total fires (123 cases). Within this category, improper use or installation of devices was the most frequent issue. Other causes included electrical factors (23%) and mechanical factors (14.5%).

Wood boilers were the most common source of these fires, accounting for 33.5% of incidents (74 cases), followed by heating wires, household boilers, electric mats, and electric heaters. Authorities advise residents to keep flammable materials away from heating devices, regularly clean wood boiler chimneys, and inspect electrical cords before use.