The high number of fires during recent holidays have prompted authorities to focus on preventive measures over the Lunar New Year festival (Tet).

Statistics from the Ministry of Public Security showed that over the three-day solar New Year holiday, more than 145 fires occurred, causing six deaths, five injuries and losses of 31 billion VND (1.47 million USD).

Most occurred in private houses, and a handful spread through local markets.

Director of HCM City ’s Fire Fighting Police Department Major General Tran Trieu Duong said that factories are operating at maximum capacity which means a higher risk of fires.

Lieutenant Colonel Dang Van Minh from Nha Trang City ’s Fire Fighting Police Department shared Duong’s opinion, and said that shoddy electrics are a danger in many storage facilities.

Workers also continue to cook food and burn offerings in close proximity to flammable goods.

Households are at an increased risk of fires from flammable decorations and increased cooking activities during Tet, he said.

The Ministry of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs has asked localities to mobilise more forces to take preventive measures against fires in factories, key projects and residential areas.

Action plans should be formed to minimise losses when fires occur, and forces should be on duty around the clock.

Knowledge about fire risks, prevention methods and emergency services needs to be spread so relevant agencies could be informed and take action where necessary.

The public have also been told to check gas and electrical equipment.-VNA