The Prime Minister on Feb. 27 asked all relevant Government agencies to start a nationwide inspection of fire prevention work in high-rise buildings, commercial centres, schools, kindergartens and other high-risk locations.

The nationwide inspection will last until March 20 and all results are expected to be reported to the Prime Minister before March 30.

Dung's instruction came after several major fires broke out in recent months, including four major fires on February 8 and 9. The Quang Ngai Central Market fire in particular caused about 9.6 million USD in damages.

The PM also asked the Ministry of Information and Communications to increase its awareness raising activities on fire prevention and to provide information on rescue methods and other safety standards.

The Ministry of Public Security was also instructed to inspect and punish all individuals or organisations that are found to be irresponsible in following fire prevention safety standards./.