This leads to massive stockpiles of goods and the frequent use of electricity, fire, and heat sources, creating a significant risk of fire and explosion if not strictly managed.

At the Central Market 1 in Điện Biên Phủ ward, where 80 kiosks are currently operating, the volume of flammable items like clothing, footwear, bedding, and decorations has surged compared to normal days. It is the kind of situation where one stray spark could turn a holiday shopping spree into a very different kind of headline.

To preemptively handle these risks, the fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue police department of the provincial police has conducted on-site inspections of every stall and common area within the market. Officers focused on reviewing electrical systems and the management of heat sources while guiding traders to arrange their goods neatly to maintain safe distances. Alongside checking local firefighting equipment and escape routes, authorities directly engaged with traders to remind them that a moment of negligence during the peak shopping season could have serious consequences.

“We determine that no negligence or complacency is allowed, because even a small mistake can cause serious consequences, especially during the Tết holiday,” said Hoàng Thị Lan, Head of the Central Market 1 Management Board.

Hoàng Thị Lan noted that the management board regularly inspects kiosks to ensure electrical safety and clear exit paths, particularly in areas with high concentrations of flammable materials. The market has established three fire response points, each comprised of five to seven business owners who act as an on-site force ready to react instantly to any incident.

With the aim of protecting the public during the high-pressure period of the up-coming Tết holiday, the fire police have collaborated with the department of construction to inspect 45 facilities since the start of January 2026. The focus is on high-risk locations such as markets, shopping centers, and warehouses. This follows a previous campaign in October and November 2025, during which the police and relevant departments inspected 132 facilities for dry season safety. That effort resulted in administrative fines for 12 facilities totaling VND 77 million. Common violations included failing to maintain lightning protection systems, possessing substandard firefighting tools, and equipping improper demolition gear.

According to Phạm Thanh Phong, Head of the Fire Prevention Team, these inspections and propaganda efforts are being deployed across various facility types just as goods begin to accumulate. He explained that the goal is to identify and eliminate hazards early by scrutinizing electrical systems, firefighting equipment, and the responsibility of facility leaders. To ensure a peaceful holiday for the people, the fire police maintain a 24-hour standby status and have tailored rescue plans for specific areas. The grassroots-level fire prevention network is further supported by hundreds of civil defense teams and public firefighting points.

Beyond the efforts of the authorities, every citizen and family must raise their own awareness and treat fire safety as a daily habit. Proactive prevention is the most important factor in ensuring that everyone can enjoy a complete and safe holiday.