To proactively prevent potential fire hazards, local authorities in Điện Biên Province are intensifying inspections, raising the public’s awareness of this issue, and encouraging individuals to stay vigilant.

The Điện Biên Province’s Police Department of Fire Prevention and Fighting & Search and Rescue, in association with police forces at grassroots level, has launched year-end and Tết-peak fire safety inspections at numerous business establishments and traditional markets across the province.

Inspection teams have conducted safety checks, provided guidance, and heightened awareness of all people within and around market areas on compliance with fire safety regulations. Merchants have been instructed to keep their kiosks well organized, avoid selling flammable liquids, and address any potential fire risks.

At the Noong Bua market in Điện Biên Phủ City, the inspection team reviewed the readiness of local fire prevention unit, checked the functionality of automatic fire alarm systems and water pump stations, and reminded vendors to commit to fire safety measures. Vendors were also introduced to how to use fire extinguishers, respond to fire incidents, and avoid storing goods in emergency exit areas.

Mr. Tiêu Anh Thư, a vendor at the Noong Bua market, shared that his family has started stocking more goods for the upcoming Tết, which increases fire risks. As a result, he has taken proactive measures, such as reinforcing electrical systems and adhering to fire safety commitments.

“Police officers not only showed us how to use fire extinguishers and handle initial fire incidents but also emphasized checking and reinforcing electrical systems in our kiosks. They even distributed fire safety manuals. This effort supports both vendors and the entire market in kiosks,” said Mr. Thư.

Typically, the period before, during, and after Tết sees an increase of production, trade, and service activities, along with higher storage and circulation of goods. Simultaneously, consumption of electricity, fuel, gas, and oil also surges, while cultural and festive activities occur amidst dry, cold weather, elevating fire risks. Data from authorities indicate that most fires during Tết are caused by electrical faults, and incense and votive paper burning.

Notably, Vietnamese cultural practices see crowds gathering at temples and pagodas during Tết. Large-scale incense and votive paper burning at these locations pose significant fire hazards.

To mitigate risks, Điện Biên District’s authorities have increased surveillance of local temples and places of worship. They worked closely with police force to inspect and guide fire safety measures at cultural and religious sites. Temple management boards have been advised to establish designated areas for votive paper burning, ensure proper ventilation, and assign staff to monitor incense and votive paper burning. Visitors are reminded to burn incense and votive paper only in designated areas.

According to local authorities, enhancing the public’s awareness is crucial for effective fire prevention during Tết. Strengthening fire response plans, conducting drills, and promoting community involvement in fire safety under the "four on-the-spots" principle (on-the-spot command, on-the-spot forces, on-the-spot equipment and supplies, on-the-spot logistics) are key to raising people’s vigilance and minimizing fire and explosion risks.

Lieutenant Colonel Lò Văn Muôn, Deputy Head of the Fire Prevention Task Force under the Điện Biên Province’s Police Department of Fire Prevention and Fighting & Search and Rescue, stated: “We prioritize raising the public’s awareness of fire prevention. Our team produces reports to be presented regularly on local radio stations in each village. We continuously remind residents to stay vigilant and pay due attention to fire safety.”

To proactively address fire risks, the Điện Biên Province’s Police Department of Fire Prevention and Fighting & Search and Rescue has teamed up with district-level police agencies to conduct over 30 fire drills in residential areas and 55 fire safety training sessions, reaching over 27,000 participants. More than 58,500 households have signed fire prevention commitments. Additionally, the department maintains and strengthens 160 inter-family fire prevention models involving 800 members. These community-based initiatives are helping enhance individual readiness and fire-handling skills, ensuring that all families enjoy a safe and happy Tết holiday.