Caution Urged Over Vehicle Fires During Heat Wave... 3,451 Cases in July and August Over the Past 5 Years

[Financial News]  About one in five internal combustion engine vehicle fires over the past five years occurred in July and August, data showed. As long-distance driving and air conditioner use increase during the heat wave, the risk of engine overheating also rises, making vehicle inspections essential during the vacation season.
According to the National Fire Agency (NFA) on the 10th, a total of 18,417 internal combustion engine vehicle fires were reported from 2021 to 2025. Of those, 3,451 occurred over the two months of July and August, including 1,752 cases in July and 1,699 in August. That accounted for 18.7% of the total.
Annual vehicle fires rose from 3,493 cases in 2021 to 3,640 in 2022, 3,665 in 2023, and 3,813 in 2024. The figure dipped slightly to 3,806 last year, but that was still up 313 cases, or 9.0%, from 2021.
Vehicle fires caused 899 casualties over the past five years, including 130 deaths and 769 injuries. Property damage reached about 191.1 billion won.
By month, July recorded the highest average number of fires at 350 cases, followed by August with 340. Over the five-year period, they accounted for 9.5% and 9.2% of all vehicle fires, respectively.
The NFA explained that high outdoor temperatures in summer can raise engine temperatures, and prolonged use of air conditioning can add strain to vehicles, increasing the risk of overheating.
Before long-distance driving, drivers should check coolant and oil levels and make sure tire pressure is at the proper level. Because interior temperatures can rise rapidly in hot weather, it is also important not to leave fire-prone items such as lighters or power banks inside the car.
If driving for long periods, drivers should take regular breaks at rest areas or similar stops to check the vehicle's condition, and they should keep a vehicle fire extinguisher in the car.
Acting NFA Commissioner Choi Yong-cheol said, "Vehicle fires in summer are highly likely to lead to major casualties or secondary accidents because they coincide with the seasonal factor of extreme heat." He added, "During heat waves, please avoid excessive driving and be sure to keep a vehicle fire extinguisher on hand to take part in proactive fire prevention."


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