Gwangjin-gu steps up wildfire prevention for autumn fire season

Seoul's Gwangjin-gu has activated a wildfire prevention headquarters for the autumn fire season, mobilizing resources for early detection and rapid response.

The district designated Nov. 1 through Dec. 15 as the autumn wildfire caution period and drew up a comprehensive prevention plan. Dry weather and a seasonal rise in hiking activity heighten wildfire risk during this period, prompting the district to intensify monitoring and prevention efforts in vulnerable areas.

Ahead of the caution period, the district carried out a full inspection of prevention facilities and firefighting equipment. At the main trailheads on Achasan, worn flammable-material storage boxes were replaced and additional units installed where needed, bringing the total number of serviced locations to 15. The boxes are intended to encourage hikers to store flammable items safely and reduce the risk of fires.

Firefighting equipment also received attention. Key components of wildfire surveillance recording devices were replaced, and the condition and inventory of equipment stored in high-pressure hose cabinets were verified. Worn hoses were swapped out for new ones to ensure crews can respond swiftly if a fire occurs.

The district is also expanding technology-assisted surveillance. One drone, six unmanned wildfire surveillance cameras and 11 wildfire monitoring recording devices will be deployed to keep a close watch on high-risk zones. Voice announcements will remind hikers of fire prevention guidelines, and potential hazards will be identified in advance as part of ongoing prevention efforts.

The wildfire prevention headquarters began operations Sunday. With the head of the parks and leisure division serving as overall coordinator, the district has established a response framework that includes patrols and equipment checks in vulnerable areas on weekends and public holidays. Should a fire break out, personnel will deploy to the scene immediately and notify relevant agencies to ensure a swift, coordinated initial response.

"Autumn brings dry conditions and more hikers, so extra caution is essential for wildfire prevention," Gwangjin-gu District Mayor Kim Kyung-ho said. "Even a small moment of carelessness can lead to devastating damage, so I urge all hikers and residents to strictly follow wildfire prevention guidelines."