A fire occurred at a rubber drying kiln in Kratie province’s Trapaing Sre village, in Snoul district, in December last year. Interior ministry
A total of 1,035 fires were recorded across the Kingdom in 2024, marking an increase of 269 cases, or 35 per cent over 2023.
These unfortunate incidents resulted in significant property damage, including the destruction of 615 houses, 658 market stalls, 24 warehouses, 11 factories and 46 vehicles, along with other assets, according to a March 14 report from the Ministry of Interior’s Department of Fire Prevention, Extinguishing and Rescue.
The report did not share details of public casualties.
In February however, Soth Kimkolmony, spokesperson for the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM), noted that in 2024, there were at least 20 deaths and 59 injuries caused by fire.
The fire prevention department noted that the causes of the fires included 445 cases (45.59%) caused by electrical short circuits and 317 cases (32.47%) due to improper use of electricity.
Neth Vantha, director of the department, shared that eight firefighters were injured while carrying out fire suppression and rescue operations in 2024 — three of them seriously.
“Whenever a fire breaks out, firefighters prioritise the mission of extinguishing the blaze and protecting human life above all else, even if it means putting themselves at risk to rescue people trapped in the flames,” he said.
He added that whenever an officer is injured — whether seriously or not — the leadership ensures comprehensive medical care, support and assistance for their families.
Firefighters who sacrifice their safety for the well-being of the public, as well as those with outstanding performance in firefighting and rescue missions, receive ongoing recognition and encouragement.
During operations, volunteer teams and professional firefighters nationwide face various challenges, including disorganised building structures, narrow roads, traffic congestion caused by drivers who do not give way to fire trucks, water shortages and long journeys from their stations, explained Vantha.
Additionally, public awareness of basic fire prevention measures remains limited.
Vantha urged the public to exercise greater caution and to prepare essential fire prevention equipment, such as fire extinguishers, water barrels, sand, fire-resistant blankets and wet towels.
Flammable or explosive materials such as fuel and gas, should be stored properly and kept away from heat sources.
Before leaving home, people should turn off electrical systems, stoves and gas appliances. They should also extinguish candles and incense to eliminate potential risks.
