In Myanmar, the majority of fires are caused by negligence, with other causes including cooking fires, spontaneous combustion, electrical fires, forest fires, and arson.
A fire caused by an individual’s negligence can not only result in death and injury to people but also destroy homes and property that have been built up through years of effort and savings. Along with such loss and destruction, the morale and hopes that people have built their lives upon are also diminished. Therefore, preventing fire hazards caused by individual negligence requires not only awareness and responsibility but also the collective strength and unity of the public.
During the summer, forest fires also occur frequently. When such fires destroy forests and hills, they can have a direct impact on the climate. Deforestation and forest fires damage the socio-economic lives of people living in the surrounding areas. In such degraded environments, it becomes difficult to carry out agriculture and livestock-based livelihoods. As the natural environment deteriorates, it often takes many years to return to its original condition.
Due to climatic conditions, fires can ignite easily. Without water, it is not possible to extinguish them. Therefore, water should be used efficiently. As a fire engine carrying 800 gallons of water can spray for only about three to five minutes, it is necessary to provide hydrants and fire-fighting water reservoirs in every ward and village.
In 2025, a total of 1,018 fire incidents occurred nationwide, with losses amounting to K9,255.7 million, according to an announcement by the relevant department. Therefore, efforts must be made each year to reduce the damage and losses caused by fires. In responding to major fires and natural disasters, personnel of the Myanmar Fire Brigade have worked tirelessly in firefighting, disregarding risks to their lives and physical safety.
In addition, fire brigades should be formed at the local and workplace levels to safeguard communities. The Department of Fire Services is also providing auxiliary firefighting training courses. As fire hazards cannot be fully prevented and managed by the department alone, young people should attend such training and work in cooperation with the department to help protect their communities.
In 2025, a total of 1,018 fire incidents occurred nationwide, with losses amounting to K9,255.7 million, according to an announcement by the relevant department. Therefore, efforts must be made each year to reduce the damage and losses caused by fires. In responding to major fires and natural disasters, personnel of the Myanmar Fire Brigade have worked tirelessly in firefighting, disregarding risks to their lives and physical safety.
5th May of this year marks the 80th Anniversary of Myanmar Fire Brigade Day. Firefighters are carrying out firefighting and search-and-rescue operations during natural disasters using modern vehicles and advanced technologies, enabling rapid detection, rapid response, and rapid suppression. The public is therefore urged to promptly report fire incidents and natural disasters by calling the Fire Services emergency number 191 and to cooperate in response efforts.
