Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

In daily life, electrical appliances are used frequently, and even a small oversight can lead to an electrical fire. According to statistics from Taipei City Fire Department, a total of 1,137 fire incidents occurred from January to December last year (2024), with 417 of them (36.7%) were caused by electrical factors—making electrical fires the leading cause of all the reported fires. In a residential fire that occurred in Wenshan District, Taipei City this April, multiple extension cords were improperly connected in the bedroom, causing a short circuit that ignited nearby furniture and flammable materials. Although the fire was contained within the bedroom, the resident was injured while attempting to extinguish the flames. This incident highlights the risks of misusing extension cords and storing flammable materials nearby.The Fire Department urges the public to follow the "Five No’s and One Must" principle for electrical safety to ensure the safety of homes and workplaces, and to regularly check the electrical safety of appliances used in bedrooms and living rooms to reduce the risk of fire: 

1. No Overloading: Avoid plugging multiple high-power appliances into a single extension cord to prevent overloading and fire hazards.

2. No Bundled Cords: Tangled or bundled wires can overheat and cause short circuits. Keep cords untangled and properly arranged.

3. No Flammable Materials Nearby: Keep space heaters, extension cords, and other electrical devices away from curtains, paper, and other flammable objects to reduce fire risks.

4. No Dirty or Damaged Plugs: Regularly inspect plugs and outlets. If you notice dust buildup, scorch marks, or discoloration, clean them immediately or replace damaged components.

5. No Unplugged Devices Left Idle: Unplug electrical appliances that are not in use, especially when leaving home for extended periods, to reduce standby power risks.

6. Must Have Safety Certification: Only purchase electrical appliances and lighting products with certified safety labels that are approved by government regulations to ensure safe usage.

The Department also reminds the public to be cautious with lithium batteries, which are now widely used in mobile electronics and electric vehicles. Improper use—such as overcharging, deep discharging, or exposing batteries to moisture, impact, or compression—can cause serious safety issues. Select products with certified safety markings and follow proper usage guidelines. 

Taipei City has once again claimed the top position in the 2024 Overall and Sustainable Competitiveness Survey of Counties and Cities conducted by Global Views Monthly, marking its fourth consecutive year as the overall champion. Notably, the city also ranked first among the six special municipalities in the category of “Public Safety and Fire Protection.” In light of this achievement, the Fire Department urges the public to adopt proper disaster prevention knowledge, which can significantly reduce the risk of emergencies and help maintain a safe living environment. For more information on disaster prevention, visit “Disaster Preparedness Taipei” website. eoc網址