Vehicle fires have shown a continuous increase over the past five years, data showed.

According to the National Fire Agency, a total of 18,417 vehicle fires occurred from 2021 to last year, resulting in 130 deaths and 769 injuries.

Property damage was estimated at 191.11 billion won.

Looking at the figures by year, vehicle fires increased from 3,493 in 2021 to 3,640 in 2022, 3,665 in 2023, 3,813 in 2024, and 3,806 last year.

By month, fires tended to concentrate in July (1,752 cases, 9.5%) and August (1,699 cases, 9.2%).

The National Fire Agency explained that during the summer, high temperatures easily raise engine temperatures, and running the air conditioner for extended periods puts a strain on the engine, increasing the risk of fire.

To prevent vehicle fires, the agency emphasized checking coolant and engine oil levels before long-distance driving and maintaining proper tire pressure.

It also advised against leaving flammable items such as auxiliary batteries and lighters—which are vulnerable to rising interior temperatures—inside vehicles, and urged drivers to periodically let engines cool down at rest areas to prevent overheating while keeping a vehicle fire extinguisher on hand.

(Photo: Yonhap News)