The number of fires in the Brest region decreased by almost 9% in 2023

18 January, Brest. The number of fires in Brest Oblast decreased by almost 9% in 2023 compared to 2022, the HEAD of the Brest Oblast Department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations Valery Rudolf reported at a press conference, BELTA has learned.

Last year, 826 fires occurred in the southwestern region, while in 2022 there were 904. Fire-related emergencies killed 75 people, including four children. "We have a decrease in the number of fires by 78 cases. We have maintained the positive dynamics of reducing the number of fatalities," said Valery Rudolf. "Human negligence remains the main cause of death. In 80% of cases, it is careless handling of fire, in 65% - smoking. According to the results of the examination, 79% of the deceased were intoxicated."

The head of the Brest Regional Department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations also noted that the unusually cold winter had made some negative adjustments. In the southwestern region, the number of fires this January has increased by almost a third compared to the same period in 2022, and the death toll has more than tripled (three people died in fires in January 2022, and ten now). "Investigative measures are underway, but we can see the reasons based on the nature of the damage. So far, the working version remains - careless handling of fire, in particular smoking," explained Valery Rudolf.

Last year, 115 people were rescued from various emergencies in the Brest region, including fires, road accidents, and those lost in ecosystems. "The implemented preventive measures allowed us to reduce the number of fires in ecosystems by 4.5 times. We carried out 36 trips to search for people. Almost all of them were found. Two people are wanted by the Department of Internal Affairs. According to the civil defense, all organizations that have personal protective equipment are using them in normal condition. Inspections have been carried out. All shelters are also ready to perform tasks related to civil defense. We are keeping this issue under special control," the head of the regional UMChS emphasized.