Padang Fire Department Records Over 100 Fires Between January and April 2026

The Padang Fire Department recorded over 100 fire incidents during the period from January to April 2026. This figure serves as a reminder for the public to be more vigilant, especially when leaving their homes during holidays.

The Head of the Padang Fire Department, through the Head of the Operational and Infrastructure Division of the Padang Fire Department, Rinaldi, stated that the number of fire incidents since the beginning of the year is relatively high and needs to be a shared concern.

“From the beginning of the year until April, there have been approximately over one hundred fire incidents,” he said on Friday (15/5).

The Padang Fire Department recorded 30 fire incidents in January, 23 in February, 26 in March, and 28 in April. The objects affected by the fires were mostly houses, shops, warehouses, vehicles, land, and electrical cables and meters.

Electrical short circuits remain the primary cause of fires over the past four months. In January, there were 17 cases caused by electrical short circuits, 17 in February, an increase to 19 in March, and 20 in April. In addition, fires were also triggered by stoves, burning of land and garbage, and leaks of vehicle fuel.

Rinaldi assessed that the majority of fires are triggered by electrical short circuits due to the use of unsafe electrical installations and plugs.

“Looking at the frequency, most fire incidents are triggered by electrical short circuits,” he added.

In anticipation of the long holiday, the Padang Fire Department also reminded the public to ensure their homes are safe before leaving.

“We from the Fire Department appeal to all residents of Padang City, before leaving their homes, to unplug electrical devices, air conditioners, lights, and including electrical connections,” Rinaldi urged.

The Padang Fire Department hopes that public awareness of electrical safety and the use of household appliances will continue to increase, so that the number of fire incidents in Padang City can be reduced during the remainder of 2026. (YH)