With the arrival of the dry season in Yangon, we’ve sadly been seeing a rise in fire-related incidents across the city. A small moment of negligence can lead to a lifetime of regret. At MY Yangon, we care about your safety, so we’ve put together this essential guide to help you protect your home and loved ones from fire hazards.

1. Be Smart with Electricity

Power fluctuations and electrical faults are leading causes of fires, especially when power is restored after an outage.

• Unplug: When leaving the house or going to bed, unplug non-essential appliances like air conditioners, electric kettles, and TVs.
• Charging Safety: Avoid charging phones or power banks overnight. Overheating can  easily trigger a fire.
• Don't Overload: Avoid plugging too many high-wattage devices into a single extension cord or power strip.

2. Kitchen Vigilance

The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it’s also where many fires start.

• Never Leave Cooking Unattended: If you need to leave the kitchen, even for a minute, turn off the stove.
• Check Your Gas: For those using LPG cylinders, ensure the valves are tightly closed after use. Check hoses regularly for leaks using a simple soapy water test.
• Candles and Incense: If you light candles or incense for religious purposes, ensure they are placed in sturdy holders away from curtains or any flammable materials.

3. Yard Maintenance and Debris

Dry leaves and trash can act as fuel for a stray spark.

• Clear the Clutter: Keep your surroundings free of dry leaves and combustible waste.
• Cigarette Discards: If you smoke, ensure cigarette butts are completely extinguished before disposal. Never flick them into dry grass or trash bins.
• Controlled Burning: If you must burn trash, avoid doing so during high winds and never leave the fire unattended.

4. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Prevention is key, but preparation is life-saving.

• Fire Extinguishers: Every household should have at least one fire extinguisher. Make sure everyone in the family knows how to use it.
• Clear Exit Paths: Ensure that doorways and emergency exits are never blocked by furniture or boxes.
• Emergency Contacts: Save the local fire department's number in your phone and post a physical copy in a visible spot at home.

MY Yangon’s Take: Fire safety isn't just a personal responsibility; it's a community effort. By staying alert and taking these simple precautions, we can keep our neighborhoods safe.

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and let’s protect our Yangon together!