One of the main causes of fires in winter is the overload of electrical appliances, which leads to short circuits and overheating;
Improper use of heating devices, such as drying clothes on radiators, and placing heaters near flammable items can also be dangerous;
Open flames, including candles and fireplaces, pose a serious threat when left unattended — they can result in a fire;
Insufficient preparedness of residents, who do not check equipment, do not plan evacuation routes, and do not use basic protective measures such as smoke detectors;
Basic measures to protect homes and lives:
Regular inspection of electrical appliances and avoiding overload of electrical outlets;
Heaters should be kept at a safe distance from furniture and other flammable materials;
Do not leave candles and open flames unattended;
It is necessary to plan evacuation routes in advance and ensure they are easily accessible;
It is important to explain to children the proper handling of fire and to keep matches and lighters in inaccessible places.
Analysis shows that most winter fires can be prevented by following simple precautions. A responsible attitude towards safety at home helps to preserve not only property but also lives, and habits can prove crucial in a difficult situation.
Fire situation in Kyrgyzstan
In Bishkek, several major fires have occurred in the past month, highlighting the dangers of the winter season.
On November 15, 2025, a fire broke out in one of the apartment buildings on Ch. Aitmatov Avenue. Four fire crews and the Ministry of Emergency Situations arrived at the scene. As a result of the evacuation, rescuers brought out 50 residents, and the area of the fire was about 800 square meters. Two people were injured, while the other residents were successfully evacuated.
On December 9, 2025, a fire occurred in a café on Erkindik Boulevard, where two fire crews were used to extinguish it. As a result of the incident, a woman was injured and diagnosed with "carbon monoxide poisoning."
On December 10, 2025, a fire occurred in a high-rise building on Ankara Street, where the area of the fire was about 70 square meters. 30 people were evacuated, and there were no injuries. Three fire crews and a ladder truck were involved in the extinguishing efforts.
These events highlight that winter fires can occur not only in old or emergency buildings but also in modern residential complexes. The main threat lies in the rapid spread of fire, which can lead to tragic consequences if residents are not prepared for an emergency situation.
