Electric Stove Fires Increased to 434 Last Year; Government Confirms Hatz Product Recall

Fires caused by electric stoves rose from 350 in 2023 to 434 last year, prompting the government to urge consumers to follow safety guidelines and check for recalled products. Users are advised to avoid leaving cooking unattended and to keep flammable materials away from the stove. They should also verify the model name and manufacturing date of their appliances and stop using them immediately if they are subject to recall.

On September 21, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the National Fire Agency, and the Korea Consumer Agency announced a joint campaign to promote safety guidelines and check for recalled products to prevent electric stove fires.

According to the National Fire Information System, electric stove fires have shown an upward trend, with 350 incidents in 2023, 369 in 2024, and 434 in 2025. As of August this year, there have been 257 reported cases. Most of these fires are attributed to consumer negligence, with 1,242 incidents caused by leaving food unattended or failing to monitor flammable materials.

To enhance safety, the agencies recommend that consumers adhere to the following guidelines: do not leave cooking unattended, ensure the stove is turned off after use, keep flammable materials such as paper and cloth away, and use locking features to prevent accidental activation by pets.

Consumers should also check if their current electric stove is subject to recall. Ten models from Hatz are currently under recall. Users should compare the model name and manufacturing date listed on the product with recall information. If they own a recalled product, they should stop using it immediately and contact Hatz customer support or visit their website for safety instructions.

The National Standards Agency stated, "Electric stove fires can be prevented through small daily practices. We hope consumers will incorporate safety guidelines into their routines and carefully check recall information to help prevent electric stove fires."

* This article has been translated by AI.