According to the Bangkok Fire and Rescue Department, electrical faults were the leading cause of the 1,745 fires recorded in Bangkok between 2023 and 2025, accounting for 823 cases in total.
Main causes of fires in Bangkok
Faulty electrical appliances accounted for the largest share, with 311 cases, followed by wall sockets and wiring, with 269 cases, and extension cords, with 243 cases.
Incense and candles caused 136 fires, while cooking, food warming and faulty gas cylinders were responsible for 108 cases.
Open burning of grass and rubbish, together with discarded cigarette butts, accounted for the remaining 62 cases.
Fire-prevention checklist
To help residents develop safer habits and prevent fires, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has grouped precautions into four key categories based on the leading causes of fires in the capital.
1. Electrical systems and appliances
When buying electrical appliances, residents should look for products bearing the Thai Industrial Standards (TIS) mark, rated for Thailand’s voltage and covered by a clear warranty.
Wiring and sockets should be checked regularly. Any signs of scorching, damage or looseness should be repaired immediately. Daisy-chaining multiple extension cords is not recommended, and users should remain alert for unusual sounds while appliances are operating.
After use, appliances should be unplugged, while sockets should be cleaned regularly to prevent dust build-up, which can contribute to sparking.
2. Incense and candles
Before lighting incense or candles, choose a stable location away from flammable materials such as curtains and stacks of paper. Extra care is needed in homes with young children, elderly residents or bedridden patients.
Once lit, incense and candles should never be left unattended. Make sure they are fully extinguished before leaving home or going to bed.
3. Cooking and gas cylinders
Before cooking, check stoves and gas lines for leaks, and use them in a well-ventilated area.
Never leave a stove unattended while cooking.
After cooking, turn off the gas valve and stove, and clean away accumulated grease, which can act as a readily available fuel source.
4. Burning rubbish, grass and cigarettes
People are urged to avoid burning rubbish or dry leaves, opting instead for composting or proper waste separation.
Smoking should be confined to designated areas. Cigarette butts must be fully extinguished before disposal to prevent them from igniting nearby flammable materials.
Survival guide for fire emergencies
Officials are also urging the public to prepare in advance and learn how to respond safely to fires and smoke. The following guidance is recommended:
1. Assess the situation.
If you smell smoke or hear an alarm, touch the door handle with the back of your hand. If it’s hot, do not open it as fire may be on the other side. For a small fire, use a fire extinguisher immediately. If it has spread, evacuate at once and call the 199 hotline.
2. Stay calm and report the incident.
Do not panic. Assess the safest escape routes. When calling the 199 hotline, clearly state the location, the building’s layout and escape routes, and the number of people trapped so officers can respond quickly.
3. Using a fire extinguisher (pull-aim-squeeze-sweep).
Pull the pin, aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle and sweep from side to side. After use, ventilate the area, wear a face mask and have the extinguisher refilled immediately, as it cannot be reused as is.
4. Techniques for escaping smoke.
Crouch or crawl close to the ground, where the air may be more breathable. Cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth. Do not hide in a bathroom or other enclosed space. Move towards a window to signal for help and leave the area as quickly as possible. Avoid opening doors leading to smoke-filled rooms.