News On Japan

The Dangers of 'Kotatsu' Fires: What You Need to Check Now to Protect Your Life

TOKYO, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - Kotatsu, a traditional Japanese heating appliance, is generally considered safe as it does not use direct flames or gas. However, fatal accidents occur every year. Here are some tips to use kotatsu safely.

Q: Is it true that people can die from using a kotatsu? Q: "I use my kotatsu throughout the winter. I've been told that kotatsus can be dangerous if not used safely, even though I think they are much safer than stoves or heaters. What should I be cautious about?"

A: Every year, there are fires that result in fatalities. Do not become complacent with familiarity, and make sure to check how you use it. Although kotatsu is a highly safe and convenient heating appliance, it's important to be aware of the dangers it poses, such as "low-temperature burns," "dehydration," and "accidents."

Infants, the elderly, and even adults who fall asleep in a kotatsu after drinking alcohol are at risk of low-temperature burns and dehydration. The potential for accidents is often overlooked, but injuries and accidents can occur if the tabletop shifts, the cord gets tangled, or the kotatsu futon accidentally covers someone's face.

Tragically, there are indeed people who lose their lives every year. The most critical concern is residential fires caused by kotatsu. Between fiscal year 2004 and 2009, there were 179 accidents related to kotatsu, resulting in 27 deaths. Reports indicate that 70% of the deceased were over 60 years old (according to a report by the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation (NITE), Tokyo). The Consumer Affairs Agency's report for fiscal year 2021 on "Number of Fires by Type and Cause" shows that out of the building fires in one year, 47 were caused by kotatsu.

It may be basic, but because a fire can be life-threatening, it's crucial not to be overconfident in its safety and to check if you're using it safely. Ensure the following:

- No cushions or clothing are inside the kotatsu. - No furniture is pressing down on the kotatsu's power cord. - The kotatsu heater is not collecting dust. - The power is not left on when the kotatsu is not in use.

Adhering to these safe usage practices is essential. Deaths caused by kotatsu can be prevented by avoiding fires.

Source: MDPR

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

Osaka-Kansai Expo will offer visitors a glimpse into the "future of food," with companies unveiling innovative dining experiences set to be featured at the event.

Panasonic Holdings has announced plans to dissolve its core subsidiary, Panasonic Corporation, and split it into three separate companies as part of its business restructuring efforts.

The 75th Sapporo Snow Festival kicked off on February 4th, drawing large crowds from both Japan and abroad to one of Hokkaido’s most iconic winter events.

A 55-year-old demolition worker has been arrested on suspicion of violating Hokkaido’s Public Nuisance Prevention Ordinance after entering a convenience store wearing only stockings on his lower body and exposing himself to a female clerk.

A series of monkey attacks on residents have been reported in Tokushima City since January, with cases involving elementary and junior high school students prompting heightened police patrols.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Education NEWS

Kyushu’s only juvenile detention center for girls, located in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City, houses ten girls aged 14 and older, each with their own reasons for being there.

As the April school enrollment season approaches, craftsmen at a long-established randoseru manufacturer in Sakurai, Nara Prefecture, are working at full capacity to complete the final batches of school bags.

Winter is harsh, but nature always finds a way to endure. In this video, I’ll show you how to paint a fluffy little bird braving the cold with soft, realistic textures using watercolor. From the subtle blending techniques to the fine details of feathers and snow, I’ll reveal the secrets to bringing life into your artwork! (Watercolor by Shibasaki)

Child consultation centers in Japan are at the forefront of efforts to protect children from abuse and make critical decisions about their care, including whether to return them to their families or place them in alternative arrangements. Despite their vital role, these centers are struggling under the weight of increasing workloads, rising abuse cases, and severe staff shortages, leading to high levels of burnout and resignations among welfare officers.

A day in the life of a Japanese High School Student in Kagoshima. This is the Japanese High school Student's morning routine, day at school, after school activities and night routine. (Paolo fromTOKYO)

Details of Fukuoka City's budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year have been revealed, highlighting new initiatives such as making school lunches free for elementary and junior high school students within the next year.

Instagram has introduced new restrictions for users aged 13 to 17 in Japan, aiming to address concerns about the app's impact on young users.

Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of Japan, worked hard to establish a military government and secure a legacy for his family. However, his plans unraveled after his untimely death in 1199 due to a horseback accident. (Linfamy)