Winter Icicle Hazards in Seoul Prompt Over 1,200 Emergency Calls in Three Years
Icicles have proven to be a recurring winter hazard in Seoul, prompting 1,239 emergency responses over the past three years, with nearly half of these incidents occurring in January.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Fire & Disaster Headquarters, emergency crews responded to 451 icicle-related safety incidents in 2022, 527 in 2023, and 261 in 2024 during the winter months of January, February, and December. January alone accounted for 682 cases, representing 55 percent of the total. December saw 389 incidents, followed by 168 in February.
Notably, January 2023, marked by frequent cold wave advisories, peaked at 260 emergency responses for icicle hazards. In comparison, there were 55 cases in January 2022 and 43 in January 2024.
Icicles form when temperatures fluctuate between freezing and thawing, often accumulating on rooftops, outdoor pipes, and other exposed structures. Their potential to cause injuries or property damage upon falling underscores the importance of monitoring and removing them safely.
Due to the likelihood of recurring cold spells, the fire department emphasized the importance of regularly checking building exteriors for icicles. Residents are advised not to attempt removing large icicles that form in high places themselves and to contact emergency services at 119 for assistance.
J.K. Park Staff Reporter junior/1738890987/1613367801
1. What problem do icicles cause in Seoul during winter?
2. When do most icicle-related emergencies happen?
3. What should people do if they see a large icicle in a high place?
4. How do icicles form?
1. Have you ever seen an icicle? Where was it?
2. What do you do to stay safe during winter?
3. Have you ever slipped on ice or snow? What happened?
4. What do you like or dislike about winter? Why?