At least six persons were killed in fire-related incidents as China celebrated the traditional Lantern Festival, authorities said today.
A total of 2,581 fire incidents were reported yesterday during the festival, which marks the end of lunar new year celebrations, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
People celebrate outdoors by lighting lanterns and setting off fireworks during the festival, which falls on the 15th day of the first month of the new lunar year.
Police patrolled venues vulnerable to fire incidents and residential neighbourhoods to spot risks. About 33,500 firefighters were deployed nationwide, the Ministry of Public Security said.
The ministry disseminated text messages and used social networking sites to spread information and enhance public awareness about fire prevention.
