Laotian fire fighters tackled fire emergency occured in Vientiane Capital in 2017. (Lao News Agency)
On July 2, Laos recorded 144 fire incidents across the country during the first half of 2026, leaving eight people dead, two injured and causing property damage valued at more than 319.6 billion Lao kip (14,3 million US dollars), according to the Fire Prevention and Suppression Police Department.
The figures were presented during the department’s mid-year performance review, chaired by the Deputy Director General of the Police Department, Colonel Vanthone Sourisak. Senior officials, including the Fire Prevention and Suppression Police Department Director Colonel Bonlivong Vonglouanglat, attended the meeting alongside departmental personnel.
Deputy Director Colonel Singkeo Vongphachan said the department has continued to strengthen both political education and professional training to improve the competence, discipline and operational preparedness of firefighting officers.
Of the total incidents, 20 occurred in the Vientiane Capital. The fires damaged 101 homes, with 16 completely destroyed. Other affected properties included a government office, four dormitory rooms, five warehouses, eight retail shops and 18 vehicles. Large quantities of timber and processed wood products were also destroyed. Investigations identified several causes, including cooking-related accidents, unattended candles, suspected arson and other contributing factors.
Two warehouse fires ranked among the most destructive incidents during the reporting period. A blaze in the Tonpheung District, Bokeo Province, in late April caused losses approaching 100 billion Lao kip (4.43 million US dollar), while another warehouse fire in Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital, in early June resulted in estimated damages of around 140 billion Lao kip (6,3 million US dollars)
The department said it will prioritise stronger fire prevention measures in the months ahead by expanding public awareness campaigns, enhancing personnel training as well as ensuring firefighting vehicles and equipment remain fully operational. Authorities will also continue strengthening the 1190 emergency hotline, which operates around the clock to provide rapid assistance during fire emergencies.
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