Residents and Travelers Urged to Use Electric Heaters Safely as Japan Enters Dry Winter

---

As Japan enters its cold and dry winter season, the risk of electrical fires is increasing. The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative advises travelers to use electric heaters and appliances safely, keep rooms ventilated, maintain safe distances from flammable objects, and check plugs and outlets to ensure a warm and safe stay in Japan.

---

TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE) – Japan’s winters are cold and dry, and homes and accommodations often use various electric heating devices. With the increased use of heaters, extension cords, and high-power appliances, the incidence of electrical fires has risen significantly. According to statistics from the Fire and Disaster Management Agency of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, a total of 37,036 fires occurred nationwide in 2024, averaging more than 100 per day. Residential fires accounted for about one-third of these, resulting in 970 deaths. Although a decrease in the smoking population and the widespread use of safety devices have reduced some fires, electrical fires continue to rise, becoming a safety concern during winter.

Many residences and accommodation facilities use high-powered appliances such as electric heaters, kotatsu (heated tables), electric blankets, or hair dryers simultaneously. If these appliances are plugged into extension cords simultaneously, it can easily exceed power limits, leading to overheating or short circuits and fires. Experts recommend plugging high-power appliances directly into wall sockets whenever possible, avoiding the use of multi-socket extension cords. If extension cords are necessary, choose products with only a single socket and ensure that the plug and socket are clean, free of dust and deformation. These small actions can effectively reduce the risk of fire.

The National Institute of Technology and Evaluation (NITE) in Japan reported 596 incidents related to large heating equipment between 2020 and 2024, 80% of which involved electric heaters or kerosene heaters. When using these devices, always check the condition of the cords and plugs, do not connect too many extension cords, and keep them away from walls, furniture, curtains, and clothing. Always turn off the power before leaving the house or going to bed.

Some people use electric heaters to dry clothes in winter, but if clothes are too close to a heat source, they can easily catch fire. There have been cases in Japan where robot vacuums accidentally knocked over electric heaters, causing fires; therefore, it is not recommended to use standing electric heaters and robot vacuums simultaneously in the same space. Even if an electric heater has anti-tipping or automatic shut-off functions, it should not be left running while sleeping or when you are away from home.

The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative, an organization dedicated to smart living, reminds travelers to be aware of the condition of electrical wiring when staying in guesthouses or long-term rentals in Japan. Older buildings have limited electrical capacity, and using multiple high-power appliances simultaneously can cause the wiring to overheat. The association recommends that if you notice any unusual odor, overheating, or discoloration in an outlet, you should immediately stop using it and notify the landlord or property management. Maintaining ventilation, following product instructions, and ensuring that there are no flammable materials around heating equipment are the most effective ways to prevent fires.

Overseas travelers should also note that Japan uses 100 volts, which differs from most countries. When using adapters or power banks, you must confirm that they meet Japanese voltage standards. Some cheap or uncertified adapters may overheat and catch fire due to poor quality. When checking into a hotel or guesthouse, please carefully read the room safety instructions and be sure to turn off all heating equipment before leaving.

Media Contacts:
Kanto Smart Living Cooperative

PR Agency:
MERXWIRE INC.
Ada Huang
pr@merxwire.com

SOURCE: Kanto Smart Living Cooperative