China reports 2,099 fires during holiday

BEIJING - China reported 2,099 fires during the three-day New Year holiday which started on Saturday, said a statement of the Ministry of Public Security on Monday.

No fire accidents involving more than 3 deaths were reported nationwide, the statement said.

Fire departments have strengthened inspections to ensure safety in crowded places including entertainment shows and shopping malls, it said.

More than 38,000 fire fighters have been deployed to deal with emergency, rescuing or evacuating 757 trapped people and saving properties worth of more than 40 million yuan ($5.8 million).