BEIJING — The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) on July 24 called on the public to enhance precautions against heat stroke and fire hazards while many cities suffer prolonged hot weather.

The public should increase their fire safety awareness, while companies and public institutions should take measures for fire prevention, said the fire department of the MPS.

Companies, public institutions and family households alike should update obsolete electrical appliances and turn off power after use, according to the MPS.

The MPS also urged companies and public institutions to intensify patrols to eliminate possible dangers.

Much of China has been hit by a heat wave, with temperatures in a number of major cities hitting 37 to 39 degrees Celsius, according to the National Meteorological Center.