Opportunists at work: Fire extinguisher prices have doubled!

Fire extinguisher prices have skyrocketed following the fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in the Bolu Kartalkaya Ski Center.

It was observed that the price of a mini fire extinguisher, which was 414 liras one day before the fire (January 19), rose to 735 liras one day after the fire (January 21).

Similarly, it was observed that prices for products such as fire extinguishing apparatus, fire blankets, and smoke detectors also saw increases of up to 100 percent.

Some business owners operating in the fire safety sector stated that after this major disaster, many structures realized their shortcomings and began making emergency purchases.

Relevant business officials emphasized that demand, especially for small-scale fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, has increased rapidly. However, it was stated that some businesses turned this situation into an opportunity and implemented price hikes.

Speaking to Türkiye Gazetesi, Ramazan Bulut, who sells workplace safety products in Sefaköy, Istanbul, said, "We are very saddened by the major disaster that occurred. This situation showed us that some precautions need to be taken in advance. We do not have sufficient preparation for natural disasters, especially fire. The hotel in Bolu is just one example; most businesses do not have sufficient competence in these matters. The expiration dates of most fire extinguishers have passed. Businesses manage to evade inspections somehow. Let's give a simple example, not just for workplaces or collective housing. Even for cars to pass inspection, a fire extinguisher is borrowed from another vehicle. We are acting very recklessly in this regard."

Stating that the demand for fire equipment has increased after the fire in Bolu, the business owner said, "Our phones have started ringing more often. Those asking for fire extinguishers are the most frequent. Apart from that, smoke detectors, fire extinguishing sprays, and blankets are being asked for. I recommend that our consumers buy such products from local shops rather than online. Because prices can be abused on the internet. A product that was 300 liras before the fire has risen to 800-900 liras immediately after the fire. However, a shopkeeper with a physical store does not raise prices that much all of a sudden. Therefore, both for safety reasons and to avoid being exposed to exorbitant price increases, purchases should be made from local tradespeople."