A fire broke out in a Punggol Housing Board (HDB) flat on January 26, leading to the evacuation of over 60 residents and sending one individual to the hospital. The incident highlights the importance of fire safety precautions, especially regarding electrical sources in homes. Here’s a detailed look at what happened and essential safety tips from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).
Punggol Flat Fire: Incident Overview
In the early hours of January 26, a fire broke out at Block 224A Sumang Lane in Punggol. Firefighters from Punggol, Sengkang, and Tampines fire stations were alerted to the blaze at around 5 AM.
When the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) arrived, thick black smoke was seen billowing from a seventh-floor unit.
Evacuations and Casualties
- Four individuals managed to evacuate the affected unit before SCDF arrived.
- Approximately 60 residents from nearby units were evacuated as a precaution.
- One individual suffered from smoke inhalation and was transported to Singapore General Hospital.
Fire Cause and SCDF Findings
SCDF’s preliminary investigation suggests that the fire likely originated from an electrical source in the bedroom.
The fire was successfully extinguished using a water jet, preventing further damage to surrounding units.
Rising Fire Incidents: A Concerning Trend
In 2023, Singapore recorded 1,954 fire incidents, marking an 8.6% increase from 2022. Of these, 970 occurred in residential buildings, with electrical issues being the leading cause.
Key Statistics (2022 vs. 2023)
- Electrical-related fires: 597 cases
- Unattended cooking fires: 456 cases
- Fire-related injuries: Reduced from 171 to 81
- Fire-related deaths: Reduced from eight to three
SCDF’s Fire Safety Tips
To reduce the risk of electrical fires, SCDF advises the following:
- Avoid overloading power sockets with multiple appliances.
- Switch off electrical devices when not in use.
- Inspect wires regularly for wear and tear; replace damaged ones immediately.
- Avoid leaving devices or batteries charging unattended, especially overnight.
- Keep wires away from hot surfaces and avoid running them under carpets or mats.
- Use electrical products that carry the Safety Mark certification for added reliability.
Community Reminder
Incidents like the Punggol flat fire emphasize the importance of staying vigilant about fire safety at home. Residents are encouraged to ensure their homes are equipped with basic fire safety equipment, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
For more detailed fire safety guidelines, visit SCDF’s official website.
