SINGAPORE - Greater care should be exercised when conducting religious activities and rituals during the Seventh Month festival from July 27, a period also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival.

In a statement on Sunday, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said instances of burning of incense papers and joss sticks are expected to increase during this period, and reminded members of the public to be more careful when doing so.

It also provided fire safety tips to minimise potential hazards. This includes:

- Burning incense paper in the incense burners or metal containers provided by the Town Councils in public housing estates. Those who live in private residential properties are also encouraged to use incense paper burners.

- Placing the burners or containers on sturdy ground and at a safe distance away from flammable materials and locations, such as the switch room or other residential premises.

- Checking the area for smouldering incense or embers and making sure that the fires are completely put out before leaving.

- Avoiding the throwing of lighted materials such as candles and matches onto grass patches and fields as these may start a fire.