SINGAPORE - The Singapore Civil Defence Force is stepping up enforcement checks for fire safety during the year-end festive season, it said in a fire safety alert issued on Friday.

"SCDF takes a serious view against offenders flouting fire safety requirements," it said, adding that those who violate the Fire Safety Act may be fined up to $10,000, jailed for up to six months, or both.

Major offences, such as beginning fire safety works without receiving approval for the plan, carry a fine of up to $200,000, imprisonment for up to 24 months, or both.

The SCDF noted that the number of patrons and customers at commercial places is usually higher in the festive season.

"We would also like to remind owners and management of public buildings and places of recreation/entertainment including hotels and shopping centres to ensure compliance to all fire safety requirements," SCDF said.

It added that escape passageways should be free of obstructions and fire exit doors should be kept accessible. Overcrowding in public premises, especially entertainment outlets such as discos and pubs, should be avoided as it would impede evacuation.

Members of the public are urged to report fire hazards by calling 1800-280-0000, or e-mail SCDF_Fire_Safety_Feedback@scdf.gov.sg. There is also the mySCDF smartphone application, through which photographs and brief descriptions of fire hazards can be submitted.