The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) has been increasing its inspections of malls, discotheques and pubs amid year-end festivities.

It said yesterday that it is all the more important for places of recreation such as shopping centres and hotels to be mindful of fire safety as the year draws to a close, with higher footfall expected in these buildings.

An enforcement operation it conducted on Friday at two shopping malls and nine public entertainment outlets already found several lapses such as obstructions to escape routes.

"SCDF takes fire-safety violations seriously and will not hesitate to take tough enforcement action against offenders," it said.

It said that overcrowding in pubs and discos should be avoided and fire exit doors should be functional.

The force also highlighted several season-appropriate precautions for home owners, such as switching off decorative Christmas lights when leaving the home or going to bed.

Decorations made of flammable materials like cardboard or light tissue paper should be kept away from naked flames like candles. Lit sparklers should also never be thrown at combustible materials.

Anyone who spots a fire hazard is urged to report it to the SCDF on 1800-280-0000 or e-mail SCDF_Fire_Safety_Feedback@ scdf.gov.sg