Forum: Consider centralised fire detection systems in housing estates

I was saddened to read about the tragic fire at Block 173 Toa Payoh Lorong 1 that claimed two lives (

Two found dead after fire in Toa Payoh flat

, July 23).

With six fire-related deaths already reported in 2025 – surpassing the total number in 2024 – we must re-examine not just fire prevention efforts, but also emergency detection and response systems in residential estates.

While the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) responds swiftly to such emergencies, precious minutes can make the difference between life and death, especially in smoke-filled units where victims may become unconscious quickly.

Could the authorities explore the feasibility of a centralised fire detection system that alerts emergency services the moment a fire alarm or smoke detector is triggered? This is similar to what some commercial buildings already have.

A connected system, perhaps prioritised for vulnerable residents such as seniors living alone or families with children, could trigger automatic alerts to SCDF when high-risk fire or smoke conditions are detected.

These systems need not be complex or prohibitively costly.

With today’s technology, smart detectors can be linked to mobile networks or the internet to send instant notifications, and even pinpoint the affected unit.

Piloting such initiatives in older estates or rental flats could be a good starting point.

Of course, prevention remains critical, but more can be done to improve chances of survival when fires do break out.

Gabriel Chia