Forum: Fire safety a personal responsibility, not just that of the authorities

My deepest condolences to the family of the 10-year-old girl who died in the River Valley Road fire (

10-year-old girl dies after fire breaks out at River Valley Road shophouse,

April 8).

After the fire occurred, many questioned the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the building’s owner over alleged lapses in fire safety. But are they solely responsible?

During my travels across Europe, the US, Japan and Canada, I’ve seen many beautiful wooden houses – some built closely together and many featuring open fireplaces.

A building engineer once told me that such structures are considered fire hazards in Singapore and would not be approved by BCA. It’s curious that other First World countries allow them, yet severe house fires are relatively rare.

So, what makes the difference?

In these countries, residents do not play with fire – literally and figuratively. They are deeply conscious of fire risks and take personal responsibility for fire prevention.

Fire safety is not just a regulation; it’s a mindset. Unfortunately, in Singapore, many of us tend to rely solely on the authorities for safety and do not actively cultivate fire awareness as part of our daily lives.

We must ask ourselves if we are doing our part.

Fire safety should not be an afterthought or outsourced responsibility. It should be a shared commitment – starting with our homes, workplaces, schools and communities. We need to educate our children, check our fire exits, test our alarms, and stay vigilant.

Rather than questioning SCDF or BCA, we must also look inward. Fire safety is not just the job of the authorities – it’s a personal responsibility. Let’s take ownership, because when it comes to fire, prevention is the best protection.

Goh Ee Kiat