Forum: Urgent need to step up fire prevention measures

The National Safety Council of Singapore is deeply concerned over the increasing number of fire incidents occurring in apartments and buildings across Singapore. These result not only in damage to property, but also in the loss of precious lives.

The recent fire in River Valley Road, where a 10-year-old girl tragically lost her life, is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of such incidents (

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

, April 8).

In the past few years, Singapore has also seen other serious incidents, such as the fire in a Bedok North flat that claimed three lives, and a blaze in Yishun which left several residents injured and displaced.

These incidents point to a worrying trend that cannot be ignored. While the emergency services have performed admirably, it is clear that more needs to be done in the realm of fire prevention and public awareness.

These questions need to be asked: Are residents in Singapore sufficiently informed and equipped to handle fire risks? Are older buildings adequately maintained to meet modern fire safety standards? And are fire prevention inspections and drills being carried out with enough regularity and rigour?

There is a pressing need to strengthen fire safety protocols, especially in residential buildings. This includes more frequent checks on electrical systems, better enforcement of clutter regulations in common corridors, and ensuring every household has access to basic fire-fighting equipment such as smoke detectors and extinguishers. We also urge that fire safety education be more deeply embedded in schools and community outreach programmes.

Every fire that results in injury or death is one too many. Singapore must act now to protect its people from preventable tragedies.

Ameerali Abdeali
Honorary President
National Safety Council of Singapore