Recent fire incidents in HDB flats have raised concerns across Singapore, with several cases leading to tragic fatalities. In densely populated estates, fire spreads quickly, and smoke inhalation can be just as deadly as the flames. The good news: most fires at home are preventable with the right habits and vigilance.
Common Causes of Home Fires in Singapore
According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), the main culprits behind residential fires include:
- Unattended cooking – Oil and overheated pans ignite within seconds.
- Electrical overloads – Overcharging devices, faulty plugs, and daisy-chained extension cords.
- Discarded cigarettes – Still one of the top causes of fatal fires in Singapore flats.
- Cluttered corridors – Paper, textiles, and furniture fuel fires and block escape routes.
Fire Prevention Tips Every Household Should Follow
Keeping your home safe starts with small, consistent actions:
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking. If you need to step away, turn off the stove.
- Use original chargers and avoid overcharging devices overnight.
- Check appliances regularly and replace damaged plugs or frayed wires.
- Keep escape routes clear by avoiding clutter in corridors and stairwells.
- Install smoke alarms (Home Fire Alarm Devices). Flats built before 2019 are encouraged to retrofit them.
What To Do in Case of a Fire
If a fire breaks out in your home:
- Raise the alarm immediately and alert your neighbours.
- Call 995 for SCDF assistance.
- Stay low if there’s smoke, as toxic gases rise quickly.
- Never take the lift; use the stairs instead.
- If trapped, move into a safe room with windows, seal gaps with wet towels, and signal for help.
Reporting Fire Hazards in HDB Blocks
Fire safety is a community effort, and vigilance goes beyond your own flat. If you notice potential fire hazards in shared spaces, here’s what you can do:
- Town Council or OneService App
For general hoarding concerns, contact your Town Council or use the OneService App to report the issue. The app is also useful for flagging public health and safety risks linked to hoarding, such as pest infestations. - SCDF Fire Safety Hotline
If you spot combustible items left in HDB corridors or notice practices that could spark a fire, call the SCDF Fire Safety Hotline at 1800-280-0000. A timely report could prevent disaster for your entire block.
Fire safety in Singapore starts at home. By practising simple fire-safe habits, maintaining vigilance, and looking out for one another, we can protect our families and communities from avoidable disasters.
