Fire Safety for Every Singaporean Home
- 17 Apr 2025
Fire safety is a vital part of protecting lives and property in Singapore. With many people living in high-rise HDB flats and condos, have you ever thought about being prepared with fire safety knowledge to prevent small incidents from turning into major disasters?
Here’s what every Singaporean homeowner should know, and own, for proper fire preparedness.
Why Fire Safety Matters in Singapore Homes
Fire risks can escalate quickly (choy). Whether caused by cooking mishaps, faulty appliances, or electrical issues, home fires are more common than most people realise.
Fire safety tools act as your first line of defence—helping you detect fires early, stop them before they spread, and evacuate safely. Under Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) regulations, certain safety features (like smoke detectors) are now mandatory in new flats.
3 months ago, a fire broke out in a Hougang flat. SCDF responded promptly, extinguishing the fire by 3:15 PM using three water jets and a firefighting robot. During the operation, three individuals were found deceased in a bedroom and were pronounced dead at the scene. Approximately 30 residents from the affected block were evacuated as a precautionary measure.
In 2024, the total number of fire incidents increased slightly by 1.8% to 1,990 cases. Residential fires remained stable at 968 incidents. Fires involving AMDs continued to be a concern, with 67 cases reported, up 21.8% from 2023. Situations like this underscore the importance of fire safety awareness and training, such as Fire Watch courses, to help families respond effectively during emergencies and potentially save lives.
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Good-to-Have Fire Safety Tools for Singaporean HouseholdsMost of us don’t have a fire extinguisher in our kitchen, or a smoke detector outside the one built into the stove. But a few small steps can go a long way in improving fire safety at home! Here are some simple tools that can make a big difference in an emergency.
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Proper Maintenance of Fire Safety Equipment
Having the right tools is just the start, you will also need to maintain them! Imagine having an expired fire extinguisher when you really need one. Here’s how to keep everything in working order:
- Smoke Detectors: Test monthly and replace batteries yearly. It is a requirement for new BTO flats’, totally not forcing you.
- Fire Extinguishers: Check pressure levels, ensure the safety pin is intact, and inspect for damage.
- Fire Blankets: Ensure they remain sealed and undamaged. Replace them after use, even if only partially used.
Keep a checklist somewhere maybe on your refrigerator where everyone can help to be aware and maintain them.
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What If My Neighbour’s House Catches FireFire safety isn’t just about protecting your own home — it’s also about knowing how to respond when a fire breaks out nearby. If your neighbour’s house is on fire, your quick and calm actions can help save lives and prevent the fire from spreading. Here’s what you should do:
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The Role of Training in Fire Safety Preparedness
Having fire safety tools is only part of the solution. Knowing how to use them is equally important.
If you’re keen to learn how to better protect yourself and your loved ones from fire hazards, Advance Safe Consultants offers a Fire Safety Course designed to keep you informed and prepared. This program covers:
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How to use fire extinguishers correctly
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Evacuation procedures for homes and offices
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Fire drills and hazard identification
By combining training with equipment, you strengthen your fire preparedness significantly.
Final Thoughts
Fire safety should be a priority in every Singaporean home. By equipping your space and educating your family members, you build a safer environment for everyone. Begin by assessing your needs, acquiring the right tools, and ensuring they are well maintained and understood.
Stay prepared. Stay safe. Contact Advance Safe Consultants today and take the first step toward a fire-safe environment.
