Six people were taken to hospital following a fire that broke out at Block 104 Jalan Bukit Merah on 10 September. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) reported that they were alerted to the fire at approximately 11:20 am.
Background
The fire involved a bedroom in a 9th-floor unit and was extinguished by firefighters using a water jet. The rest of the unit sustained significant heat and smoke damage. Photos released by the SCDF showed the charred remains of the room, extensive damage to the bedroom door, and exposed brickwork. The corridor outside the flat was also affected.
35 residents evacuated by SCDF
Two individuals had evacuated from the unit before the SCDF arrived. As a precautionary measure, around 35 residents from the ninth to the 11th floor were evacuated by the SCDF. Six people from neighbouring units were assessed by paramedics for smoke inhalation and were conveyed to Singapore General Hospital. The SCDF stated that the fire likely started in the bedroom, and the cause is currently under investigation.
Impact on the community
The incident has raised concerns among residents about fire safety in high-rise buildings. One resident, Mr. Tan, who lives on the 10th floor, said, “It was terrifying to see the smoke and hear the alarms. We are grateful for the quick response from the SCDF.” The SCDF has reiterated the importance of having working smoke detectors and practising fire evacuation drills.
Previous incidents
This is not the first time a fire has caused significant disruption in the Bukit Merah area. In March 2022, a “raging” fire in another HDB flat led to five people being hospitalised. These incidents highlight the ongoing need for stringent fire safety measures and community awareness.
Future implications
The SCDF is expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire and recommend any necessary safety improvements. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any potential fire hazards. The community can also expect increased fire safety campaigns and possibly more frequent inspections to prevent future incidents.
