Goh Pei Ming on fire safety in residential buildings

Summary of Parliamentary Discussion on Residential Fire Safety in Singapore

Key Concepts:

• SCDF: Singapore Civil Defence Force – the primary agency responsible for firefighting and rescue operations.
• Fire Code: A set of regulations outlining fire safety requirements for buildings in Singapore.
• MCST: Management Corporation Strata Title – responsible for managing common areas in strata-titled residential developments.
• Town Councils: Local government bodies responsible for managing public housing estates.
• HFAD: Home Fire Alarm Device – a subsidized fire alarm for seniors.
• Refuge Floor: A designated safe space within high-rise buildings for evacuees during a fire.
• Rising Mains: A network of pipes within a building providing water supply for firefighting purposes.
• Community Resilience Days: SCDF-led outreach events to educate the public on fire safety.
• Responder Plus Program: SCDF’s community engagement program focusing on fire safety education and training.

1. Fire Statistics and Trends (2024-2025)

In 2025, Singapore recorded 151 residential building fires, a slight increase from 968 in 2024. Despite this increase, the percentage of fires relative to the total dwelling stock has decreased from 0.067% in 2021 to 0.065% in 2025, indicating overall improved fire safety within the growing housing stock. The discussion was prompted by recent tragic fires, including one in Hong Kong (Wongfoot fire in November), prompting a review of regulations concerning construction and maintenance work. The government is currently reviewing regulations related to construction and maintenance work to better manage fire risks, with findings to be announced soon.

2. Singapore’s Multifaceted Approach to Fire Safety

The government employs a four-pronged approach to fire safety:

• Good Fire Safety Design: Buildings are constructed according to the prevailing Fire Code, including compartmentalization of units to limit fire spread, adequate staircases for evacuation, fire engine access roads, and rising mains for SCDF operations.
• Enforcement: SCDF enforces compliance with fire safety regulations, taking action against Town Councils and MCSTs for fire hazards in common areas.
• Effective Firefighting Response: SCDF continuously reviews firefighting tactics and equipment, exploring new technologies like aerial appliances (reaching up to 90m) and surveillance drones.
• Public Preparedness: SCDF conducts outreach programs like Community Resilience Days to educate residents on fire prevention, extinguisher use, CPR, and AED operation. Collaborations with agencies like the People’s Association and Land Transport Authority through programs like “Better Awareness Safer Homes” and “B Device Safe” further enhance awareness.

3. Specific Regulations for High-Rise Buildings

High-rise buildings (above 24m/8 stories) are subject to additional fire safety provisions:

• Fire lifts for rapid SCDF access.
• Buildings exceeding 40 stories require at least one refuge floor per 20 stories, providing a safe holding space for evacuees.
• Robust water supply through rising mains.
• Fire-rated walls and doors to contain fire spread.

4. Concerns Raised Regarding Recent Fires and Vulnerable Populations

Members of Parliament (MPs) raised concerns about three fire-related deaths in Singapore in the past year, specifically citing an incident in Tampoyoh where evacuation difficulties contributed to fatalities. The increasing density of housing, coupled with an aging population with mobility challenges, necessitates a re-evaluation of fire safety measures. MPs questioned the effectiveness of current evacuation procedures and suggested implementing fire drills in public housing estates, fostering neighborly support networks, and enhancing education.

5. SCDF’s Response to Concerns and Community Engagement

The Ministry of State (MOS) acknowledged the importance of public preparedness and education, emphasizing that a prepared public is the best defense against fires. SCDF actively collaborates with agencies and grassroots leaders to raise awareness. Specific community engagement efforts include:

• Community Resilience Days: Regular outreach events.
• Responder Plus Program: Nationwide program offering fire safety training (over 60,000 participants from January 2024 to August 2025).
• Home Fire Alarm Devices (HFADs): Subsidized for seniors through the Enhancement for Active Seniors program.
• Community-led Initiatives: Examples like the “Fire Safety Kakis” initiative in Jalan Basar GRC, where neighbors assist vulnerable residents during emergencies.

The MOS highlighted unattended cooking as the primary cause of fires, emphasizing individual responsibility.

6. Inspection and Enforcement During Construction & Renovation

The MOS reassured the public that inspection and enforcement regimes during construction and renovation are robust. Requirements include:

• Use of non-combustible materials for scaffolding.
• Maintaining functionality of fire safety systems during work.
• Supervision of hot work and separation from flammable materials.
• Prohibition of bamboo scaffolding.
• Regular review of the Fire Code to incorporate best practices.

SCDF also offers programs to educate construction workers on fire safety.

7. SCDF Response Times and Operational Limits

SCDF aims to respond to most fire and rescue incidents within eight minutes, including those in high-rise buildings. Upon arrival, resources are deployed immediately. Challenges in high-rise firefighting include:

• Potential water pressure constraints.
• Access challenges.
• Evacuation difficulties.

SCDF mitigates these challenges through:

• Fire lifts.
• Rising mains.
• Fire-rated construction materials.

8. Addressing the Needs of the Elderly

Recognizing the vulnerability of the aging population, SCDF is strengthening support for elderly households:

• Promoting HFAD installation.
• Collaborating with communities to provide assistance to seniors during emergencies.

Notable Quotes:

• “A prepared and ready public is actually our best line of defense against fires.” – MOS
• “Every fire, every death is one too many.” – MOS, acknowledging the seriousness of recent incidents.

Conclusion:

The parliamentary discussion underscored Singapore’s commitment to maintaining a high level of fire safety through a comprehensive, multi-layered approach. While existing measures are considered robust, the recent tragic incidents and demographic shifts necessitate continuous review and adaptation. Emphasis was placed on strengthening public preparedness, particularly among vulnerable populations, and fostering community involvement in fire safety initiatives. The ongoing review of regulations concerning construction and maintenance work is a crucial step towards mitigating future risks.