Singapore witnessed two significant fires within a week, leading to evacuations and people being hospitalised for smoke inhalation.
Trailer Fire on Clementi Road
On 2 December 2024, a trailer caught fire along Clementi Road at around 2:55 PM. According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), a loud explosion was heard, followed by large plumes of smoke filling the air. A passer-by reported the pungent odour accompanying the incident.
- The fire was extinguished using a hosereel.
- One individual was taken to Singapore General Hospital for smoke inhalation.
- The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Fire at Boon Keng Coffee Shop
Just two days later, on 4 December 2024, a fire broke out at a coffee shop in Block 11 Upper Boon Keng Road shortly after midnight. The SCDF was alerted at 12:30 AM and found the kitchen exhaust duct ablaze, which caused damage to several stalls.
- Firefighters extinguished the blaze with two water jets.
- One person assessed for smoke inhalation was also taken to Singapore General Hospital.
- Residents reported a strong charred smell lingering in the air.
Sales manager Kaliraj, 38, who was among those evacuated, described the scene: “When we came out, it was already very smoky, the fire was up to the third, fourth floor.” Residents returned home around 3:30 AM after being assured it was safe.
The fire reportedly started from a zi char stall before spreading to the exhaust duct. One stall holder, identified as Chew, 40, shared he was awakened by firefighters while attempting to retrieve items from his stall.
Rising Fire Incidents
According to the SCDF’s annual statistics report released on 13 February, the number of fire incidents has risen from 1,954 in 2023 to 1,990 in 2024. The increase is attributed to higher incidences in commercial and communal areas, resulting in more serious outcomes, including fatalities rising from three in 2023 to five in 2024.