On 12 November 2024, Singapore witnessed two alarming incidents that set off safety alerts among residents—one involving a fire in a Yishun HDB flat and another a motorcycle accident in Eunos.
Fire Breaks Out in Yishun Flat
A fire ignited in the kitchen of a second-floor HDB flat at Block 839 Yishun St 81 around 10.10am. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) reported that the flames were swiftly extinguished using a water jet. One occupant, an elderly resident who felt unwell, was taken to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.
- Cause: Preliminary findings suggest the fire stemmed from cooking left unattended.
- Witness Account: A nearby resident, identified only as Ng, reported seeing thick smoke escaping from the flat, prompting her to investigate.
- Assistance: Lee Hui Ying, MP for Nee Soon GRC, was seen at the scene ensuring the elderly lady was attended to.
Lee mentioned that grassroots volunteers would assist the elderly woman following her discharge, including helping clear out damaged furniture and repaint her flat.
Motorcycle Accident in Eunos
In a separate incident, a 67-year-old male motorcyclist was hospitalised after a lorry collided with his bike at Eunos. A video of the incident shared in the SG Road Vigilante Facebook group showed the lorry rear-ending the motorcycle at a junction.
- Injuries: The motorcyclist was transported to Changi General Hospital but remained conscious.
- Investigation: The 35-year-old lorry driver is currently assisting the police with their inquiries.
The police have been alerted to the accident, and investigations are ongoing.
Public Safety Reminder
Following these incidents, the SCDF urges the public to take precautions, especially while cooking. Don’t leave your cooking unattended! Ensure all gas and electric switches are turned off when not in use to prevent such hazardous situations.