24-9-2024 (SINGAPORE) A tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday morning as a fire erupted in a high-rise flat in Choa Chu Kang, resulting in one fatality and prompting the evacuation of 150 residents. The blaze, which broke out in a ninth-floor unit, has left the local community in shock and raised questions about fire safety in residential buildings.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) responded swiftly to the emergency at 692A Choa Chu Kang Crescent at approximately 5:25 am. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a harrowing scene, with flames engulfing both the living room and a bedroom of the affected flat.
In a daring operation, SCDF personnel were forced to breach the flat’s entrance to gain access. Inside, they made a grim discovery – one occupant was found in one of the bedrooms. Despite the firefighters’ best efforts to rescue the individual, they were pronounced dead at the scene. The SCDF confirmed that no other persons were present in the affected unit at the time of the incident.
The intense heat and smoke from the fire caused extensive damage throughout the flat, serving as a stark reminder of the destructive power of household fires. Firefighters battled the blaze using a combination of a water jet and two compressed air foam backpacks, eventually bringing the situation under control.
As a precautionary measure, local police and SCDF officials coordinated the evacuation of approximately 150 residents from the block. This swift action highlights the potential dangers posed by fires in high-density housing areas and the importance of well-rehearsed emergency protocols.
The cause of the fire remains a mystery, with authorities launching a thorough investigation to determine the origin and circumstances leading to this tragic event. This incident is likely to spark renewed discussions about fire safety measures in residential buildings and the importance of regular safety checks.
Local councillor Melissa Tan expressed her condolences to the victim’s family and praised the quick response of emergency services. “This is a devastating loss for our community,” she stated. “We will be offering support to those affected and working closely with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all residents.”
The Choa Chu Kang Town Council has announced that it will be conducting additional fire safety briefings for residents in the coming weeks, emphasising the importance of fire prevention and emergency preparedness.
