Residents at a Punggol HDB block were left shaken after two separate fires broke out within less than an hour on the evening of May 1 at Block 223A Sumang Lane. The incidents triggered emergency evacuations, hospitalisations for smoke inhalation, and significant property damage in one of the affected units.
According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force, firefighters were first alerted to a blaze along the ninth-floor common corridor at around 6:50pm. A second fire was then reported at approximately 7:40pm in a fourth-floor unit within the same block.
Emergency responders managed to extinguish both fires using hose reels, but the second blaze caused extensive destruction to the affected home. Videos circulating online showed flames raging from the unit while SCDF officers battled thick smoke from the corridor.
Authorities confirmed that four individuals suffered smoke inhalation and were taken to hospital for medical assessment. Two firefighters who felt unwell during the operation were also conveyed to hospital as a precaution before later being discharged.
Residents Helped Before Firefighters Arrived
The first fire reportedly involved discarded items placed along the common corridor on the ninth floor. Investigations into the exact cause are still ongoing, though no injuries were reported from that incident.
A witness said several residents stepped in before emergency crews arrived, helping to put out parts of the fire and evacuating neighbours from nearby units. While they were later speaking with authorities, another commotion erupted after screams alerted residents to the second fire downstairs.
The second blaze proved far more serious. Exterior walls surrounding the affected fourth-floor unit were visibly blackened, while the interior was left heavily charred by the flames.
Father Suspects Young Son May Have Accidentally Started Fire
The homeowner, identified only by his surname Si, told Chinese media that he believes his six-year-old son may have accidentally started the fire while playing with a lighter, reported ZaoBao.
At the time of the incident, the family had reportedly been resting at home. Si explained that he, his wife, and one of their children were asleep, while the six-year-old was the only person awake.
He suspected the child may have accidentally ignited tissue paper, with the flames quickly spreading to diapers and a mattress inside the bedroom. His wife reportedly noticed the fire first and woke the family as thick smoke rapidly filled the flat.
During the chaotic escape, Si said he heard a bedroom window shatter from the heat. Much of the family’s belongings, including furniture, clothing, and mattresses, were destroyed in the blaze.
The emotional incident has once again highlighted the importance of home fire safety, especially in households with young children. Items such as lighters and matches can become dangerous fire hazards if left unattended.
Temporary Housing Arranged For Affected Family
Following the incident, authorities arranged temporary accommodation for the displaced family while investigations continue.
Reports also indicated that approximately 30 residents from the block were evacuated during the emergency operation as a safety measure.
The case serves as a stark reminder for homeowners to remain vigilant about fire risks inside HDB flats, particularly with combustible household items and unattended ignition sources. Families are also encouraged to review home insurance coverage and fire protection measures to minimise financial losses in similar emergencies.