The first fire on the 10th floor of Block 4 Marsiling Road resulted in the unfortunate death of a 72-year-old man who was found unconscious in the toilet. Firefighters from the Woodlands Fire Station arrived at the scene and forced their way into the smoke-logged flat. They managed to extinguish the fire using a water jet, but the elderly man had already suffered severe injuries.
Efforts were made by an SCDF firefighter to resuscitate the man with cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the ambulance crew took over with an automated external defibrillator. Despite their efforts, the man passed away in the hospital.
Just hours later, a second fire broke out in the same estate, this time near Block 3. The fire involved the contents of a living room in a unit on the ninth floor, but it was extinguished before the firefighters arrived. Ten people were evacuated from the block as a precautionary measure.
Member of Parliament for Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC Zaqy Mohamad posted on Facebook about the fires, expressing his condolences for the victim and his relief that no one was injured in the second fire. He also reminded residents to take precautions and ensure that their homes are safe from fire hazards.
The cause of both fires is still under investigation, and it is unclear whether they are related. However, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need to take precautions to prevent fires from occurring. The SCDF encourages all residents to install smoke detectors in their homes, ensure that electrical appliances are in good working order, and avoid leaving candles or cigarettes unattended.
In addition to these precautions, it is also essential to have a fire escape plan in place and ensure that all family members are familiar with it. This plan should include identifying multiple escape routes, designating a meeting point outside the building, and practicing the plan regularly.
The authorities are currently investigating both fires to determine their causes and prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. In the meantime, residents of Block 4 Marsiling Road and other similar estates are urged to remain vigilant and take fire safety precautions seriously.
The tragic death of the 72-year-old man serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences that fires can have, and the importance of taking every possible measure to prevent them. The SCDF and other relevant authorities will continue to work closely with community leaders and residents to promote fire safety awareness and education.
It is also crucial for family members and loved ones to check on elderly or vulnerable individuals who live alone, to ensure that they are taking the necessary precautions and are not at risk of fire hazards. In the event of a fire, it is essential to remain calm, alert the authorities immediately, and follow established safety protocols to ensure everyone’s safety.