A Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) firefighter was sent to the hospital after feeling unwell while responding to a kitchen fire at an HDB block in Boon Lay on 24 July. The incident, which broke out around 6:20pm, involved a fifth-floor unit at Block 197D Boon Lay Drive and prompted a swift emergency response from SCDF.
Authorities confirmed that the fire was extinguished using a hose reel and water jet. However, during the operation, one firefighter experienced fatigue and was later taken to Ng Teng Fong General Hospital. He has since been discharged with three days of medical leave.
Fifth-Floor Unit Severely Damaged
According to preliminary findings, the fire is believed to have started due to unattended cooking. The incident likely occurred while the domestic helper, who had left a flame on to cook, stepped out to visit a doctor. Fortunately, the couple living in the unit—believed to be in their 60s—were not home at the time.
Eyewitnesses reported heavy smoke billowing from the flat, with a video on social media showing over 20 residents gathered at the foot of the block. Many residents, alarmed by the thick smoke, evacuated from the building as a precaution.
Shin Min Daily News reported significant damage to the affected unit, with visible burn marks in the living room and ceiling. The firefighting operation lasted until approximately 10pm that night.
MP Desmond Lee Visits Affected Residents
Minister for Education and West Coast–Jurong West GRC MP Desmond Lee arrived at the scene at around 8pm to meet with residents and assess the situation. His visit aimed to reassure the community and offer support to those affected.
This incident has once again highlighted the dangers of leaving cooking appliances unattended, especially in densely populated residential areas. In light of the fire, SCDF has issued a reminder urging residents to always monitor cooking and heating appliances and to switch off gas or electrical sources when not in use.
SCDF Urges Vigilance in the Home
While this Boon Lay incident did not result in fatalities, it serves as a strong warning about the risks posed by unattended cooking. Fires remain one of the top household hazards in Singapore, particularly in public housing estates.
To ensure fire safety, SCDF recommends:
- Never leaving cooking or heating equipment unattended.
- Turning off gas or electric stoves when leaving home.
- Installing functional smoke detectors in key areas.
- Keeping fire extinguishers within easy reach in the kitchen.
As Singaporeans continue to live in close quarters in HDB flats, fire prevention remains a communal responsibility. Public awareness and quick response remain key to preventing similar incidents from escalating.