A fire broke out in an HDB unit at Block 34 Jalan Bahagia, Whampoa, on the night of 9 August, prompting the evacuation of about 50 residents from the building. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said in a Facebook post that they were alerted to the incident at around 9.30pm. Upon arrival, firefighters found one of the bedrooms in a sixth-floor unit ablaze. The flat was empty at the time.
The unit was heavily filled with smoke, and firefighters swiftly entered with breathing apparatus to battle the flames. Using a water jet, the fire was brought under control. While the fire was contained to the bedroom, the rest of the flat suffered heat and smoke damage.
Preliminary investigations point to electrical origin
Initial findings suggest the fire likely started from an electrical source in the affected bedroom. SCDF and the police evacuated residents from the block as a precautionary measure, ensuring their safety while operations were ongoing.
Residents gathered at the foot of the block as firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze and ventilate the smoke-filled areas. Several expressed relief that no one was hurt, though some worried about the impact on the affected household.
Electrical safety remains a concern in high-density housing estates like Whampoa. Authorities have often reminded the public to check appliances regularly, avoid overloading power sockets, and unplug unused devices to minimise fire risk.
Swift emergency response praised
The coordinated effort between SCDF, police, and residents ensured the evacuation was carried out smoothly. The prompt firefighting operation also prevented the blaze from spreading to neighbouring flats.
Investigations into the cause are ongoing, but this incident serves as a reminder for all homeowners to prioritise fire safety, especially in older estates where electrical wiring may be aged or worn.