A late-night fire broke out at Block 31 Chai Chee Avenue, leading to four people being taken to hospital and around 50 residents having to evacuate their homes as a precaution.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said it was alerted to the blaze at about 11.05pm on Friday (5 September). Firefighters arrived to find the living room of a flat on the eighth floor engulfed in flames. The unit was empty at the time.
SCDF officers quickly put out the fire using a water jet. Thick smoke, however, spread to nearby units, affecting both residents and emergency responders.
Smoke Inhalation Cases and Hospitalisation
Three residents from neighbouring flats were assessed for smoke inhalation. Two were taken to Changi General Hospital, while another was conveyed to Singapore General Hospital (SGH).
In addition, one firefighter was also sent to SGH for treatment after suffering from smoke inhalation during the operation.
Police and SCDF officers evacuated around 50 residents from the block to ensure safety. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
Support for Residents After the Blaze
East Coast GRC MP Tan Kiat How said grassroots volunteers and town council staff were on-site to assist affected households. Seniors and residents with mobility issues were given additional support, while refreshments were provided at the Residents’ Network centre.
Electricity and water supply to the affected units were promptly restored, and a clean-up of common spaces has already begun. Mr Tan added that flats with serious fire damage will receive temporary housing arrangements, while the building façade will be repainted once recovery works are complete.
This incident serves as another reminder of the importance of fire safety in HDB estates, especially in high-density areas where a single blaze can impact dozens of families. Residents are encouraged to ensure that their homes are equipped with functioning smoke detectors and to familiarise themselves with evacuation procedures.