On January 13, a fire broke out in a Telok Blangah flat, triggering a swift response from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). The incident, which started in the kitchen of an eighth-floor unit at Block 44 Telok Blangah Drive, led to the evacuation of about 60 residents. Two individuals were subsequently taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation, according to a report by The New Paper.
Timely SCDF Action
At approximately 3:40 pm, the SCDF received an alert about the fire and promptly dispatched firefighting teams to the location. The fire, which posed an immediate threat to residents, was successfully extinguished within five minutes by SCDF personnel utilizing a water jet.
Evacuation Efforts
In collaboration with the police, the SCDF carried out the evacuation of around 60 residents from adjacent units. Among those evacuated were elderly individuals, some of whom required assistance due to being in wheelchairs. The residents were relocated to the void deck, ensuring their safety while the firefighting operation was underway.
Individuals Affected
Seven people from the unit directly impacted by the fire managed to escape before SCDF’s arrival. However, one resident and a neighboring individual were assessed for smoke inhalation. Both conscious individuals were subsequently transported to the Singapore General Hospital for further medical attention.
Investigation into the Cause
As standard procedure, the SCDF is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Understanding the origin of the incident is crucial for preventing similar occurrences in the future and enhancing overall fire safety measures.
The Telok Blangah fire serves as a reminder of the importance of a rapid and effective response in emergencies. The SCDF’s prompt action not only contained the fire but also safeguarded the lives of residents. Ongoing investigations will shed light on the root cause, contributing to continuous improvements in fire safety protocols. The incident underscores the need for community preparedness and collaboration with emergency services to mitigate the impact of unforeseen events.