Fire breaks out in Ang Mo Kio flat: 2 residents to be lauded for firefighting, evacuation efforts

A fire broke out in a 16th-floor flat at Block 307C Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 on Wednesday morning (Nov 23).

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) told Stomp that it was alerted to the fire, which involved the contents of a living room, at around 8.30am.

Stomper Jane shared a photo of the scene and said the fire broke out in a studio unit.

She told Stomp: "Three fire engines arrived to extinguish the fire. Residents were evacuated safely and no one was injured."

SCDF said it extinguished the fire using a compressed air foam backpack and a water jet, adding: "Two occupants from the affected unit self-evacuated prior to SCDF's arrival.

"An SCDF paramedic assessed one of the occupants for smoke inhalation and the person subsequently refused conveyance to the hospital."

About 20 residents from the affected block were evacuated by the police as a precautionary measure.

SCDF said: "We understand that an occupant from the affected unit had assisted to evacuate a person. Another neighbour had assisted in firefighting and evacuation efforts.

"SCDF will be reaching out to the persons to commend them for their quick-thinking and prompt efforts."

Preliminary investigation indicates that the fire is likely to have been caused by electrical origin in the living room of the affected unit.

Members of the public are advised to adopt these good practices to prevent electrical fires from occurring:

• Do not overload electrical outlets with electrical appliances;

• Always switch off appliances when they are not in use;

• Check the appliance for frayed wires or cracked cords. If observed the appliance should be repaired or replaced. Do not use faulty appliances;

• Do not run wires under carpets or mats and keep wires away from hot surfaces;

• Use appliances and electrical plugs bearing the Safety Mark. The categories of appliances can be found at http://www.consumerproductsafety.gov.sg;

• Do not leave batteries or devices to charge unattended for an extended period of time or overnight.