Number of Active Mobility Device-Related Fires in HDB Flats in the Past Three Years

Question:

Mr Yip Hon Weng: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) in the past three years, how many (i) Active Mobility Device (AMD)-related fires occurred in HDB flats; (ii) individuals were penalised for using non-compliant AMDs or batteries; (b) what other proactive measures, such as targeted education, can the Ministry take to prevent such fires; and (c) whether the Ministry intends to expand penalties to deter unsafe charging practices.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs:

1.  Over the last five years, 187 fires (or about 4% of fires in Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates) involved Active Mobility Devices (AMDs). During the same period, Land Transport Authority (LTA) detected more than 6,000 cases of non-compliant AMDs on public paths and roads, and more than 100 violations by retailers.

2. To further encourage AMD owners to use their devices safely and responsibly, the Active Mobility Fire Safety Taskforce, co-chaired by LTA and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), will step up public education under the “Be Device-Safe” programme, on the dangers of using non-compliant devices, and the importance of safe charging. We are also considering tougher enforcement action to send a stronger deterrent signal that the use or sale of non-compliant AMDs poses significant safety risks.