Number of HDB Flat Fires and Plans for a Comprehensive National Educational Emergency Preparedness Campaign

Question:

Ms Joan Pereira: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether there is a rise in the number of fire incidents in HDB flats; and (b) if so, whether the Singapore Civil Defence Force will consider embarking on a comprehensive nation-wide educational and emergency preparedness campaign, including evacuation drills, to ensure that all residents are equipped with knowledge on what to do during a fire or emergencies.

Answer:

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

1. The number of fires in Housing and Development Board estates has generally been on a decline in the last five years, from 939 in 2020 to 803 in 2024.

2. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) conducts regular outreach to equip residents with the capabilities to deal with fires. Through the SCDF’s Responders Plus Programme, residents are offered free hands-on training on the use of fire extinguishers, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillators. These emergency preparedness skills are also publicised as part of the SGSecure national movement. In addition, the SCDF and the People Association Community Emergency and Engagement Committees continue to regularly conduct block evacuation exercises.