Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Number of Fire Incidents in Residential Premises Involving Active Mobility Devices in the First Half of 2024

Question:

Mr Derrick Goh: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs (a) how many fire incidents in residential premises involving active mobility devices (AMDs) are reported in the first half of 2024; (b) whether an increasing trend of such cases is observed over the past five years; and (c) whether additional measures are being considered against errant consumers and retailers of non-compliant AMDs or parts.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law:

1. In the first half of 2024, there were 17 fire incidents in residential premises involving active mobility devices (AMDs).

2. The annual number of AMD fire incidents in residential premises has decreased from 78 incidents in 2019 to 31 and 35 in 2022 and 2023 respectively.

3. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) adopts a firm stance towards the import, sale, and use of non-compliant AMDs. Since June 2021, businesses and individuals must obtain LTA’s approval to import Power-Assisted Bicycles (PABs) and motorised Personal Mobility Device (PMDs) into Singapore. These devices must meet the prescribed technical and safety requirements before they can be used on our public paths and roads.

4. The LTA also conducts enforcement operations against non-compliant AMD users as well as errant retailers. Between 2020 and 2023, LTA detected around 5,100 offences involving non-compliant AMD devices on paths and roads and about 100 violations by retailers. Non-compliant devices are immediately seized and enforcement action taken.

5. For first-time offenders, the maximum penalty for using a non-compliant device on a public path is a fine up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months or both. As for retailers, the maximum penalty for displaying a non-compliant device for sale is a fine of

up to $20,000 and the maximum penalty for individuals illegally modifying a device is a fine of up to $20,000 or imprisonment for up to 24 months or both.

6. The Active Mobility Fire Safety Taskforce, co-chaired by LTA and the Singapore Civil Defence Force, will continue its public education efforts on the dangers of using non-compliant devices, proper usage and safety tips, as well as how to dispose of motorised AMDs in a safe and responsible manner.