Guard Your Home: SCDF Launches Major Campaign to Combat Rising Residential Fires and PMD Risks

Imagine the unthinkable: a fire erupting in the very place you call home, threatening your loved ones and cherished possessions. This isn't a distant nightmare for many in Singapore; it's a growing concern. Alarmed by a significant surge in residential blazes, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) is launching an intensive, nationwide fire safety campaign, aptly themed 'Guard Your Home', to empower residents with the knowledge and tools to prevent such devastating incidents.

The statistics paint a sobering picture.

In 2023, Singapore witnessed a concerning 20 per cent increase in residential fires compared to the previous year. Even more alarming is the role played by Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) and Power-Assisted Bicycles (PABs), which accounted for nearly 50 per cent more fires in 2023 than in 2022. These aren't just numbers; they represent shattered lives and significant property damage.

Beyond PMDs, other familiar culprits like unattended cooking and electrical faults remain prevalent threats, underscoring the constant need for vigilance.

Recognising the urgency, SCDF's 'Guard Your Home' campaign takes a multi-pronged approach to embed fire safety deeply into the community's consciousness.

A key highlight is the catchy 'Press, Call, Tell' jingle, designed to simplify immediate fire response actions. 'Press' refers to activating a fire extinguisher – a critical first line of defence. 'Call' emphasizes dialling 995 for emergency services without delay. And 'Tell' reminds residents to alert others in the vicinity to ensure everyone's safe evacuation.

This memorable tune aims to make essential actions second nature for everyone.

To amplify its message, SCDF has enlisted popular Mediacorp personality Yaowen as its Fire Safety Ambassador. Yaowen will be prominently featured in campaign materials, using his influence to connect with the public and reinforce crucial fire safety messages.

The campaign will also leverage extensive community outreach, including roadshows across housing estates, engaging social media content, and close collaboration with grassroots organisations. These efforts aim to reach every corner of Singapore, fostering a collective responsibility towards fire prevention.

A core focus of the campaign is educating residents on three critical pillars of home fire safety: the importance of having and maintaining smoke detectors, adopting safe charging practices for PMDs and PABs, and practicing good housekeeping.

Smoke detectors, often overlooked, are literally lifesavers, providing early warning that can be the difference between a minor incident and a major tragedy. SCDF strongly encourages every household to install at least one.

For PMD and PAB users, the guidelines are clear and non-negotiable. Always use original, certified batteries and chargers, and avoid overcharging or leaving devices charging unattended, especially overnight.

Crucially, never charge these devices near escape routes or combustible materials, as rapid fire spread can block exits. Proper disposal of damaged or bulging batteries is also vital, as they pose significant risks. Furthermore, simple acts of good housekeeping, like keeping common corridors clear and not hoarding combustible items, play a massive role in preventing fires and ensuring clear escape paths.

Ultimately, fire safety isn't solely the SCDF's responsibility; it's a shared commitment.

The 'Guard Your Home' campaign serves as a powerful reminder that every individual has a role to play in safeguarding their home and community from the devastating impact of fires. By internalising the 'Press, Call, Tell' message, embracing safe practices, and staying vigilant, Singapore residents can collectively build a safer, more resilient environment for all.