Significant Fire Disrupts Local Residents and Highlights Safety Concerns in Older Housing Blocks

The fire incident caused considerable distress beyond just those living in the two directly impacted units, leading to chaos throughout the entire block. Jeffrey Foo, a 79-year-old retiree residing on the 15th floor, recounted how thick black smoke began infiltrating his home, prompting him and several neighbors to escape up to the 24th floor in search of safety. Residing there, one homeowner graciously opened his door to accommodate those trapped inside, fostering a tense yet hopeful atmosphere as they prayed the flames would not advance any further. According to Mr. Foo, the scene was harrowing, with many of his neighbors visibly shaken and in tears due to the overwhelming fumes.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) managed to extinguish the fire after it raged for over an hour, successfully guiding residents down to safety around 2:30 pm. One woman expressed her concerns for her elderly father, who lived opposite Ms. Chan's flat; despite his unit being unharmed, she worried about the potential smoke inhalation. Thankfully, SCDF personnel were able to evacuate him without any injuries. However, residents on the 10th and 11th floors faced ongoing challenges, as their electricity remained disconnected and was not anticipated to be restored until after August 4.

Water damage was evident in a unit situated on the ninth floor, directly beneath where the fire originated, with water seeping from the ceiling while distressed residents chose not to comment to reporters. Another resident living on the 13th floor voiced his frustrations about the insufficient evacuation protocols, particularly since the building is an older design featuring only a single staircase. He shared memories of a fire from 20 years prior that led to requests for an additional staircase, which the authorities never fulfilled. He noted that many residents located above the fire site were trapped and had to retreat upstairs to escape the danger.

Local MP Saktiandi Supaat acknowledged these safety concerns during a conversation with reporters, indicating he has conveyed resident feedback to the Housing and Development Board (HDB), the town council, and SCDF. To address immediate needs, affected families have been temporarily relocated by HDB to nearby units while awaiting repairs on their homes. Furthermore, community efforts have mobilized to provide interim housing for those whose units suffered severe damage.

In a Facebook update, Mr. Saktiandi mentioned that essential items, including mattresses, daily necessities, and bottled water, have been distributed via the Toa Payoh East Community Development and Welfare Fund and local partners. Donations of clothing from self-help groups have also been made to support the impacted residents. A community WhatsApp channel has been established to keep all residents informed about the progress on repair works for the building.