Creating that perfect home may take years of hard work and investment. But if we’re not vigilant about fire prevention and safety, everything that we’ve painstakingly built can go up in flames (literally) in a matter of seconds.
As such, home fire alarm devices and fire extinguishers are extremely valuable tools for fire prevention.
Did you know? From June 2018, smoke or heat detectors are mandatory in all new HDB flats
As always, fire prevention is the best defence. Read on for a list of common fire hazards at home, and what you can do to prevent them:
Personal Mobility Device (PMD)
Avoid charging the battery of your PMD overnight – better yet, don’t charge it without supervision. Also, avoid placing the charging battery near combustible materials such as paper and fabric (think books and curtains).
Before purchasing a PMD, it’s important to ensure that the device is of an LTA-approved model and must be registered with the LTA. This condition is also applicable to second-hand PMDs. Penalties include a $5,000 fine and/or a jail term of up to three months, and are applicable to owners with PMDs that were LTA-approved but later modified.
Kitchen Stoves
It takes just a few minutes for a pot or pan to overheat and catch fire, so avoid leaving cooking unattended. Remember to keep flammable liquids (such as cooking oil) or combustible materials away from the stove as part of fire prevention.
Power Sockets
When power sockets are overloaded, electrical fires can occur. Use them safely and limit your use to the number of sockets that have been provided. Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances when not in use.
Incense Sticks and Candles
Avoid placing lighted incense sticks and candles near curtains or combustible materials, which may catch fire when they are near the open flame.
Cigarette Butts
When there’s smoke, there’s fire. Refrain from throwing lighted cigarette butts into the rubbish chute or bin.
Rest assured knowing that there are several measures in place to protect your flat, including the unfortunate event of a fire – read our guide to home insurance to find out more!
