SCDF steps up fire-safety enforcement checks

SINGAPORE - Officers from the Singapore Civil Defence Force's (SCDF) Enforcement Department conducted fire safety checks at public entertainment outlets and shopping centres at Bugis, Sengkang and Chinatown last night.

The checks were part of SCDF's yearly stepped-up enforcement checks, an SCDF statement today said.

SCDF officers detected fire safety violations such as non-functioning exit lights, obstruction of common passageways and exit doors, and staircases being used as storage areas.

"Such violations would impede the safe evacuation of people during an emergency," the statement said.

SCDF reminded the public that fire safety infringement is an offence under the fire safety act, and contraventions may result in a fine of up to $10,000, 6 months imprisonment, or both.

First time offenders may also be served with Fire Hazard Abatement Notices or Notice of Fire Safety Offence depending on the type and severity of the violations.

SCDF added that its stepped-up enforcement checks will continue throughout the festive season.

seanyap@sph.com.sg