PUBLISHED ONApril 02, 2026 3:20 AMBYKhoo Yi-HangMultiple fires took place at closed cemeteries in Bukit Brown since the start of Qing Ming, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said in a Facebook post on Thursday (April 2).
The cause of these fires was likely caused by unattended joss stick or joss paper burning, exacerbated by dry vegetation, hot weather and strong winds.
On top of damage to the environment, these fires pose a safety hazard to visitors, NEA stressed.
In photographs uploaded with the post, fires can be seen amid shrubbery, with the grounds covered in white ash. One photo also shows a tombstone surrounded with ashes and smoke.
NEA advised visitors not to leave burning joss papers unattended or leave litter or joss paper scattered in the area.
"Do not burn joss paper on the ground and in large quantities to minimise fly ash and smoke," NEA added, also requesting worshippers to not leave food offerings on the ground after prayers as this would attract pests.
"Let's make this Qing Ming period a meaningful and safe experience for everyone by adopting responsible burning practices when offering prayers," NEA stated.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) also put out an advisory ahead of Qing Ming, urging the public to use burners and not to place joss sticks or candles on grass.
In a Facebook post on Monday (March 30), the SCDF said that religious activities such as the burning of incense paper and joss sticks are expected to increase.
Aside from the responsible placement of joss sticks and candles, the SCDF stated that burners should be placed on sturdy ground, at a safe distance from combustible material and residential premises.
Smouldering embers should also be completely extinguished before worshippers leave the area, SCDF said.
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khooyihang@asiaone.com