You know how people say it’s better to be safe than sorry? There’s a good reason for that. We’re seeing a scary amount of HDB fires happening all around Singapore, with the lastest one completely engulfing a unit in Toa Payoh. Accidents like these can easily occur in under a minute, and all it takes is a small gas leak or overloaded power point.
If that scares the daylights out of you, take heart in knowing that there are active steps you can take to safeguard your home against fires. Here are 13 life-saving practical tips to help you keep your home and family safe.
1. Choose fire-resistant materials for your curtains and furniture
Here’s a thing or two to know about fabrics and fire: Natural fibres such as cotton and silk are typically more flammable than synthetic fibres which are harder to catch on fire.
While it’s difficult for most materials to be completely fire resistant, one can opt for fabrics that are less flammable such as wool, polyester and nylon and have been treated with fire-retardant chemicals.
Otherwise, minimising the amount of rugs and carpets one has at home might also help to reduce the risk of furniture catching fire.
In the furniture department, it would be smart to choose furniture made of metal, glass, marble, granite and ceramic. These are natural materials that are not flammable and aren’t likely to be “fuel” to any fire that might start.
2. Ensure all doors are fire-rated
Image credit: @prettythings_home
If you’re a HDB dweller, you’re probably familiar with the term “fire-rated door” since HDB specifies that all front doors that are installed have to have such a rating to prevent the spread of fire and smoke to the rest of the house or external corridor.
For maximum safety, go beyond just having your front door fire-rated, and have every door in the house fire-rated. Spending a little extra on that to ensure your loved ones’ safety can make all the difference in the unfortunate event of a fire.
With that in mind, one can also prevent such accidents from happening by taking precautions such as refraining from smoking indoors. Potential fire hazards like cigarettes should be extinguished well and discarded carefully to avoid sparking fires in the communal rubbish chute.
3. Install a smoke or fire detector
Image credit: Birdi
While smoke detectors have been implemented as a mandatory feature in all new HDB homes since 2018, other private homeowners can also choose to install smoke or fire detectors if they do not have one in their own homes.
These devices can help you quickly detect a fire in your home, if there is one. They’re also pretty affordable – you can purchase a functional and durable one from just S$15.90. Top tip: do make sure to maintain and test them every now and then to make sure they’re working!
4. Use power strips and surge protectors
Image credit: CM Regent
It might be stating the obvious, but you’ll be surprised how many homeowners are guilty of overloading their electrical sockets and leaving their electrical appliances running and unattended.
Instead of buying any old multi-purpose plug from the mama shop in your void deck, put in some extra effort to check that the electrical product you’re buying is “surge protected”. This means that your multi-purpose plug limits the amount of electricity travelling to your electronics.
Checking for faulty wires and overloaded power points can prevent them from sparking and creating an electrical fire.
5. Opt for induction cookers in your kitchen Switch off gas stoves when not in use – or just opt for an induction cooker
Induction cookers are a much safer alternative to the traditional gas stove, for a number of reasons. Gas leaks are perhaps the most commonly-known cause of kitchen fires. In an enclosed space like our homes, a simple spark or flame can easily ignite the natural gas that leaks into the air.
Comparatively, induction cookers produce an open flame, which means one runs a greater risk of physical burns when coming close to them. There’s also a greater chance that nearby materials and fabrics might be ignited if they come into contact with the open flames.
Lastly, gas stoves emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde, which are harmful to you and your loved ones if inhaled over prolonged periods of time. On the other hand, induction cookers do not produce such byproducts and do not require as much ventilation.
6. Plan an escape route in your home
Regardless of the type of residence you reside in, plan an escape route and even consider doing mini fire drills in anticipation of an accident. Not only should this plan cover how one can utilise the nearest fire extinguisher, but it should also teach them how to locate the exit staircase.
Remember – do not panic, evacuate everyone from the site if there’s a fire, and call 995. Evacuate from the stairs and not the lift. If your clothes catch fire, follow SCDF’s “Stop, Drop, Roll” steps.
Image credit: Visit Singapore
For HDBs like The Pinnacle @ Duxton that are more than 40 storeys tall, residents who reside in higher floors can make their way to the “refuge floor” which is a safe holding area between floors.
On top of that, one can tweak their home’s layout by opting for a more open-concept design. By arranging furnishing and partitions so that access to the escape routes are not obstructed, it will ensure that one can easily and safely exit their home during an emergency.
7. Declutter your home – both inside and outside
Image credit: @randomcheryl
It isn’t news that the local authorities are strict with their enforcement of corridor clutter – with good reason. Clutter makes it easier for fire to spread and is also a major obstacle to fire escape routes and staircases. As a result, Clutter might help a fire to spread and might even hinder the escape of neighbours and SCDF personnel in the event of a fire.
It is also strongly advised for HDB residents to refrain from arranging too many potted plants and personal belongings at their doorstep, as the walkways are often very compact and cramped. Dried or withered plants are also especially flammable.
8. Keep chemicals and other combustible substances out of direct sunlight
It’s pretty tempting to leave that can of paint or nail polish remover near the window for some “natural light”, but here’s the thing: that’s exactly how some fires start.
Keep all flammable stuff in a cool, dry spot, just preferably not by the windows. We’re talking oil paints, nail polish remover, hand sanitiser, and aerosols—things we definitely don’t want catching fire unexpectedly.
9. Purchase a home fire extinguisher and add a fire blanket in the kitchen
Image credit: @fireguardsg
Yes, fire extinguishers are available in every other HDB block’s lift lobby, but when a fire breaks out, you definitely don’t want to be waiting for the lift to go grab one. Fires can escalate quickly, and every second counts. It’s better to have a fire extinguisher ready at home so you can act immediately if needed. Being prepared is always the safer option.
You can easily purchase a 1KG portable fire extinguisher from trusted suppliers for just S$33.15, or find even more affordable options on Shopee starting from S$14.90. There are also smaller, budget-friendly fire extinguishers available if you’re looking to keep things simple and safe at home.
SCDF has been actively promoting fire safety and literacy among residents, including how to properly use fire extinguishers, through initiatives like the Community Emergency Preparedness Programme and Community Resilience Days. Even a quick search on YouTube can show you how to easily operate a fire extinguisher in case of a fire. It’s a simple skill that can make all the difference when it counts.
Image credit: @fireguardsg
Having a fire blanket in your kitchen is another smart move. Made from flame-retardant materials, it can be used in two ways: wrap it around you to escape safely or throw it over a small fire to smother it before it spreads.
You can grab a fire blanket for just $39, or find more affordable options on Shopee starting from $15.33. There are different fire-retardant materials available, so you can pick one that suits your needs.
And hey, no one’s stopping you from getting both a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket. If you’re feeling a little extra kiasu, it just means you’ll rest easier knowing you’re fully prepared in case of a fire.
10. Seal gaps around doors, windows & pipes with fire-retardant sealants or firestop foam
Image credit: 3M
Imagine you’re cooking dinner, and suddenly, a small flame breaks out in the kitchen. You panic, but that’s where flame-retardant seals come in. When exposed to heat, these seals expand and form a barrier that blocks fire and smoke from moving through gaps. This gives you precious time to get to safety or for firefighters to respond.
Not only that, but these seals also help contain the fire within a specific room or area, stopping flames and smoke from spreading to escape routes, which is a total lifesaver in an emergency.
Beyond fire protection, sealing those gaps doesn’t just protect you from fire. It also helps with insulation, keeping your home cooler and reducing air leaks, which can help lower your cooling bills in Singapore’s sweltering heat.
11. Clean Range Hoods & Vents Regularly
You know that greasy buildup that gathers on your range hood and exhaust fans? It’s more than just unsightly—it’s also highly flammable. When vents get clogged with grease, they trap heat, raising the risk of overheating or even a kitchen fire.
Regularly cleaning your filters and fans ensures your range hood runs more efficiently and lasts longer. It also reduces the chances of mechanical failure or electrical sparks that could lead to bigger problems.
On top of that, clearing out the residue helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh and free from smoke particles, cooking odours, and airborne pollutants. This is especially important if your kitchen is near your service yard—no one wants to step out of the house smelling like fried eggs. Strong cooking smells tend to cling to fabric, and trust us, you’ll be much happier if you don’t have to deal with that after a meal.
12. Schedule Electrical System Inspections
Image credit: Lito Electrical Service
Faulty or neglected appliances can overheat and lead to electrical fires when you least expect it. That’s why scheduling annual electrical inspections is crucial—especially if you’re living in an older flat where wiring might not be up to modern standards.
It’s also good practice to check your wiring regularly. Keep an eye out for frayed cords or overloaded sockets, and replace any damaged wires as soon as possible. For high-wattage appliances like irons, kettles, and toasters, make it a habit to unplug them when you’re done. It’s a small step that can greatly reduce potential risks.
And let’s not forget—dust buildup in appliances like fans and air conditioners can become a fire hazard over time. So, give your appliances a quick dust-off now and then. It’s an easy way to prevent trouble down the road.
13. Store Flammable Liquids Properly
Image credit: Simply Organized
Properly storing flammable substances might seem like a small thing, but it can make all the difference in keeping your home safe—especially if you live in a compact space with limited ventilation.
By following proper storage practices, you’re not only being proactive about safety, but you’re also aligning with SCDF fire code requirements, which is especially important for HDB and condo dwellers. When sealed and stored properly, things like paint thinners, cleaning agents, and aerosol sprays are less likely to release vapours that could cause a flash fire.
Always store these items upright and securely to avoid leaks or spills, which can ignite when exposed to heat. Since these substances can act as fire accelerants, it’s a good idea to only keep what you need on hand. For extra peace of mind, use fire-resistant containers to minimise risk, just in case a fire does occur.
Keep your home fireproof with these life-saving tips
As you can see, fireproofing your home can be as simple as making small changes to your daily habits and practices. Other than taking the necessary steps to prevent such incidents, one can opt to get insurance to cover any damages or losses due to a fire. Finally, during emergencies, dial 995 for ambulance and rescue.
Check out the following for more home and living tips:
- How to pet-proof your HDB
- 7 design tips to improve your kitchen’s Feng Shui
- 7 tips for renting in Singapore
Cover image adapted from : Birdi
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