On June 19, 2025, a residential fire broke out in a high-floor unit of Block 5, Holland Close, Singapore. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) responded promptly to the emergency, which was reported at around 7:25pm. The fire originated from one of the bedrooms in a unit on the 23rd floor and resulted in four individuals being hospitalised.
Firefighters from Alexandra Fire Station were dispatched to the scene and extinguished the fire using two water jets. Although the fire was contained within the bedroom, the rest of the flat sustained considerable damage from both heat and smoke.
Two residents, who had already self-evacuated from the unit before SCDF’s arrival, were assessed on site and later conveyed to Singapore General Hospital (SGH) for treatment of smoke inhalation.
During firefighting operations, two SCDF personnel experienced heat exhaustion. One was transported to SGH, while the other was taken to National University Hospital (NUH). Both firefighters were conscious during conveyance.
A nearby resident, Mr Winston Ho, aged 50, reported that he was returning home at approximately 7:20pm when he saw smoke pouring from the affected unit. He also observed fire engines arriving at the scene. As glass fragments began falling from the higher floor, police officers on site quickly established a safety cordon and initiated evacuation procedures.
Residents of the block were directed to a nearby futsal court for safety, where a roll call was conducted to account for all individuals. Approximately 100 residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure during the incident.
The SCDF stated that the fire was fully extinguished and the situation was under control within a short period. However, the cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation.
Emergency teams remained on-site after the fire was extinguished to conduct safety assessments and monitor for potential flare-ups. Police and SCDF personnel continued managing the cordoned area to prevent further injury due to falling debris or residual smoke hazards.
This incident highlights the risks associated with high-rise fires and the importance of having effective evacuation procedures in densely populated residential blocks. SCDF reiterated their standard safety protocols and reminded the public to call 995 immediately upon discovering fire or smoke, and to evacuate affected units without delay.
The incident also underlines the physical toll such emergencies can take on first responders. Both firefighters were treated for heat-related exhaustion, a risk common in high-rise firefighting scenarios due to intense temperatures and physical exertion.
As of June 19, 2025, investigations into the exact cause of the fire are ongoing. No further injuries were reported among the other residents or emergency personnel.
The SCDF also reminded the public that emergency preparedness and fire safety awareness remain essential in reducing injury and damage in future incidents. Community cooperation during evacuations and emergency drills can significantly impact the effectiveness of emergency response efforts.
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