HDB fire involved PMD battery bought from online second-hand source, not authorised retailer: LTA
A recent fire in a Housing Board estate involved a personal mobility device (PMD) battery bought from an online second-hand source instead of an authorised retailer.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) revealed this in a social media post on Sept 16.
The most recent reported fire involving a mobility device was at Block 63 Lorong 5 Toa Payoh on the morning of Aug 22. Three people were taken to the hospital.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force said preliminary findings indicate that the fire had involved a personal mobility aid in the living room.
LTA highlighted that non-compliant mobility devices pose severe fire risks.
Over 600 such devices were seized between January and August.
"During this period, we caught seven retailers for offences related to the sale of non-compliant devices," added LTA in the post.
On Sept 15, LTA caught one more errant retailer and seized 11 non-compliant devices in Aljunied, posted Minister of State for Transport Baey Yam Keng on social media on Sept 16.
"Because these illegal devices can be dangerous," said Mr Baey, explaining why it matters.
"There has already been 37 mobility device-related fires this year, some of them fatal. These aren't just statistics - they're real risks to our neighbourhoods, so it is important to curb the sales and use of illegal devices."
Those caught selling non-compliant devices may face up to $40,000 fine, 24 months' jail or both.
LTA advised: "For your safety, only purchase devices and components from reputable sources and always check for defects and modifications when purchasing second-hand devices or components."
See something interesting? Contribute your story to us.
