Shoppers at Paya Lebar Quarter Mall temporarily trapped after fire alarm
A shopper was left shaken after a false fire alarm at Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) Mall caused automatic shutters to come down, blocking access to exits and escalators.
Stomper Serene was on the second floor of the mall when she heard a fire alarm go off at 7.06pm.
"Immediately, the automatic blind shutters descended, blocking access to the escalators and exits," she recalled.
"This caused confusion and concern among shoppers, as we were unable to go to the ground floor.
"Some individuals unsuccessfully attempted to exit the building through the main entrances, as the shutters at the entrances were automatically shut."
Serene said there were no clear instructions or guidance from mall staff at the time.
She eventually left safely using the emergency staircase but described the experience as "alarming".
"I used the emergency staircase to exit the building," she said.
"While I eventually left safely, I found the mall's emergency response system alarming."
She believes the automatic closure of shutters without visible escape alternatives posed a serious safety risk.
"It could have led to panic or injury," Serene commented.
"In my opinion, the system in place does not prioritise safe and accessible evacuation for shoppers during an emergency."
Following a Stomp query, a spokesperson from PLQ Mall said the following:
"At approximately 7.06pm, the building fire alarm was activated and originated from a smoke detector triggered by a basement two kiosk tenant.
"In line with safety protocols, the activation led to a controlled descent of smoke and fire curtains - a critical part of our fire protection system designed to preserve life and contain potential hazards.
"Our operations team responded immediately by inspecting the main and sub alarm panels, as well as the affected site, to confirm the nature of the alarm. It was swiftly verified to be a false alarm.
"Within minutes, all related systems including lifts, fire alarm panels, doors and curtains were reset and normalised. The public address and announcements were played to keep patrons informed and reassured.
"We fully understand the inconvenience this may have caused, particularly during the weekend dinner peak.
"However, the temporary access closure resulting from the curtain deployment is part of a life-safety system that has been rigorously designed and reviewed by Qualified Persons and Fire Engineers and approved by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).
"We regret the disruption caused and will be enforcing our house rules with the said tenant."
