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SINGAPORE : One hundred and eighty-three notices have so far been issued to commercial establishments that violated fire safety rules this year. That is 50 per cent more than the same period last year.
The number of repeat offenders has also gone up - nine, compared to three in 2008.
Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) officers have conducted 600 checks in the first 10 months this year, compared to 598 the same period in 2008.
Blocked fire exits and obstructions to the passageway are just some of the hidden dangers SCDF officers are on the lookout for during spot checks.
Popular shopping centre Mustafa got three minor violations. It had been fined in previous years for flouting safety rules, including overcrowding. Since then, it has installed sensors to ensure that the numbers in the building do not exceed SCDF guidelines.
Such sensors are also installed at Suntec Convention Centre, which regularly sees huge crowds.
Hotels and karaoke bars were also checked by officers on Friday evening.
Police officers were also on the look out for vice activities.
Surprise checks are carried out throughout the year, but with the festive season just around the corner, SCDF officers have increased the number of operations to make sure that merrymaking does not end in tragedy.
CPT Cathay Teo, Fire Safety and Shelter Enforcement, Singapore Civil Defence Force, said: "Overcrowding in building premises, especially public entertainment outlets such as discotheques and pubs, should be avoided because during an emergency, a stampede might occur." - CNA/ms
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