NSF firefighter dies after falling unconscious while battling blaze at Henderson Road flat
The SCDF firefighter was part of the first response crew at the scene of the fire.
A photo showing a damaged corridor, after a fire broke out at a unit at Blk 91 Henderson Road on Dec 8, 2022. (Photo: Facebook/Our Tanjong Pagar)
SINGAPORE: A 19-year-old firefighter who was a full-time national serviceman (NSF) died on Thursday (Dec 8) after he fell unconscious while battling a blaze at a Henderson Road Housing Board flat.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said it was called to the fire at 91 Henderson Road at about 11.10am.
A fourth-floor flat was on fire and smoke filled the corridor.
SCDF said firefighters had to force their way in. Wearing breathing apparatus, they pushed through the smoke-logged unit with two water jets.
During the firefighting operation, the NSF fell unconscious in the kitchen area. He was immediately taken out of the unit and given cardiopulmonary resuscitation, said SCDF.
An ambulance crew at the scene also used an automated external defibrillator on him and took him to Singapore General Hospital.
He was pronounced dead at the hospital, said SCDF.
"SCDF and his teammates are very saddened by his death, and extend our deepest condolences to his family," said the agency.
"The NSF firefighter was part of the first response crew for this fire incident and was bravely carrying out his mission of protecting and saving lives and property."
SCDF said it is providing assistance and support to his family, adding that investigations are ongoing.
In response to CNA's queries, the Singapore Police Force said five other people aged between 8 and 25 were sent to the hospital in connection with the fire.
In a Facebook post at about 6.30pm, Member of Parliament for the area Joan Pereira said that some residents of the block had been allowed to return to their flats, but others were still waiting as damping down operations continued.
She added that authorities will assist the affected households, including by providing them with temporary shelter if needed.
On Facebook, Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam wrote that his ministry will assist the victim's family during this difficult time.
"Home Team officers work tirelessly and bravely every day to keep our homes and Singaporeans safe.
"We do our best to protect our officers, but the nature of the work means that there will always be risks," he said, adding: "My deepest condolences to his family."
