SINGAPORE: A personal mobility device (PMD) caught fire on Thursday (Dec 5), exactly one month after e-scooters were banned from Singapore’s pathways over safety concerns.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said the fire took place at about 12.45pm outside a 14th floor flat at Block 715 Clementi West Street 2.
The fire, which was sparked by a PMD that was left charging along the common corridor, was extinguished by firefighters with one water jet.
The burnt wreck of a personal mobility device (PMD) that caught fire while it was charging at Block 715 Clementi West Street 2 on Dec 5, 2019. (Photo: Facebook/Singapore Civil Defence Force)
There were no reported injuries, though three occupants from the affected unit had to be evacuated by SCDF.
Last month’s banning of e-scooters from footpaths came amid a rise in safety incidents involving e-scooters or other PMDs.
In July, the government banned the sale of non-UL2272 certified PMDs over fires and other concerns. The UL2272 standard refers to a set of safety requirements which cover the electrical drive train system of PMDs, including the battery system.
READ: 54 fires involving PMDs and power-assisted bicycles reported in first half of 2019
Fire safety tips on preventing PMD fires. (Graphic: Facebook/SCDF)
The authorities have extended the early disposal incentive scheme – where S$100 is given for the disposal of non-UL2272 compliant registered e-scooters – to the end of the year.
“All owners of non-UL2272 certified PMDs are strongly encouraged to dispose of their devices at designated disposal points as soon as possible,” SCDF reminded on Thursday.
