Fatal Clementi blaze: Dry rising main not in proper working condition during firefighting operation

SCDF, which is investigating the incident, said the town council is required to rectify the dry rising main to ensure that it is in proper working condition.

In a media reply on Aug 2, the Holland-Bukit Panjang Town Council said its preliminary assessment indicates that the reduction in water pressure from the dry rising main was due to a coupling that secured a segment of the dry rising main becoming dislodged during firefighting operations.

The town council said that in the meantime, it has rectified the coupling securing the segment of the dry rising main.

SCDF tested the system on the morning of Aug 2, said the town council. Further tests will be conducted to ensure that the system is fully operational.

The town council said it will also conduct further checks at other blocks under its management, as a precautionary measure.

The dry rising main at Block 309 Clementi Avenue 4 was last serviced and pressure tested on March 14, and was found to be in order, the town council said. It added that dry rising main systems are serviced every six months and pressure tested annually.

The fire – which involved items in the living room – was put out with two water jets, said SCDF in a Facebook post early on Aug 1. About 40 residents from the affected block were evacuated by the police and the SCDF as a precaution.

The town council said that it is cooperating fully with SCDF’s probe, and will remain “transparent and accountable”.

It added: “We will work closely with SCDF to identify any areas where the maintenance and testing regime for the entire dry rising main and hose reel system, which supplies water for firefighting operations, can be further strengthened.

“We will continue to provide the necessary support to the parties affected by the incident.”

The town council also conveyed its condolences to the resident’s family and loved ones, and wished the injured firefighters a speedy recovery.

One of the firefighters has been discharged from hospital and is resting at home, said SCDF.