Why Every Home Should Have a Fire Extinguisher

Fire safety is something many homeowners don’t think about until it’s too late. Yet, fires can start in seconds and spread even faster, turning what could have been a minor accident into a devastating disaster.

One of the simplest, most effective tools to prevent this? A fire extinguisher.

Whether you live in an HDB flat, condominium, or landed property, having at least one fire extinguisher in your home is essential for protecting your family, belongings, and peace of mind. Here’s why:

1. Fires in Singaporean Homes Are More Common Than You Think

According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), there were 968 residential fire calls in 2024, with unattended cooking (35%) and electrical origin (31%) being the top two causes. These are common, everyday scenarios:

• You leave a pot boiling on the stove and get distracted.

• You plug too many devices into an overloaded socket.

• Your charging device or appliance overheats.

These are not rare events. They are normal household activities that can quickly turn into fire hazards.

2. A Fire Extinguisher Buys You Time

Fire extinguishers are designed to stop a fire in its early stages before it grows out of control. Whether it’s a kitchen blaze or an electrical short circuit, being able to respond within seconds can save lives and property.

In fact, many fires can be extinguished in under a minute if caught early with a proper extinguisher.

3. Protect What Matters Most: Your Family

Home fires can quickly turn deadly, especially during the night. Having an extinguisher within easy reach gives you the power to act immediately.

Imagine this: A small fire breaks out while you’re cooking dinner. Without an extinguisher, you are only left with water (which may not work, especially for oil or electrical fires) or waiting for help. With an extinguisher, you can put it out instantly and prevent anyone from getting hurt.

4. Prevent Expensive Property Damage

A house fire can destroy thousands of dollars’ worth of belongings within minutes. Even if you have insurance, the emotional loss of irreplaceable items like family photos or heirlooms can’t be recovered.

Fire extinguishers cost a fraction of the damage a fire could cause, making them a wise investment for any household.

5. Easy to Use with the PASS Method

You don’t need special training to use a fire extinguisher. Just remember the P.A.S.S. method:

• Pull the pin

• Aim at the base of the fire

• Squeeze the handle

• Sweep side to side

With basic knowledge and a bit of practice, you’ll be confident enough to handle small fires safely.

6. Perfect for Singaporean Households

Given Singapore’s dense living environment, fire safety becomes even more crucial. Fires can spread quickly from one unit to another, affecting not only your home but your neighbours’ as well.

Having extinguishers in key locations (kitchen, living room, near circuit breakers) ensures you’re prepared no matter where a fire might start.

7. They’re Compact, Affordable & Low Maintenance

Modern fire extinguishers are:

• Lightweight & compact

• Cost-effective

• Low-maintenance – just an annual inspection or basic servicing

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Fire extinguishers are not just for commercial kitchens or industrial spaces — they belong in every home. Fires do not give warnings. The best time to prepare is before the emergency happens.

Ready to Equip Your Home?

Zion Safety Solutions offers:

• Certified, SCDF-compliant fire extinguishers

• Home installation and training

• Direct WhatsApp support for fast assistance

👉 Chat with us on Whatsapp to find the right solution for your safety needs.