About 120 people were evacuated from Junction 8 mall in Bishan on Aug 11 after a fire broke out at a Yakiniku Like restaurant. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) extinguished the blaze, which involved a table grill and exhaust ducting on the first floor, using a hose reel. One person was hospitalized for smoke exposure.
SCDF Response and Evacuation at Junction 8
The SCDF received an alert to the fire at 9 Bishan Place at approximately 7.10 p.m. on Aug 11. Police and SCDF personnel evacuated about 120 people as a precaution, including patrons at neighboring eateries.
Reports from The Straits Times indicate that customers and staff from shops up to 40 meters away were cleared from the area. A man seated behind the grill that caught fire told reporters he saw the fire in the vent and ran quickly.
Did You Know? Fire-resistant curtains on the second floor were deployed to block smoke from reaching other levels because the restaurant is located directly beneath two escalators.
Injuries and Safety System Activation
A Junction 8 spokesperson confirmed that an employee from a neighboring tenant was taken to Singapore General Hospital for medical assessment after reporting discomfort from smoke exposure. No other injuries were reported, according to the spokesperson.
The mall’s automated safety measures, including the sprinkler system and fire curtains, activated immediately upon the alert of the small fire on Level 1. The rest of the mall remained open and operated as usual following the incident.
Yakiniku Like Response and Investigation
Yakiniku Like confirmed on Aug 12 that the fire occurred at its Junction 8 outlet. A spokesperson for the restaurant stated they are cooperating with mall management and authorities while the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Junction 8 outlet is temporarily closed for safety inspections and assessments. Yakiniku Like is also conducting additional safety checks across its other outlets as a precaution. The company stated it is conducting a comprehensive review of its existing procedures to strengthen safety practices.
The restaurant was informed on the morning of Aug 12 that a person had been hospitalized and stated it is seeking further information to offer appropriate assistance.
Potential Next Steps
The restaurant may remain closed until safety inspections are completed and approved by authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at Junction 8?
The SCDF stated the fire involved a table grill and exhaust ducting in the dining area of the restaurant; however, the official cause is still under investigation.
How many people were injured in the incident?
One employee from a neighboring tenant was taken to Singapore General Hospital for medical assessment due to smoke exposure. No other injuries were reported.
Is the Junction 8 mall still open?
Yes. While the affected Yakiniku Like restaurant is temporarily closed, a Junction 8 spokesperson confirmed the rest of the mall remains open and operating as usual.
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