A Boon Lay Drive household previously warned for charging personal mobility devices (PMDs) in a common corridor has relocated the items to the void deck, according to reports from June 9. The West Coast-Jurong West Town Council confirmed on June 11 that it is aware of the devices at the ground-floor location and is coordinating with the Land Transport Authority on enforcement.
The West Coast-Jurong West Town Council issued its latest warning to the specific unit involved on March 10, following prior efforts to actively engage the residents regarding the storage and charging of their devices.
Why fire safety risks persist
The movement of PMDs from residential corridors to the void deck does not eliminate the fire risks associated with the devices, according to the West Coast-Jurong West Town Council. The council maintains that residents should store and charge their devices only within their own homes, citing the serious fire safety risks posed by overnight charging in public or common areas.
The recurring nature of this situation highlights a common challenge in residential fire safety management. When enforcement efforts move devices from one public space to another, the underlying risk—potential rapid fire spread in confined spaces—remains, necessitating a shift in behavior rather than just a change in location.
What enforcement actions may follow
The West Coast-Jurong West Town Council has issued advisory notices requiring the removal of the PMDs from the void deck. Because the council is coordinating with the Land Transport Authority, further enforcement measures could be taken if the devices are not relocated by the owners. The Singapore Civil Defence Force reported 49 fires involving active mobility devices in 2025, emphasizing the danger of these incidents in residential premises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the PMDs currently being stored?
The devices have been moved to the void deck of the HDB block at Boon Lay Drive, according to photographic evidence from June 9.
What is the town council doing about the situation?
The West Coast-Jurong West Town Council has issued advisory notices for the removal of the devices and is currently coordinating with the Land Transport Authority regarding enforcement.
Why is the SCDF concerned about these devices?
The SCDF noted that it responded to 49 fires involving active mobility devices in 2025, noting that such fires are particularly dangerous in residential settings due to rapid fire spread.
How should communal living spaces be balanced with the individual use of mobility devices?