Replies Fires • Safety standards in Singapore necessarily stringent

We thank Forum writers Sarah Lee-Wong Mayfern, Ameerali Abdeali, Valentane Huang and Goh Ee Kiat for their letters "Time for thorough review of fire safety in buildings like older shophouses" (April 10), "Urgent need to step up fire prevention measures" (April 11), "Staff of pre-school near River Valley fire were quick to help" (April 11), and "Fire safety a personal responsibility, not just that of the authorities" (April 11).

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The fire safety standards that we set in Singapore are necessarily stringent. All new buildings and buildings undergoing renovation works must comply with the prevailing Fire Code. These include fire safety provisions such as fire extinguishers, hose reels, emergency lightings, and maximum distance to exit staircases. In addition, exit staircases must be protected within fire-rated enclosures to support safe evacuation during a fire.

The Fire Code is reviewed regularly in consultation with industry stakeholders and agencies such as the Urban Redevelopment Authority and the Building and Construction Authority.