Pollution risks from burning of incense sticks

I am concerned over the pollution and fire hazards caused by intensive burning of incense sticks and papers by the Chinese community here in Singapore.

I recall an incident that happened in my neighbourhood during the early morning of Feb 26.

There was a fire in a nearby shophouse caused by the sparks and leftovers of the burning items along the walkway.

This fire was caused in the wee hours of the morning and so by the time any action was taken, enough damage was done to the property and goods in the shop. I believe this is not an isolated incident.

Singapore has always preached keeping the country clean and green. Even the smallest offence of littering or spitting in public carries a fine and there are signs to remind the public to refrain from littering and maintain a clean neighbourhood.

While so much attention is given to small offences, I fail to understand why nothing is being done about those who break the law by polluting the air, causing damage to public property (cement walkways, drains, green fields) and subjecting the rest of the public to dangers and fire injuries.

What steps have been taken to educate the Chinese community on carrying out the ritual safely and what facilities have been made for them to carry out their prayers without posing dangers and polluting and damaging the environment?

M. Kokela (Ms)