The Macau SAR Government on Thursday appealed to residents and all sectors of society to reinforce fire-prevention awareness, stressing the need to remove hazards as the city enters a season prone to fires. The call came after a catastrophic blaze at Hong Kong’s Tai Po Hong Fuk Court on the afternoon of the 26th, where a five-alarm fire swept through multiple residential towers, leaving at least 44 people dead, 58 injured and 279 unaccounted for as of early Thursday. In response, Macau’s Government Information Bureau issued a reminder urging the community to remain vigilant.
Southern China has experienced persistently dry weather in recent days, heightening fire risk. Autumn and winter traditionally see more incidents, prompting Macau’s departments to reinforce operational readiness during this period.
Following the tragedy in the neighboring region, the government instructed the Fire Services Bureau, Labour Affairs Bureau, Land and Urban Construction Bureau and Municipal Affairs Bureau to step up joint inspections of both ongoing and planned scaffolding projects. The aim is to ensure strict compliance with safety standards. Contractors are required to uphold their fire-prevention duties, manage equipment safely and eliminate any potential dangers identified during site checks.
Residents are encouraged to improve their own preparedness by paying close attention to electrical safety, being mindful of fire risks in everyday activities, and learning evacuation routes at home and in workplaces. The government advised the public to immediately notify property management or relevant departments if any hazards are found.
The government said it will continue stepping up citywide awareness efforts through interdepartmental coordination and community engagement. Strengthening awareness of fire-prevention and emergency-response procedures, the government said, is essential to reducing risks and maintaining a safe and livable urban environment.
