Netizens wish injured firefighter in Buona Vista explosion well, as he recovers on Labour Day

Get well soon!

Olivia Lin | May 01, 2017, 02:35 PM

By now, you should have seen the video of the taxi explosion that happened near Buona Vista MRT Station on April 30.

[video width="368" height="640" mp4="https://static.mothership.sg/1/2017/05/IMG_2762.mp4"][/video]

 

The video went viral on WhatsApp and social media platforms.

In it, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) firefighter can be seen extinguishing the burning taxi when it suddenly exploded, engulfing the man in flames.

It is reported that four people, including the firefighter, were injured.

In a Facebook post by Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam, he mentioned that the injured SCDF officer had first degree burns to his face and neck.

Screenshot via K Shanmugam's Facebook page

At about 8pm on April 30, SCDF announced on its Facebook page that the firefighter has since been discharged from the hospital, and is recuperating.

Many netizens expressed their concern and well wishes following the Facebook post.

Photo via SCDF's Facebook page

Photo via SCDF's Facebook page

Photo via SCDF's Facebook page

Photo via SCDF's Facebook page

It was fortunate that the firefighter's gear played a big role in protecting him from the explosion. Roads.sg gave a breakdown on the materials and equipment that probably saved his life:

1) SCDF uses quality flame-resistant (FR) clothing and this is key to protecting our SCDF from harm and danger. Fire Protection suit comes in multi layers for full body heat protection made from the highest grade aramid material.

2) Helmet made of Kevlar composite materials that can withstand impacts and blows to protect face and head. Comes complete with fireproof type 6 nylon chin straps. Clear face shield in polycarbonate according to EN 166 standard.

3) Boots made of black full grain and water resistant leather with a molded heavy duty non-slip rubber.

4) Fire retardant gloves made of FR treated cow hide offering the best thermal insulation. Inside lining

finished with kevlar for added cut protection.

All the above materials that makes these equipments have these properties :-

1) FR fabric self-extinguishes or resists ignition.

2) Does not melt onto skin.

3) Provides thermal insulation from heat.

4) Resists breaking open and exposing skin.

5) Reduces burn injury and increases chances of survival.

The hero firefighter's recovery comes aptly on May 1 - Labour Day in Singapore - and serves as a reminder of the hard work the SCDF team has been putting to keep our country safe. Kudos to them!

Top photo collage via SCDF's Facebook page and Red Seo Hong Heng.

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