STOMPer Regis feels that it is overkill to mobilise so much resources to put out a fire at Pasir Ris Street 12 Block 108. The fire was apparently caused by burning incense paper, and the SCDF personnel were at the scene for a 'good 30 minutes'.

Several STOMPers have also voiced their concerns over some residents practising this custom, in a dangerous, or irresponsible manner.

Asked STOMPer Regis:

"Are they using too much resources? They were spraying water for a good 30 minutes."

STOMPer June sent in a picture of residents burning paper offerings near some bushes in a grass patch and asked:

"Is it safe to burn joss paper in a surrounded area like this grass patch?

"I thought there are rules on where joss paper can be burnt?"

Another STOMPer is concerned about a cluster of incense bins located right beside a children's playground. The STOMPer said:

"I took this picture at the northern part of Singapore. I'm surprised that the RC nearby grant the resident permission to burn their incensed paper near the children's playground.

"It may cause some incidents such as fires. The rubber mat can melt due to the flying ashes that are still burning around near the playground.

"I hope that the Town Council will look this more closely."

Read other STOMPers' concerns about burning incense paper on the next page.

STOMPer Baz sent in a photo of a pile of ashes on a footpath and commented:

"This picture was taken yesterday on the footpath outside a food court and not 50m from a bus stop.

"I respect the religious aspect but this is just irresponsible. We had to walk off the footpath because of the heat from it?

"Who will clean up the mess?"

STOMPer Fido also wondered about cleaning up:

"I am not against anyone, just that this could have been done in a better way.

"I don't think any S'porean would clear this up. Probably the PRC cleaners would have to do it."

STOMPer MeGoGreen said:

"Firstly, it causes air pollution but this can be excused because it is a tradition.

"Secondly, we are told to keep the environment clean, but some are making a huge mess.

"Please keep Singapore clean and most importantly, be considerate."