Cameras in HDB Not to Catch Smokers in Flat But to Catch Killer Litter

Yesterday, a viral Facebook post made its round in social media.

And this:

Well, guess what?

It’s not real, and the Facebook post has been taken down.

Now you know why fake news could be a real issue here in Singapore.

Yet, at the same time, you’ll be glad to know that Singaporeans can differentiate fake news and real news fast.

Singaporeans Cried Fake News Faster Than Babies Crying for Baby Sharks

While I don’t have the screenshots and that the post has since been deleted, based on what I see yesterday on my phone, most of the people who commented said something along this line:

“It’s fake.”

“That’s the camera to catch killer litter.”

“Yishun isn’t that scary anymore.”

Okay, I made up the last point, but the first two points were real news. Nevertheless, what’s this weird-looking camera? Cannot be a speed camera to capture PMDs moving too ‘fastly’ in HDB corridors, right? (though I’d love that)

Camera Mounted in HDB to Catch Killer Litter

Back in 2012, 100 of these cameras were deployed by HDB to curb high-rise littering. These cameras can even detect items as small as a cigarette butts, so the person who posted about being issued an NEA letter could have been fined for littering instead of smoking in a flat.

In 2015, it’s reported that more of these cameras would be deployed, on an average of 1,080 per year.

These cameras are mounted not just on corridors, but on rooftops, staircase landings, car parks and other areas.

There’s no need to worry about your privacy, as the camera would only point at the external façade of suspected units without zooming into the interior, even if you’re doing something that you shouldn’t be doing right inside your house.

Also, only authorized personnel can view the footage, so don’t worry about seeing yourself in Facebook for dancing to Baby Shark.

There Are Still No Laws About Smoking Within Flats

Lest you’re wondering why the post has gone viral, here’s why: about two weeks ago, MPs urged the authorities to do something about smoking at home, as the secondhand smoke could waft into neighbouring units.

But that’s just that: it was a mention. No laws were passed, so smoking at home technically is still not illegal.

It created a public debate on whether it should be banned or not.

Health Risks of Secondhand Smoke

In case you’re not aware, secondhand smoke is bad for you: you’re 20% to 30% more likely to develop lung cancer and cardiovascular disease if you’re exposed to secondhand smoke.

The authorities have been reducing the number of places to smoke: by the end of this year, Orchard Road would be smoke-free as well.

But of course, remember: your house is still not one of these places.