Response to ST Forum Letter on "Review No-charger Rule For NS Recruits"

Overloading sockets with chargers a potential fire hazard in BMTC

We thank Mr Lee Yong Se for his feedback on the Basic Military Training Centre's (BMTC) no-mobile phone charger rule ("Review no-charger rule for NS Recruits", 30 Oct).

Recruits undergoing Basic Military Training at BMTC are not permitted to bring in mobile phone chargers. At any one time, BMTC trains and accommodates a large number of recruits and has the highest population among all Singapore Armed Forces camps. Mass charging of mobile phones would mean using multi-adaptors and extension cords, which increases the risks of overheating. This restriction is necessary as the safety of our servicemen is of paramount importance.

BMTC advises recruits to bring spare batteries or charged power banks with them to extend their mobile phones' battery life. As the bulk of the time is spent on training, recruits are also encouraged to switch off their phones when not in use, and make short and essential calls during off-training hours. If necessary, recruits may request to use the office phones in the duty rooms if they need to make urgent phone calls. Family members may also call the 24-hour office administrative lines in the event of emergencies.

Colonel Desmond Yeo
Commander,
Basic Military Training Centre, Singapore Armed Forces

MINDEF's reply was published as "Why recruits not allowed to use mobile phone chargers", Straits Times, 03 Nov 14