A Close Call in Sembawang Park: A Family Watch
On Sunday, December 5th, a family looking to soak up some sunshine on a picnic in Sembawang Park found themselves in a heart‑pounding moment when a nearby tree suddenly fell right behind them.
The Moment of the Fall
- A 41‑year‑old dad recounted to the Shin Min Daily News that his daughter was only five and—and his eight‑year‑old son—momentarily terrified.
- They were playing catch, with the ball tucked just a few yards from a tall Indian Rosewood. The dad says, “We heard a snap—then two seconds later, the tree just dropped.”
- In a split second, the family’s adventure turned into a live‑action scare, but thankfully the daughter emerged unhurt.
What Went Wrong?
When the father peered at the fallen giant, he noticed the trunk was rotting inside out. The tree stood six to nine metres tall and had a girth of 1.4 metres—no small tree at all.
NParks (National Parks Board) was alerted at about 3:30 pm on Dec 5th. By 6 pm, park maintenance crews had chopped the tree into manageable sections, cleared any branches, and set up a protective barricade around the spot.
Regular Tree Care in Singapore
Authorities say:
- All trees are inspected every 6 to 24 months—more often if they’re in high‑traffic or older neighborhoods.
- Regular pruning keeps trees structurally sound and reduces the risk of falls.
Past Incidents to Remember
- Feb 2023 – In Marsiling Park, a 38‑year‑old woman tragically lost her life when a tree fell on her. A small group of passers‑by tried to lift the heavy trunk, but the Civil Defence Force had to use cutting equipment to free her.
- 2017 – A tembusu tree at the Singapore Botanic Gardens dropped on another 38‑year‑old woman, also injuring her husband and two kids. The incident sparked a fresh look at tree safety in park areas.
What It Means for Families
The family’s experience has made them wary about returning to the park anytime soon, and it’s a stark reminder that even in green spaces, nature can be unpredictable. If you’re planning a park day, keep an eye on the trees and consider making a quick walk to a safer spot while your kids play.
For more updates, keep an eye on NParks communications and local news outlets. The 2023 instances only underline the importance of vigilant tree maintenance—so next time you’re out, take a moment to look around and appreciate the balance of nature—and stay safe!
