Hong Kong to Modernize Emergency Communication Systems Following Tai Po Fire Inquiry

In response to the findings of an inquiry into the devastating Tai Po fire that occurred on November 26, 2022, which resulted in 168 fatalities, Hong Kong's Secretary for Security, Chris Tang Ping-keung, announced plans to replace outdated fax communication between police and firefighters with a digital system. This decision aims to address significant delays in emergency response times highlighted during the inquiry.

South China Morning Post

The inquiry revealed critical inefficiencies in the emergency response system, particularly a bottleneck between the police's 999 call center and the Fire Services Department. Testimonies indicated that callers experienced excessive wait times, with some waiting up to 15 minutes for their calls to be transferred. The inquiry underscored the inadequacy of the current communication methods, notably the reliance on fax machines, which are increasingly seen as obsolete.

South China Morning Post

During the inquiry, it was noted that the police emergency center operated with 200 telephone lines, while the Fire Services Department had only 30. This disparity contributed to delays in emergency response. For instance, a domestic helper caring for a senior citizen was forced to wait 90 seconds for a transfer, only to have to repeat critical information to a second operator. Lawmaker Chan Hok-fung criticized the use of fax machines, emphasizing the need for a more modern communication strategy.

South China Morning Post

Chris Tang Ping-keung stated at a Legislative Council Finance Committee meeting that the government is committed to enhancing the emergency communication system. He acknowledged the need for increased phone lines at emergency call centers and the transition to a digital messaging system to facilitate quicker and more efficient communication between departments.

South China Morning Post

Critics have pointed out that the reliance on outdated technology, such as fax machines, is indicative of broader systemic issues within Hong Kong's emergency response framework. Lawmakers and public safety advocates have called for immediate reforms to prevent future tragedies and ensure that emergency services can respond effectively.

South China Morning Post

The Hong Kong government is expected to outline a timeline for the implementation of the new digital communication system and additional resources for emergency call centers. Stakeholders are closely monitoring these developments to ensure that the proposed changes lead to tangible improvements in public safety and emergency response efficiency.

South China Morning Post

“Nowadays, nobody really uses fax machines any more,” — Chan Hok-fung, Lawmaker

South China Morning Post