Checklist for Flood and Fire Preparedness in Informal Settlements

Informal settlements are highly vulnerable to floods and fires due to poor drainage, overcrowding, and lack of fire-resistant structures. This practical checklist provides low-cost, community-driven solutions to help residents prepare, reduce risks, and respond effectively to disasters.

Flood Preparedness Checklist

1. Improve Drainage to Reduce Flood Risk

  • Clear drainage pathways of debris, waste, and blockages before heavy rains.
  • Create small trenches or channels around homes to redirect water flow.
  • Raise the foundation of homes with sandbags, stones, or compacted soil.
  • Use plastic sheets and tarpaulins on roofs and walls to prevent leaks.
  • Install water collection barrels to capture excess rainwater.

2. Strengthen Housing & Infrastructure

  • Use waterproof materials (cement, mud bricks, or treated wood) to reinforce walls.
  • Secure roofs with strong fasteners to prevent storm damage.
  • Raise electrical outlets above potential flood levels to prevent electrocution.

3. Emergency Supplies for Flood Response

  • Store dry food and clean water in waterproof containers.
  • Keep important documents (IDs, birth certificates, passports) in plastic bags.
  • Have emergency torches, batteries, and a radio for updates.
  • Identify safe evacuation routes to higher ground.

4. Community Preparedness & Early Warning

Monitor weather updates on mobile phones or community radio.

Establish a community flood response team for evacuations and rescues.

Practice evacuation drills and identify temporary shelters.

Create a shared emergency contact list for rapid communication.

Fire Preparedness Checklist

1. Fire Prevention in the Home

  • Keep cooking areas separate from sleeping spaces.
  • Store fuel (kerosene, gas) away from the house in well-ventilated areas.
  • Use safe cooking stoves instead of open flames where possible.
  • Ensure proper electrical wiring—avoid overloaded sockets and exposed wires.
  • Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach.

2. Fire Safety in the Community

  • Create firebreaks (empty spaces) between homes to slow fire spread.
  • Train residents in basic fire response using water, sand, or blankets.
  • Install communal fire extinguishers or water tanks in key locations.
  • Ban the burning of waste near homes.
  • Form a community fire response team to assist during emergencies.

3. Emergency Response to Fires

  • Have an evacuation plan and meeting points for families.
  • Teach STOP, DROP, and ROLL techniques for clothing fires.
  • Ensure exits are clear and homes have at least two escape routes.
  • Call for help immediately—know emergency numbers or the nearest fire station.

After a Disaster: Recovery & Rebuilding

  • Check for injuries and provide first aid if needed.
  • Inspect homes for structural damage before returning.
  • Boil or purify water before drinking after a flood.
  • Seek support from local government, NGOs, or community organisations.
  • Rebuild using stronger, fire-resistant, and flood-proof materials.

Conclusion: Community Action Saves Lives

Preparation is key to survival in informal settlements. By organising as a community, maintaining awareness, and implementing these steps, residents can reduce disaster risks and save lives.

  • Share this checklist with your community.
  • Join or form a local disaster response team.
  • Advocate for better drainage and fire safety measures.

Every action counts—be prepared, stay safe, and protect your community!

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