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!