Fire Safety in Informal Settlements: Prevention, Response, and Community Action

Fires in informal settlements are a serious and ongoing threat in South Africa. Every year, thousands of residents face the devastating consequences of shack fires — loss of homes, personal belongings, and tragically, lives. While prevention is key, knowing how to respond quickly when a fire starts can make all the difference.

At FTS Safety, through our SPARC Project, we work with communities to reduce fire risks and empower residents with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe.

What Commonly Causes Fires in Informal Settlements

Understanding the main causes of shack fires helps in preventing them:

1. Open flames: Candles, paraffin stoves, or open fires used for cooking or lighting.
2. Faulty wiring: Makeshift electrical connections and overloading of extension cords.
3. Flammable materials: Corrugated iron, cardboard, and other combustible materials used in construction.
4. Negligence: Leaving cooking unattended or careless disposal of cigarette butts.
5. Overcrowding: Densely packed homes allow fires to spread rapidly.

How to Prevent Fires in Informal Settlements

Prevention is the first line of defence. Residents can take simple but effective steps to reduce risk:

• Safe cooking practices: Keep stoves stable, never leave cooking unattended, and avoid using open flames indoors if possible.
• Electrical safety: Avoid overloading sockets, use certified wiring, and keep cables away from water or heat sources.
• Clear escape routes: Ensure pathways are free from clutter so residents can exit quickly in case of a fire.
• Separate flammable materials: Keep cardboard, paper, and fuel away from heat sources.
• Community awareness: Educate neighbours about fire hazards and safe practices.

How to Respond if a Fire Starts

Knowing how to act quickly can save lives:

• Alert others immediately: Shout and warn neighbours, especially children and the elderly.
• Use available fire-fighting tools: Fire blankets, buckets of water, or small extinguishers can help contain small fires.
• Evacuate safely: Always prioritise people over property.
• Call emergency services: Contact the local fire department as soon as possible.
• Do not re-enter: Never go back inside a burning shack; wait for trained personnel.

How FTS Safety Helps Through the SPARC Project

FTS Safety’s SPARC Project is designed to reduce shack-fire incidents and empower communities:

1. Volunteer training: We train community members to become fire-safety ambassadors. They learn to identify hazards, prevent unsafe practices, and respond to small fires effectively.
2. Equipping communities: Fire blankets, extinguishers, and other tools are provided to households to tackle small fires safely.
3. Hazard identification: Trained volunteers conduct inspections, helping residents spot risky wiring, unsafe cooking setups, and overcrowded layouts.
4. Building a culture of safety: Continuous follow-up, education, and community engagement ensure that fire-safety knowledge is shared and maintained long-term.

Key Takeaways

• Fires in informal settlements are largely preventable with awareness, safe practices, and early intervention.
• Quick and calm responses save lives and property.
• Community involvement is critical — neighbours helping neighbours can dramatically reduce risk.
• FTS Safety’s SPARC Project empowers communities to be proactive about fire safety, providing training, resources, and guidance for lasting impact.

Disclaimer: This article is based on FTS Safety’s research and experience working with informal settlements. Local circumstances may vary, and additional precautions or resources may be required depending on specific community conditions.