Fires and Emergencies

Over the years fires have been a sadly all too frequent hazard of slum life. With wooden houses, built close together, once a fire starts it can spread with great rapidity. In the past serious fires, which could make several hundred families homeless, were looked upon as an annual event. In recent years, however, the risk of fires, although still serious, has decreased.

The reason for major fires becoming less frequent is the improved fire-fighting capability at the Duang Prateep Foundation and in slum communities. The DPF has received four fire-engines, which were donated after being in service at Toyonaka in Japan. The fire-engines are manned round the clock by volunteers from the local communities. The Duang Prateep Foundation also coordinates fire-fighter training for volunteer groups in each community.

Fires still break out frequently in Khlong Toei Slum but the key to containing fires to a confined area has been the rapid response of trained fire-fighters from the immediate vicinity. The risk of fire remains and constant vigilance is required, but an increased sense of security is welcome to slum dwellers.

Despite the efforts of the volunteer fire fighters it is certain that serious fires will again destroy many homes in Khlong Toei slum. When fires do occur the Duang Prateep Foundation works with other government and non-government organizations in providing disaster relief.