Fire Prevention Measures for Temporary Accommodation

Temporary accommodation, such as container houses, prefabricated cabins, and mobile shelters, is widely used at construction sites, disaster relief areas, and remote workplaces. While these structures provide fast and flexible housing solutions, their compact design and intensive usage make them highly prone to fire hazards if not properly managed. Therefore, implementing effective fire prevention measures is crucial for protecting the safety of occupants and property.

1. Use Fire-Resistant and Compliant Materials

Fire safety starts with the selection of construction materials. Walls, ceilings, and insulation materials should be made of flame-retardant and non-combustible substances that meet local fire safety regulations. The use of certified fire-resistant panels and coatings can slow down the spread of fire and enhance occupant safety.

It is imperative to avoid using cheap or uncertified materials, as these are not only easy to ignite but also accelerate fire damage. Additionally, doors and windows should have a certain level of heat and flame resistance to prevent rapid fire penetration into the interior.

2. Ensure Standardized Electrical Installation and Regular Maintenance

Electrical faults are one of the main causes of fires in temporary accommodation. To reduce such risks, all electrical wiring and installation work must be carried out by licensed professionals in strict compliance with safety standards. Proper grounding, insulation protection for wires, and organized wiring can effectively prevent short circuits and overheating of electrical lines.

Regular inspections of the electrical system are required to promptly identify damaged wires, loose connections, or overloaded circuits. Meanwhile, occupants must not modify electrical facilities without authorization or use counterfeit electrical products to ensure electrical safety.

3. Safe Use of Heating and Cooking Equipment

Heating and cooking equipment are essential in many temporary accommodations, but improper use poses significant fire risks. Devices such as heaters and stoves must be certified qualified products suitable for indoor use, and their placement should be far from flammable items like curtains, bedding, and wooden panels.

When using such equipment, adequate indoor ventilation must be ensured to avoid heat accumulation and gas leakage. If liquefied gas cylinders are used, they should be safely stored outdoors, and regular checks should be conducted to detect potential leaks. Never leave cooking unattended, and always turn off the power or gas supply of the equipment when not in use.

4. Install Fire Detection and Firefighting Equipment

Smoke alarms are fundamental fire safety devices and should be installed in every housing unit. The batteries of these alarms need to be checked regularly to ensure their proper operation. Fire extinguishers should be placed in easily accessible locations with clear markings.

For larger temporary accommodation areas, additional safety facilities such as emergency lighting, clearly visible evacuation routes, and alarm systems should be installed to shorten the emergency response time in case of a fire. At the same time, occupants must receive training on the use of firefighting equipment to ensure they can operate it effectively.

5. Strengthen Occupant Safety Education and Safety Supervision

Human behavior often has a significant impact on fire safety outcomes. Regular fire safety training sessions should be conducted to improve occupants’ awareness of fire risks and their ability to respond correctly to emergencies. Occupants should be guided to eliminate dangerous behaviors such as smoking indoors and overloading power sockets.

A fire safety officer or supervisor can be appointed to take charge of daily safety supervision. This person should conduct regular safety inspections, urge the implementation of safety regulations, and organize evacuation drills to foster a safety-oriented atmosphere in the temporary accommodation area.

6. Conclusion

Fire prevention for temporary accommodation requires a comprehensive approach: selecting fire-resistant materials, ensuring electrical safety, standardizing the use of heating and cooking equipment, installing fire detection and firefighting facilities, and strengthening occupant safety education. By implementing these measures and adhering to regular maintenance, temporary accommodation can remain a safe and reliable housing option in various scenarios.