Fire Disaster Preparedness in Lagos Markets

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Project Overview

This project evaluates fire disaster preparedness among market traders in Lagos State, Nigeria. By surveying traders across Mandilas, Oshodi, and Alaba markets, it examines socioeconomic characteristics, identifies fire hazards, measures perceived risk severity, and assesses preparedness levels. The findings highlight gaps in prevention, response strategies, and resource allocation, offering insights for safer marketplaces and resilient communities.

Objectives

• Assess socioeconomic characteristics of market traders.

• Identify prevalent fire hazards in Lagos markets.

• Evaluate the severity of risks associated with fire hazards.

• Measure traders’ level of preparedness toward fire disasters.

• Examine factors influencing fire disaster preparedness.

Key Findings

• High Exposure: Traders face significant risks from poor wiring, combustible goods, and blocked exits.

• Preparedness Gaps: Limited fire drills, alarms, extinguishers, and safety committees reduce readiness.

• Economic Strain: Billions lost in goods and livelihoods; most traders lack insurance coverage.

• Socioeconomic Variability: Education and income levels influence awareness and preparedness capacity.

• Institutional Weakness: Emergency response is often delayed, and enforcement of safety codes is inadequate.

Recommendations

Policy & Planning

• Enforce compliance with building and fire safety codes across markets.

• Establish dedicated market fire safety committees.

• Introduce affordable insurance schemes tailored to traders.

Resource Allocation

• Provide fire safety equipment (alarms, extinguishers, sprinklers) at subsidized rates.

• Train traders through regular fire drills and awareness programs.

• Strengthen emergency response capacity of Lagos Fire Services and LASEMA.

Further Analysis

• Explore household-level economic impacts of fire disasters.

• Conduct longitudinal studies on post-disaster recovery and resilience.

Expected Impacts

• Improved fire safety awareness and preparedness among traders.

• Reduced loss of life, goods, and economic disruptions from fire outbreaks.

• Strengthened coordination between traders and emergency agencies.

• Long-term reduction in market fire frequency and severity.

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