UNSRI Strengthens Fire Preparedness Among Gelebak Residents

The event, which took place at the Gelebak Dalam Village Office, was led by Yulasteriyani, S.Sos., M.Sos., a lecturer in the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Sriwijaya University, along with an interdisciplinary implementation team consisting of Cynthia Azhara Putri, S.H., M.Kn., Sabda Ningsih, M.Hub.Int., Muhammad Iqbal Yunazwardi, S.IP., M.Si., Santriana, S.H., M.H., and Windy Rizky Putri, S.H., M.H. The event also featured Rian Nursaputra, S.Kes., Ners., as a facilitator who reinforced the material on workplace safety and fire prevention. Community members and village government representatives also participated in this event.

Under the theme “Community Social Resilience through Fire Safety Awareness,” this program was implemented to enhance residents’ understanding of the causes of fires, preventive measures, and initial actions to take when facing an emergency. Fire risks—particularly those related to electrical installations and the use of LPG—were a key focus of the educational session.

From Awareness Sessions to Simulations

The event began with a presentation on the causes of fires, prevention, and initial response. Participants were also introduced to portable fire extinguishers (APAR), including an explanation of their functions and how to use them.

In addition to receiving theoretical instruction, residents also participated in hands-on firefighting drills and simulations. During this session, participants were shown how to use fire extinguishers as well as several simple fire-suppression tools, such as wet burlap sacks and fire blankets.

Through these practical exercises, the community is expected to better understand the importance of being prepared for fires and to recognize that response measures must be tailored to the type and conditions of the fire. Personal safety remains the top priority when facing a fire situation.

Strengthening Community Resilience

This activity not only emphasizes the technical aspects of firefighting but also the importance of community resilience. In the face of an emergency, residents’ ability to communicate with one another, cooperate, and provide assistance is a vital part of collective preparedness.

The values of mutual aid and solidarity that thrive in village life can serve as social capital for building a collective response. Therefore, fire response is not merely an individual responsibility but requires the concern and involvement of all segments of society.

Moving forward, efforts to strengthen preparedness must continue through regular education and simulations, the strengthening of fire response teams, and improved coordination between residents and the village government.

Through this activity, Sriwijaya University strives to make a tangible contribution as a higher education institution in addressing community needs. Enhancing residents’ knowledge and solidarity is expected to be a crucial step in building social resilience and creating a village environment that is better prepared to face fire risks. Of course, the various forms of community service carried out by the team are an implementation of the course material taught on campus as well as research relevant to the topic of this activity.