The word fire has become quite a common term for Kibera residents.
Many of the residents say other Kenyans have never been directly affected by it. In fact, there is a joke in the slum that goes, ‘‘if fire breaks out anywhere, ask Kibera residents to put it out before the brigade team arrives.’’ However, residents in the slums seem to have taken in advises on how to live carefully to avoid fire break outs.
Most of the reported fire incidences in the area were caused by the carelessness of the residents where some left heaters on while there was no power.
Due to the constant occurrences of cases of fire, the residents said they had to discuss on how to deal with the cases. They decided to be careful while dealing with electricity.
‘‘We sat down and decided that we will not joke with any person whose house will be seen as the cause of the fire. This might have been the reason why the incidences have reduced,’’ said Anne Wairimu.
Most affected areas were Mashimoni, some parts of Laini Saba and a few places in Kisumu Ndogo village.