[The Conversation Africa] In many African communities, fire hazards are a concern due to the materials used for building and daily activities such as cooking and heating. The risks are increased by the use of highly flammable materials in homes and the absence of fire prevention measures. A major fire in a Johannesburg building in 2023, for example, claimed dozens of lives and highlighted the need for improved fire safety, especially in urban and informal settlements where combustible materials are widespread.