Building Urban Fire Resilience Through Integrated Disaster Management: A Case of Kemuning, Palembang

Abstract

Urban fire disasters pose significant challenges to public safety, particularly in densely populated settlements where limited road access, vulnerable buildings, and human activities may increase disaster risks. This study analyzes fire disaster management implemented by the Fire and Rescue Department in Kemuning, Palembang, based on the disaster management cycle developed by Nick W. Carter. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and documentation involving government officials, operational firefighters, and residents in Kemuning. Data were analyzed through data collection, reduction, display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings indicate that fire disaster management has been implemented through prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and development activities, although its overall implementation remains suboptimal. Prevention is conducted through public education and socialization, but its coverage remains uneven. Mitigation is supported by adequate and routinely maintained rescue equipment, while narrow residential roads constrain operational mobility. Preparedness is strengthened through a clear command system, personnel training, and operational coordination. Response activities include evacuation and post-fire investigation, although limited water sources, dense environments, crowds, and post-fire community conditions create operational constraints. Functional resilience has been strengthened through emergency communication and Call Center 112, while structural resilience remains weak because dense settlements and combustible building materials persist. The findings highlight the need for integrated infrastructure improvement, broader community education, and stronger community participation to  build more resilient urban fire management.