Bakwit Kit (A flat-packed evacuation kit.)
The Bakwit Kit features a DIY evacuation kit made of lightweight readily available materials.
How does it work?
Bakwit Kit is a flat-packed evacuation kit in two boxes with ball casters for easy transportation that will store the following: PVC pipes and connectors for the freestanding framing, roller shades made of canvas, folding mattress, pillows, collapsible furniture like dining table and storage cabinet. These boxes serve as storage. It also comes with a drawer that has a light box for illumination. When put together, the box serves as a double-size bed. The kit is also designed to be assembled in a series of units like a giant puzzle, providing more space for big families including extended families. This kit will be pre-positioned and stored in the evacuation centers. At the onset of an emergency and disaster, these kits are valuable tools for creating temporary living space within the evacuation center. The kits are designed to be within the context of an evacuation center- with roofs and walls that provide protection from harsh elements.
Why is it needed?
Designated Evacuation Centers (ECs) in the Philippines are open spaces accessible to the communities like gymnasiums, schools, and barangay centers. In preparation for natural or man-made disasters, families are encouraged to evacuate to the designated ECs. In the past calamities like typhoon Haiyan, most families prefer to stay in their houses because it is inconvenient to carry heavy bags with clothes, utensils, food, and other necessities to ECs. Some people experience discomfort due to extreme thermal conditions like humidity during the day and coldness during the night. Overcrowded ECs also compromise the privacy of women and children. Edward T. Hall’s study on proxemics suggests that personal spaces should be respected and overcrowded ECs are invasive of personal space. Without privacy, there could be a high risk of harassment of children or women.
How does it improve life?
In post-disaster management, people stay in evacuation centers, gymnasiums, and schools - spaces lacking basic living amenities. Evacuees live in these transitional shelters for an indefinite period of time. The kit's design solves the following issues: Dignity- Using locally-made materials in the area, will provide a sense of place. If the evacuation kits are designed within the context of local culture, it will not only dignify the space but will also suggest a sense of home. Thereby creating spaces that will have a positive impact on the psycho-social health of the evacuees. Privacy – In crowded conditions of evacuation centers, women and children are susceptible to gender-based violence. This can be avoided by giving evacuees a sense of privacy by clustering families, giving them adequate space for daily living, and setting up boundaries. Convenience-The Bakwit Kits are pre-positioned at the evacuation centers, making it convenient and efficient for all evacuees.