HOME ALERT: A HOUSEHOLD-ORIENTED MONITORING AND ALARM SYSTEM FOR DETECTION AND RESPONSE TO RISING FLOOD THREATS IN SMALL-SCALE FLOOD-PRONE COMMUNITIES

Abstract

Flooding in the Philippines is one of the deadliest natural hazards, leading to deaths, property damage, and agricultural damage. Despite government advisories and local-level sirens, many households near flood-prone areas remain very vulnerable to flooding. In response to this gap, this research designed a simple, low-cost, and reliable flood-monitoring and early-warning device for use within the flood-alarm systems of ordinary households. The alarm system draws on basic principles of physical science to create light signals that increase in intensity and a critical-level sound. There were multiple tests that were conducted with multiple conditions of operation, a gradual but consistent increase of water, a sudden pour of additional liquid on the sensor, and cutting power to the electrical system. The outcomes showed a 100% success rate of attempts to detect water levels. All indicators in the form of LEDs and buzzers were consistently made until the low water mark was reached, and the buzzers sounded off or continued to operate. As compared with traditional alarm systems, HOME ALERT had greater practicality, was cheaper, and easier for users to interpret. A product intentionally developed to meet the needs of non-technical individuals in a small-scale community. HOME ALERT offers affordable, pragmatic options for community alarm awareness, thereby enabling individuals and families to receive the necessary alarm, improving disaster preparedness and level of response at the family level. This creates a safer community and a more resilient society amid ongoing flooding in Tanjay City.