An Empirical Study on Disaster Preparedness Among Fire Station Employees

Abstract

This study investigates disaster preparedness among fire station employees, focusing on their knowledge, training, and readiness to respond effectively during emergencies. The research highlights the crucial role of continuous training, resource allocation, and cross-functional teamwork in building resilient emergency response teams. Many research studies on disaster preparedness have predominantly focused on the medical sector, overlooking fire station employees. Existing literature often generalizes findings across emergency services, missing fire-specific challenges. Few studies assess individual preparedness, training, and perception among firefighters. This creates a clear gap in understanding disaster readiness within fire stations. It aims to assess the existing protocols, challenges, and strategies for disaster response within fire stations. Data for this study was collected from 250 respondents through surveys with fire station personnel, the research evaluates their level of preparedness for different types of disasters, such as fires, natural calamities, and chemical accidents. The sampling method used in this study was purposive sampling, and statistical tools were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, oneway ANOVA, and exploratory factor analysis. This study finds out disaster preparedness behaviour in training, resources, and coordination with other emergency services, offering recommendations for improving disaster response efficiency. The findings will contribute to enhancing disaster preparedness strategies and ensure that fire station employees are adequately equipped to safeguard lives and property during crises. The conclusion of the study, fire station employees are ready to accept the natural and manmade disaster situations through the adequate training of disaster preparedness.