Building a Culture of Safety: Insights of Stakeholders on the Fire Prevention Initiatives of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)

This study aimed to examine the perspectives of school administrators in Ginatilan and Malabuyoc, Cebu regarding the Fire Safety Awareness Program of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). Employing a mixed-method design, the research integrated both quantitative and qualitative approaches to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the program influences fire safety awareness, preparedness, and preventive practices within schools. A total of twelve (12) school administrators were purposively selected as informants to share their insights, experiences, and perceptions of the implementation and impact of the BFP’s fire safety initiatives.
Data were collected through survey questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and field observations, and analyzed using both statistical and thematic techniques. The quantitative findings revealed that the BFP’s Fire Safety Awareness Program significantly enhanced the schools’ level of preparedness, awareness, and compliance with fire safety standards. Meanwhile, the qualitative results identified several emergent themes reflecting the informants’ perspectives. Positive views on the program were represented by the themes Holistic and Empowering Approach and Proactive Leadership and Collaboration, while negative views included Limited Reach and Engagement and Gaps in Fire Prevention Role. Regarding the perceived role of the BFP in preventing and responding to fire incidents, the themes Inclusive Fire Safety Communication and Ineffective Communication Strategies emerged. As for the BFP’s communication and information dissemination strategies, the themes Empowered Community Practices and Minimal Community Impact were identified. The study also revealed the challenges and barriers faced by the community, particularly Time and Motivation Constraints and Communication and Inclusivity Gaps. Finally, the participants suggested the need for Strengthening Collaborative Engagement and Enhancing Engagement and Collaboration to ensure sustainable partnerships with the BFP.
The findings reveal that school administrators in Ginatilan and Malabuyoc recognize the vital role of the BFP’s Fire Safety Awareness Program in promoting preparedness, preventive awareness, and community resilience. Their perspectives highlight both the strengths and limitations of the program, emphasizing the importance of continuous education, improved communication, and active collaboration between the Bureau and educational institutions to foster safer and more fire-resilient school environments.

Fire Safety Awareness Program, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Mixed Method, School Administration, Fire Preparedness, Ginatilan, Malabuyoc, Cebu

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