Fire disaster preparedness of public buildings in Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Fire outbreaks have risen to a worldwide attention in recent years as both an environmental and economic issue. Despite the fact that nothing could be sustainably done to completely stop the occurrence of fire disaster, something could be done to mitigate the spread. This study therefore assessed fire preparedness and mitigation provisions in the events of fire disaster in public buildings in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria. Disaster Preparedness provided the conceptual framework for this study. Cross-sectional survey was adopted in this study. Forty three (43) public buildings and one hundred and eight (108) building users were conveniently selected and sampled. Data were gathered through direct observation and questionnaire administration in selected buildings. Findings showed that banks, social buildings and hospitals were the public buildings more committed to providing and maintaining fire safety equipment. The study also revealed that 51.9% of the occupants of the public buildings have poor knowledge in the operation of fire safety installations.  The study concluded by recommending that existing fire safety provisions in building codes should be reviewed and implemented with defaulters punished according to the law. Additionally, public building occupants should be compelled to participate in regular training on fire safety, fire disaster first aid and evacuation procedure.