Advisers

Dexter C. Pon, RCrim, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Fire incidents remain a significant concern in local communities, highlighting the importance of effective fire safety initiatives and community-based support systems. In the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), in collaboration with Community Fire Auxiliary Groups (CFAG), implements programs aimed at strengthening fire prevention and enhancing community resilience. This study examined the effectiveness of fire safety initiatives implemented by the Fire Auxiliary Group in enhancing community resilience. The study aimed to: (1) describe the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of age, civil status, sex, and length of residency or years in service; (2) assess the effectiveness of fire safety initiatives in terms of awareness and preparedness, community participation, and capacity and resources; and (3) identify the problems encountered by respondents related to the implementation of these initiatives. A descriptive quantitative research design was employed. The respondents consisted of 50 community members selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistical tools, including frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and composite mean, were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed that most respondents were aged 18–25 years (46%), single (72%), male (70%), and had resided or served in the community for 10 years and above (54%). The effectiveness of fire safety initiatives was generally rated as Strongly Agree across all dimensions: awareness and preparedness (WM = 3.27), community participation (WM = 3.40), and capacity and resources (WM = 3.43). The highest-rated indicator was the effectiveness of coordination between CFAG, the BFP, and other agencies (WM = 3.55). The primary problem identified was the lack of sufficient firefighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers, hoses, and protective gear (84%). The study concluded that fire safety initiatives implemented by the Fire Auxiliary Group were effective in enhancing community resilience. However, improvements in resource provision and logistical support are necessary to sustain and further strengthen community-based fire prevention efforts.

Keywords

fire safety, Bureau of Fire Protection, Fire Auxiliary Group, community resilience, interagency collaboration