THE ROLE OF COMMUNICATION ON FIRE SAFETY MANAGEMENT: A STUDY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF GHANA COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT 

With advancements in technology and the complex systems of high rise buildings, the trend of fire outbreaks in buildings is increasing worldwide, including developing countries like Ghana. This requires public awareness and information to ensure the safety of owners or occupiers of such premises. Fire incidences are anticipated at the University of Ghana which accommodates a number of different facility users. This study was conducted to find out the knowledge and impressions of stakeholders about the role communication plays in fire safety management. The general objective was to assess the effectiveness of communication in fire safety management in the University of Ghana, Legon 

The study employed the quantitative and qualitative research methods. The multi-stage sampling technique was used to sample 150 respondents administered with questionnaires and the purposive sampling method was used to sample two officers of the University of Ghana Fire Station, Legon who were interviewed. For the theoretical framework, the systems theory and the media richness theory were used. The findings of the study revealed that community education is the highest means of communication used by the Ghana National Fire Service. The University community are aware of the communications technologies available to them to access information on fire safety management. It was also evident that the University of Ghana place much emphasis on fire safety management by supporting the Ghana National Fire Service and providing the required fire safety equipment in the University community. It is therefore recommended that the existing community education and training is intensified and replicated in all Fire Stations nationwide.