LEVEL OF AWARENESS ON FIRE SAFETY MEASURES AMONG RESIDENTS

OF BRGY. TINAGO, OZAMIS CITY

A Research Proposal Presented to the

Faculty of the Institute of Criminal Justice Education
Tangub City Global College
Maloro, Tangub City

In Partial Fulfilment
Of the Requirements for the Degree
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL
SECURITY MANAGEMENT

Roland Malinao
Al Miguel C. Sedrome
Ellen Mae E. Ligotom
Janpaul Pondoc

May 2025
 Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Background of the Study

Fire safety is a fundamental aspect of community protection, particularly in

densely populated residential areas where the risk of fire incidents is heightened. The

growing number of fire-related emergencies in urban and semi-urban communities

highlights the need for increased public awareness and preparedness. In Brgy. Tinago,

Ozamis City, where many households may lack access to formal safety training,

understanding the residents’ level of awareness on fire safety measures becomes crucial.

Awareness of preventive practices, emergency responses, and the proper use of fire safety

tools can significantly reduce the impact of fires and save lives. Fire safety awareness

plays a crucial role in minimizing the risks and impacts of fire-related incidents,

particularly in residential communities where structural vulnerabilities and risky

behaviors often coexist. In the Philippine context, especially in densely populated

barangays like Brgy. Tinago, Ozamis City, fire safety remains a significant concern due to

informal housing, narrow pathways, and limited access to emergency services.

According to the World Health Organization (2022), fire-related injuries and

deaths are largely preventable through public awareness, proper infrastructure, and active

community engagement. However, in urban and semi-urban communities, the lack of

preparedness and information often contributes to the frequency and severity of fire

outbreaks. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) emphasizes the importance of fire safety

education in reducing fire incidents. Studies such as those by Santos and Rivera (2021)
have shown that communities with higher fire safety awareness are not only less prone to

fire accidents but also more effective in responding to emergencies. Despite the

availability of national programs like Barangay Ugnayan and Oplan Ligtas na Pamayanan

(BFP, 2023), challenges remain in areas like Brgy. Tinago, where clustered housing and

limited communication infrastructure hinder the reach of fire safety campaigns.

Behavioral factors—such as unattended cooking, faulty electrical wiring, and the use of

open flames—continue to increase fire risks, particularly where awareness and regulation

are weak. Research by Martinez and Dela Cruz et al., (2022) further highlights that

socioeconomic conditions and cultural practices influence how residents perceive and

prioritize fire safety.

Over the past three years, Barangay Tinago has emerged as one of the most

vulnerable areas in Ozamiz City in terms of fire-related incidents. Based on the data

provided by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Ozamiz City, from the year 2022 to

2025, a total of 23 fire incidents were recorded in Barangay Tinago alone. This alarming

number highlights significant gaps in fire safety and risk reduction strategies in the area.

One of the primary challenges is the narrow and congested roads, which hinder the swift

and effective response of fire trucks and emergency personnel during fire outbreaks. This

physical barrier delays intervention and increases the potential damage and casualties

during such emergencies. In addition, the lack of reliable and efficient communication

channels to report fire incidents promptly remains a critical concern, often leading to

delayed responses. Furthermore, unsafe cultural practices and daily habits, such as

leaving cooking unattended or using open flames for lighting and heating, significantly

contribute to the frequency of accidental fires. These behaviors, compounded by low fire
safety awareness and minimal access to fire prevention resources, underscore the urgent

need for comprehensive community-based education, improved infrastructure, and

enhanced coordination with local fire services.

This study aims to evaluate the level of awareness of fire safety measures among

residents of Brgy. Tinago, Ozamis City, and to provide recommendations for improving

community-based fire prevention initiatives.

Theoretical Framework

This study is anchored on the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) developed by

Rogers (1975), which explains how individuals are driven to adopt protective behaviors

when faced with perceived threats. PMT identifies four key cognitive components—

perceived severity, perceived vulnerability, response efficacy, and self-efficacy—that

influence the likelihood of individuals engaging in safety-related actions.

In the context of fire safety, residents are more likely to follow preventive

measures such as avoiding fire hazards, securing fire equipment, participating in drills,

and complying with fire policies if they believe fires pose a serious threat, feel personally

at risk, trust that recommended actions are effective, and are confident in their ability to

act. Smith and Miller (2020) found that communities with heightened fire risk awareness

were more proactive in installing smoke detectors, maintaining fire extinguishers, and

practicing safety habits. Baker et al. (2021) emphasized self-efficacy, noting that

individuals who believe in their capacity to manage emergencies are more likely to

prepare kits, rehearse evacuation, and learn fire suppression techniques. Similarly, Garcia

et al. (2020) and Martinez (2024) stressed that access to fire safety information and trust

in preventive strategies (response efficacy) significantly influence community readiness.

Additionally, community-based programs like the Bureau of Fire Protection’s Barangay

Ugnayan play a pivotal role in shaping awareness and behavior. These initiatives promote

evacuation protocols, use of fire tools, and knowledge of fire safety regulations. Santos

and Rivera (2021) reported that barangays with active fire safety programs had improved

emergency response and fewer fire incidents, demonstrating the impact of environmental

and institutional support.

Fire hazards such as flammable materials, faulty electrical wiring, and unsafe

household practices (e.g., unattended cooking, indoor smoking) are major contributors to

residential fires (NFPA, 2021). Awareness and elimination of these hazards are

foundational in fire prevention (IAFC, 2023). The availability and proper maintenance of

tools like fire extinguishers, alarms, and smoke detectors are essential. Communities with

functional safety equipment are better positioned to control fires early (FEMA, 2020), yet

many barangays lack such tools or fail to maintain them (DILG, 2021). Timely

evacuation, knowledge of exit routes, and participation in drills greatly enhance response

effectiveness (NFPA, 2022). Unfortunately, the absence of regular training leads to panic

and confusion during emergencies (Fire Protection Research Foundation, 2020). Daily

habits like unplugging appliances, avoiding overloaded sockets, and proper storage of

flammables reflect individual awareness and behavior. These actions are shaped by

education campaigns and direct experience (IFSS, 2020; WHO, 2021). Policies and codes

provide a legal foundation for fire safety. Compliance with drills, inspections, and

construction standards promotes readiness, but enforcement gaps persist in some

barangays (DILG, 2019; ADPC, 2021), limiting their impact.

 Fire Safety Measure
1. Fire Hazards
2. Fire Safety
equipment
3. Fire Evacuation and
Demographic Profile
Emergency Plan
4. Practice and
behaviors related to
Fire Safety
5. Fire Regulation and
Policies
 Figure 1. Schematic Diagram of the Study

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine the level of awareness among residents of Brgy.

Tinago, Ozamis City regarding fire safety measures. Additionally, this study seeks to

identify possible recommendations to enhance public awareness and preparedness for

fire-related emergencies.

Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following questions:

1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of:

1.1. Age

1.2. Sex

1.3. Status

1.4. Educational Attainment

2. What is the level of awareness on fire safety measures among the residents of

brgy. Tinago, Ozamis city in terms of:

2.1. Fire Hazards;

2.2. Fire Safety Equipment;

2.3. Fire Evacuation and Emergency Response;

2.4. Practices and Behaviors Related to Fire Safety;

2.5. Fire Regulations and Policies

3. Is there any significant difference as to the demographic profile of the

respondents and their level of awareness on fire safety measures?

4. Based on the result, what action plan may propose?

Significance of the Study

The findings of this study will be valuable to the following groups:

Residents of Brgy. Tinago, Ozamis City. This study will help residents

understand the importance of fire safety measures in their homes. By

increasing awareness, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent fire-

related incidents, ensuring the safety of their families and properties.

Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). The result of this study can assist the BFP in

assessing the current level of fire safety awareness among residents. This

can guide them in designing more effective fire prevention programs,

community education campaigns, and response strategies to reduce fire

hazards in residential areas.

Local Government Officials. The findings can help policymakers and local

government units develop or enhance fire safety regulations.

Understanding the level of awareness among residents can lead to the

implementation of fire safety ordinances, the improvement of emergency

preparedness programs, and the allocation of resources for fire prevention

initiatives.

Barangay Officials. This study can serve as a basis for barangay leaders in

strengthening their fire prevention and disaster risk reduction initiatives.

They can organize fire drills, conduct awareness seminars, and

 colTinagorate with fire safety agencies to ensure that residents are well-

informed and prepared for fire-related emergencies.

Future Researchers. This study will serve as a reference for future research on

fire safety awareness, disaster risk management, and community

preparedness. Researchers can build upon this study by exploring

additional variables, different locations, or alternative methodologies to

further expand knowledge in this field.

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study focuses on assessing the level of awareness among residents regarding

fire safety measures in Brgy. Tinago, Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental. The study will

examine the residents' knowledge of fire hazards, preparedness for fire emergencies, and

familiarity with preventive measures such as fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and

emergency evacuation plans. The findings of this research will be applicable only to the

selected location and may not be generalized to other areas with different fire safety

conditions. This study will analyze the effectiveness of specific fire prevention

technologies or the actual incidence of fire-related emergencies within the study area.

Additionally, it will be conducted during the first semester of the Academic Year 2024–

2025.

Research Methodology

This section will discuss the various elements of the research process appropriate

to the study. It includes the research design, setting, participants, instruments, instrument

validation, data gathering procedure, and data analysis.

Research Design. The proponents will employ a descriptive clausal-comparative

research design to examine the differences and similarities in fire safety

awareness among residents. According to Manstein (2023), descriptive

research aims to systematically describe a phenomenon, behavior, or

characteristic of a population through the collection and analysis of data.

Specifically, survey research—a common method under the descriptive

approach—involves gathering information from a sample of individuals

using structured questionnaires. This method is effective for obtaining data

on attitudes, behaviors, and practices, and can be conducted via

interviews, printed forms, or digital platforms. Surveys are valued for their

efficiency and cost-effectiveness in reaching large populations. The

reliability and validity of the data largely depend on the clarity, specificity,

and relevance of the survey questions.

Research Setting. This study will be conducted in Barangay Tinago, Ozamiz

City, Misamis Occidental, a residential area located in the northern part of

Mindanao, Philippines. Ozamiz City is a component city situated along

Panguil Bay and serves as a key urban center in the province of Misamis

Occidental. Barangay Tinago is one of the city’s barangays, characterized

by a mix of semi-urban and residential communities.

Research Respondents. To ensure a fair and representative assessment of

community awareness, the proponents will employ a stratified random

sampling method with proportional allocation. This approach involves

dividing the population of Brgy. Tinago, Ozamis City, into distinct

 subgroups or strata based on specific. In this study, the puro will be

considered as stratum. Subsequently, samples are randomly selected from

each stratum in proportion to their presence in the overall population. This

method ensures that each subgroup is adequately represented in the

sample, enhancing the accuracy and generalizability of the study findings.

Proportional allocation is particularly effective in reflecting the true

composition of the population, thereby minimizing sampling bias and

improving the reliability of the results.

Purok Population Sample Size

Purok 1 436 65
Purok 2 265 39
Purok 3 165 25
Purok 4 285 42
Purok 5 324 48
Purok 6 395 59
Purok 7 338 50
Total 2208 328

Research Instrument. The proponents will utilize a researcher-made survey

questionnaire to collect essential data from the respondents. To ensure the

reliability and accuracy of the instrument, the questionnaire will be

carefully examined by the research adviser, research editor, statistician,

and instructor before distribution. This validation process will help ensure

that the questionnaire is capable of gathering precise and relevant

information regarding the residents’ level of awareness of fire safety

measures.
Validation of Instrument. The survey questionnaire will undergo a validation

process conducted by the research adviser and research editor to ensure its

validity and reliability. Before the final data collection, suggestions and

feedback from experts will be incorporated to refine the instrument,

ensuring clarity and appropriateness in assessing the respondents’

awareness of fire safety measures.

Data Gathering Procedure. The researchers will formulate guide questions to

assess the level of awareness among residents of Brgy. Tinago, Ozamis

City regarding fire safety measures. These questions will be refined to

ensure clarity and ease of understanding for the respondents. Prior to

conducting the study, the researchers will seek permission from the

Barangay Captain and secure a letter of approval from the Institute of

Criminal Justice Education (ICJE), which will be duly noted by the Dean

of ICJE and the Thesis Adviser. The researchers will personally distribute

the questionnaires to the respondents, ensuring that each question is

clearly explained as needed. After completion, the researchers will collect

the questionnaires for further analysis.

Data Analysis. The collected data will be analyzed and summarized using

frequency count, percentage, and weighted mean. The researchers will

determine the frequency and percentage to profile the respondents, which

will help in the relevant interpretation of the data. The mean will be used

to determine the average response of the participants for each indicator

related to their awareness of fire safety measures. To enhance data

 presentation, tables and charts will be used for a clearer and more

comprehensive analysis.

TABLE 1

Rating Scale

Numerical Value Hypothetical Mean Interpretation Implication

Range
4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree Fully Aware

3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree Aware

2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree Slightly Aware

1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Not Aware at all

Verbal Interpretation

3.26 – 4.00 – The respondents strongly agree on the indicators which signifies that the

respondents are fully aware of the fire safety measures.

2.51 – 3.25 – The respondents agree on the indicators which signifies that the respondents

are aware of fire safety measures.

1.76 – 2.50 – The respondents strongly agree on the indicators which signifies that the

respondents are slightly aware of the importance of fire safety measures.

1.00 – 1.75 – The respondents strongly agree on the indicators which signifies that the

respondents are not aware at all of the fire safety measures.

Ethical Considerations

The proponents will consider the respondents' voluntary participation in the

research for ethical reasons. Participation in the interview or data gathering must be

voluntary, and every respondent has the right to withdraw anytime. The respondents can

withdraw from the study at any stage if they so wish. The proponents will also ensure that
no offensive, discriminatory, or other unacceptable language is used when formulating

the questionnaire/interview/focus group questions. All respondents will be assured that

their answers would be held confidential by the proponents and will not be publishing or

publicize any of their personal information. So, this data gathering process will be

conducted as discrete as possible by all members of the research group throughout the

data gathering and analysis process.

Trustworthiness of the Study

This study was conducted with utmost dependability and rigor. To ensure the

reliability of the interpretation, the researcher engaged in consultations with experts and

professionals in the field. This deliberate effort aimed to validate and corroborate the data

collected from the participants, thereby fortifying the trustworthiness and credibility of

the study’s interpretations.

Definition of Terms

The following terms are theoretically and operationally defined for a clearer

understanding.

Awareness. This term refers to the knowledge or understanding an individual has about a

specific topic or issue. In this study, the researcher utilized the word awareness to

describe the extent to which residents of Brgy. Tinago recognize and comprehend

the importance of fire safety measures in preventing fire-related incidents.

Residents. This term refers to individuals who permanently or temporarily live within a

specific area. In this study, the researcher utilized the word residents to refer to

the people living in Brgy. Tinago, Ozamis City, who are the primary respondents

in assessing their awareness of fire safety measures.

Fire Safety Measures. This term refers to the preventive actions, protocols, and systems

designed to reduce the risk of fire hazards and ensure safety in residential areas.

In this study, the researcher utilized the term fire safety measures to describe the

specific precautions and emergency preparedness practices that residents apply to

protect their households from fire-related risks.

Household. This term refers to a residential unit where a group of people, typically a

family, lives together. In this study, the researcher utilized the term household to

identify the specific living spaces of the respondents and examine their fire safety

practices and awareness levels.

 Questionnaire
Tangub City Global College
Maloro, Tangub City

LEVEL OF AWARENESS AMONG RESIDENTS ON FIRE SAFETY MEASURES

IN BRGY. TINAGO, OZAMIS CITY

Survey Questionnaire

Name (Optional): ________________ Gender:__ ___ Age:____

Directions: Put a check (✓) inside the box to indicate your level of trust to Philippine
National Police on safety and security.

Rating Scale:

4 – Strongly Agree 3 - Agree 2 - Disagree 1 – Strongly Disagree

Indicators 4 3 2 1

Fire Hazards

1. I’m aware that faulty electrical wiring can cause

fires.
(Nasayud ko nga ang depektibong electrical
wiring makapahinabo ug sunog.)
2. I’m aware that LPG tanks and gas leaks are
serious fire hazards.
(Nasayud ko nga ang LPG tanks ug gas leaks
delikado kaayo ug makapahinabo ug sunog.)
3. I’m aware that leaving appliances plugged in can
increase the risk of fire.
(Nasayud ko nga ang pagbiyang nakasaksak ang
mga appliances makapataas sa risgo sa sunog.)
 4. I’m aware that overloading extension cords can
cause overheating and fires.
(Nasayud ko nga ang pag-overload sa extension
cords makapahinabo ug kainit ug sunog.)
5. I’m aware that unattended open flames, such as
candles and stoves, can lead to fire accidents.
(Nasayud ko nga ang pagbiya sa mga siga sama
sa kandila ug kalan nga walay nagbantay
makapahinabo ug sunog.)

Fire Safety Equipment

1. I’m aware that a fire extinguisher is used to
control small fires before they spread.
(Nasayud ko nga ang fire extinguisher magamit sa
pagpugong sa gagmayng sunog aron kini dili
mokatag.)
2. I’m aware that smoke detectors can help alert
people during the early stages of a fire.
(Nasayud ko nga ang smoke detector makatabang
sa pagpasidaan sa mga tawo sa unang yugto sa
sunog.)
3. I’m aware that fire extinguishers should be placed
in accessible areas at home.
(Nasayud ko nga ang fire extinguisher
kinahanglan ibutang sa dali ra maabtan nga lugar
sa balay.)
4. I’m aware that fire safety equipment needs to be
checked and maintained regularly.
(Nasayud ko nga ang mga fire safety equipment
kinahanglan kanunay i-check ug i-maintain.)
5. I’m aware that knowing how to use fire safety
equipment is essential in emergencies.
(Nasayud ko nga ang kahibalo sa paggamit sa fire
safety equipment importante kaayo panahon sa
emerhensiya.)
Fire Evacuation and Emergency Response
1. I’m aware that every household should have a fire
evacuation plan.
(Nasayud ko nga ang matag panimalay
kinahanglan adunay fire evacuation plan.)
2. I’m aware that emergency hotlines must be readily
available and known to all family members.
(Nasayud ko nga ang emergency hotlines
kinahanglan dali ra ma-access ug hibaloan sa
tanan miyembro sa pamilya.)
3. I’m aware that participating in fire drills helps
 prepare people for real emergencies.
(Nasayud ko nga ang pag-apil sa fire drills
makatabang sa pagpangandam sa tinuod nga
emerhensiya.)
4. I’m aware that staying calm and acting quickly is
important during a fire incident.
(Nasayud ko nga ang pag-apil sa fire drills
makatabang sa pagpangandam sa tinuod nga
emerhensiya.)
5. I’m aware that knowing basic first aid is helpful in
responding to fire injuries.
(Nasayud ko nga ang kahibalo sa basic first aid
makatabang sa pag-atiman sa mga samad tungod
sa sunog.)
Practices and Behaviors Related to Fire Safety
1. I’m aware that unplugging appliances when not in
use reduces fire risk.
(Nasayud ko nga ang pag-unplug sa mga
appliances kon wala gamita makapamenos sa
risgo sa sunog.)
2. I’m aware that flammable items should be kept
away from heat sources.
(Nasayud ko nga ang mga butang nga dali
masunog kinahanglan ibulag sa mga kainit nga
tinubdan.)
3. I’m aware that extension cords should not be
overloaded with multiple devices.
(Nasayud ko nga ang extension cords dili angay i-
overload ug daghang devices.)
4. I’m aware that routine home inspections help
detect fire risks early.
(Nasayud ko nga ang extension cords dili angay i-
overload ug daghang devices.)
5. I’m aware that children must be educated about
fire safety practices.
(Nasayud ko nga ang mga bata kinahanglan
tudluan sa mga pamaagi sa kaluwasan batok sa
sunog.)
Fire Regulations and Policies
1. I’m aware that the Fire Code of the Philippines
outlines safety measures for households and
buildings.
(Nasayud ko nga ang Fire Code of the Philippines
naglatid sa mga pamaagi sa kaluwasan sa mga
panimalay ug building.)
2. I’m aware that violating fire safety rules can result
 in legal penalties or fines.
(Nasayud ko nga ang pagsupak sa mga lagda sa
sunog mahimong hinungdan sa legal nga silot o
multa.)
3. I’m aware that the Bureau of Fire Protection is
responsible for enforcing fire safety laws.
(Nasayud ko nga ang Bureau of Fire Protection
maoy responsable sa pagpangpatuman sa mga
balaod sa sunog.)
4. I’m aware that fire inspections are conducted to
ensure compliance with fire safety standards.
(Nasayud ko nga ang fire inspections ginahimo
aron masiguro nga nasunod ang mga fire safety
standards.)
5. I’m aware that local government units organize
fire safety awareness campaigns and seminars.
(Nasayud ko nga ang lokal nga panggamhanan
naga-organisa ug mga kampanya ug seminar
kabahin sa fire safety awareness.)
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