Evaluation of Proactive Fire Disaster Measures by Property Managers in Low-Rise Residential Houses in Minna, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out to evaluate proactive fire disaster measure in low - rise residential properties. The objectives amongst others include establishing the occurrence of fire disaster in low rise residential properties in Minna and examining the measures put in place to reduce the extent of loss and the level of preparedness and or awareness amongst managers and occupants of residential properties against fire disaster. Primary and secondary data were collected from the Niger state fire service, the property managers and the occupants of the residential apartments. A total of 200 questionnaires were administered using stratified random sampling among occupants of low-rise residential buildings. A focused group discussion was also conducted with Officers of fire service. It was found that although the awareness of fire and its devastating effect is known, no proactive measure is in place to mitigate fire disaster. It was recommended that there is need to put in place proactive measures like the use of fire alarm, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in residential buildings. The capacity of the fire service must also be revamped for effective service delivery.