Abstract:
This study investigated the perceptions of Sekondi-Takoradi residents in the Western Region,
Ghana of the firefighting operations of the Ghana Nation Fire Service (GNFS) in the Metropolis.
Being underpinned by the theories of perception, the study specifically sought to investigate how
the residents perceive the firefighting operations of GNFS and examine measures needed to
improve their operations. Using quantitative approach, survey was used to collect data from 120
respondents through purposive and systematic sampling procedures. The SPSS was used to
analyze data gathered through frequencies, percentages and descriptive statistics. The study
found that most of the residents were of the perception that the firefighting operations of GNFS
in the Metropolis were unsatisfactory because of their slow response to calls on fire outbreaks.
With the highest mean score of 4.95, it was revealed that the residents were of the opinion that
availability of fire hydrant at vantage points was the most significant means by which GNFS
could improve upon their firefighting operations. The next significant measure needed to
improve their operations was the use of fire tenders with higher water capacities. The study
therefore recommends that management of the GNFS must collaborate with Motor, Traffic and
Transportation Unit of Ghana Police Service to put in place measures that will control presence
of heavy traffic during fire outbreaks. This will ensure that there is always swift response to fire
outbreaks so as to protect and preserve lives and properties during fire outbreaks.
Description:
A DISSERTATION IN THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AND
MEDIA STUDIES, FACULTY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES EDUCATION
AND COMMUNICATION, SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF GRADUATE
STUDIES, UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA, IN PARTIAL
FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR AWARD OF THE MASTER
OF ARTS IN COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA STUDIES DEGREE
DECEMBER, 2018