Vulnerability of urban primary and secondary schools to fire hazards: a qualitative study in Ibadan, Nigeria

The objectives of this study are to identify direct vulnerability factors to fire hazards in selected schools in Ibidan, determine preparedness levels against fire hazards, compare fire hazard vulnerability levels between public and private schools in the study area, determine risk recovery strategies, and examine the likely challenges of ensuring fire safety among school managers and administrators.

Findings were discussed in three major headings including direct vulnerability factors, preparedness factors and recovery measures. Based on the findings, it was concluded that public schools in the study area were more vulnerable to fire hazard compared to private schools. The immediate implication is that fire 6 incidents in these schools would most likely account for high casuality figures in terms of lives and property. It is important to state that although private schools are less vulnerable to fire hazards compared to public schools, fire incidents in private schools can still have major adverse impact on lives and property. The findings of the study have the potential to create awareness among schools on fire hazards and empower them to reduce their vulnerability to fire hazards. Secondary education policy makers can also use the findings to inform policy formulation.