PREPAREDNESS OF BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM IN BARANGAY 176, CALOOCAN CITY

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the capabilities of Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel assigned in Barangay 176, Caloocan City in responding to various emergencies. It specifically assesses their effectiveness in firefighting operations, emergency medical services (EMS), special operations, and disaster management. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study involved active BFP personnel and employed a questionnaire checklist grounded in the BFP’s communication protocols, evacuation procedures, and resource availability. The study adopted a descriptive research design to provide a systematic and accurate portrayal of emergency preparedness in Barangay 176, Caloocan City. A total of sixty (60) participants were involved, consisting of twenty (20) Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel and forty (40) residents. Using purposive sampling, respondents were selected based on their relevant knowledge and direct experience with emergencies. Data collection was conducted through structured survey questionnaires that included sections on demographic profiles, levels of preparedness—focusing on communication, evacuation procedures, and available supplies—challenges encountered, and recommended solutions. To ensure validity and reliability, the research instrument was reviewed and validated by a research adviser, BFP personnel, a statistician, and an English teacher. The demographic data of the 60 respondents revealed that the majority were male (55%) and aged between 42 and 50 years old (35%). Among the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel, 70% were identified as Junior Officers, with 58.33% having served for more than a decade. The evaluation of communication protocols between the BFP and the Search and Rescue (SAR) team produced a low mean score of 1.71, indicating ineffective communication practices. Key concerns included irregular updates, undefined roles, and insufficient communication tools. Evacuation preparedness received a similarly low score of 1.72, reflecting inadequate planning and vague role assignments. Logistics and resource management scored the lowest at 1.68, pointing to serious deficiencies in supply availability and access to personal protective equipment (PPE). The most critical issues identified by respondents were limited community awareness, lack of essential resources, and weak communication infrastructure. To strengthen emergency preparedness and response, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) should implement ongoing training programs focused on crisis management, firefighting skills, and leadership enhancement. Promoting fire safety awareness through consistent community outreach and education must also be a priority. Barangay officials are encouraged to organize regular emergency drills and disaster preparedness initiatives to improve public readiness. Specifically, in Barangay 176, it is essential to ensure clear, accessible evacuation routes and provide targeted education on fire prevention and survival measures.