disaster management chennai

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CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 DISASTER

United Nations defined disasters as ‘a serious disruption of the functioning of a

community or a society causing widespread human, material, economic and environmental

losses which exceeds the ability of the affected community /society to cope using its own

resources.

WHO defines Disaster as "any occurrence that causes damag1e, ecological

disruption, loss of human life, deterioration of health and health services, on a scale

sufficient to warrant an extraordinary response from outside the affected community or

area.”

Disaster literally means ‘Catastrophe’, ‘Calamity’, or ‘Aapada’. The Second

Wednesday of every October during the Decade observed as “World Disaster Reduction

Day”. National Day for Disaster Reduction was observed on 11 October. Theme for the

year 2000 was “Community Participation and Public Awareness”. The United Nations

observed the Nineties as the “International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction”

(IDNDR), in order to focus on International Initiatives for minimizing the adverse impact

of natural calamities particularly in the developed countries like India. The period of 1970

alone accounted for death of over 1 million persons and destruction of property over 46

billion dollars by Cyclones, Hurricanes, Tornados, Earthquakes, Floods and other disasters

(UNDRO, 1979). In Past Century, more than 10 million people have died due to Floods,

Earthquakes and Tropical Storms (United Nation, 1983).

Man Made Disasters as a result of Toxic Chemicals; Explosions, Fire Incidents;

High Rising Building’s Collapse; And Hazardous Waste etc. have been the cause of many

deaths and casualties. The increase in Chemical Processes and Manufacturing Industryinevitably carries the risk of accidents. Enrico Fermi and his associates in the year 1944 at

the University of Chicago developed the First Atomic Reactor and when proved that chain

reaction was in fact a reality the world introduced to new and terrifying dimensions, in the

cause and scope of disasters. The Nuclear Bomb dropped in Hiroshima and Nagasaki

in1945, since then the threat of Nuclear War is ever increasing (Mass Casualties

Management, 1983). Increasing Nuclear Power Plants the world over inevitably carries the

risk of accidents like manifested in the Three Mile Island and Chernobyl.



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The earth has been an unstable proposition throughout its existence. Man who

entered the scene has been exploring during his short existence to unravel the various

mysteries that are mysteries till date. These mysteries understood by and confined to the

intellectual community. However, when the victims of the mysteries are the people then

they need to know the mysteries and the impact the mysteries can have on them. As the

proverb says, “Knowing your strengths and your foes’ strengths is half the battle won”.

Thus, the need of the hour is awareness about the disasters and the ways of managing

them.

1.2 DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Disaster Management can be defined as the organization and management of

resources and responsibilities for dealing with all humanitarian aspects of emergencies, in

particular preparedness, response and recovery in order to lessen the impact of

disasters.The field of Disaster Management deals with all four stages of a disaster:

mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

1.2.1 Mitigation:

Mitigation is the actions considered long before an emergency occurs and includes

any activity aimed at reducing the probability of damage from a disaster. Mitigation

strengthens the structure of you home to protect it from hurricanes, floods, and other

natural disasters. Mitigation helps business and industry avoid damages to their facilities

and remain operational in the face of catastrophe.

1.2.2 Preparedness:

Preparedness is the action intended to save lives before and during a natural

disaster. It ensures people are ready for a disaster and respond to it effectively.

Preparedness requires figuring out what you will do if essential services break down,

developing a disaster plan, and practicing the plan. Preparedness activities includeforecasting and warning systems, stocking an emergency preparedness kit with supplies,

and knowing where your nearest emergency shelter is.

1.2.3 Response:

Response occurs after the onset of a disaster. Response intended to provide

emergency assistance for casualties, including search and rescue, shelters, and medical

care, to reduce the probability or extent of secondary damage through such measures as

anti-looting security patrols, and to reduce damage by efforts such as sandbagging against

floodwaters.

http://www.ifrc.org/what/disasters/preparing/index.asp

http://www.ifrc.org/what/disasters/responding/index.asp

http://www.ifrc.org/what/disasters/recovering/index.asp

http://www.ifrc.org/what/disasters/preparing/index.asp

http://www.ifrc.org/what/disasters/responding/index.asp

http://www.ifrc.org/what/disasters/recovering/index.asp



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1.2.4 Recovery:

Recovery is the activities continue immediately following a disaster. The purpose

of recovery activities is to return all systems and services back to normal. Local

communities and State governments can do what they can to bring about recovery. When

those resources are gone, Federal loans and grants can help. Funds are used to rebuild

homes, businesses, and public facilities, to clear debris and repair roads and bridges, and to

restore water, sewer, and other essential services.

It is important for all of us to know the steps each of us can take before a disaster strikes to

reduce the loss of lives and property.

Figure 1.2 stages of disaster management

Source: www.raddningsverket.se/templates/SRSA(swedish recue service agency)

1.2.5 Paradigm:In recent years, organizations involved in Disaster Management have shifted their

efforts and resources from a post-disaster approach (response + recovery) to pre-disaster

and pro-active efforts (mitigation + preparedness). The shift is the result of the realization

that by minimizing the impact of natural and man-made hazards onto communities,

damages and loss will be lessened, thus reducing the recovery time and cost.

http://www.raddningsverket.se/templates/SRSA(swedish




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1.3 FIRE RELATED MAN-MADE DISASTERS

The following are the major fire related man-made disasters considered in this study

• Fire at home

• Fire at workplace/ multi-storeyed building

• Bomb blast & Explosion

• Industrial explosion

• Accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material

1.4 Why fire related disasters?

The reasons for considering fire as a major concern are the following:

1.4.1 Fire is FAST! There is little time!

In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can get completely out of control and turn

into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house. In minutes, a

house can be engulfed in flames. Most fires occur in the home when people are asleep. If

you wake up to a fire, you will not have time to grab valuables because fire spreads too

quickly and the smoke is too thick. There is only time to escape.

1.4.2 Fire is HOT! Heat is more threatening than flames.

A fire's heat alone can kill. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor

level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super hot air will scorch your lungs.

This heat can melt clothes to your skin. In five minutes, a room can get so hot that

everything in it ignites at once and this is called flashover.

1.4.3 Fire is DARK! Fire is not bright, its pitch black.

Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness. If you

wake up to a fire you may be blinded, disoriented and unable to find your way around the

home you've lived in for years.

1.4.4 Fire is DEADLY!

Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire uses up the oxygen

you need and produces smoke and poisonous gases that kill. Breathing even small amounts

of smoke and toxic gases can make you drowsy, disoriented and short of breath. The

odorless, colorless fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames reach your door.

You may not wake up in time to escape.

Source: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/fswy6.pdf



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Table 1.5 Statistics of fire related accidents in Chennai 2008

Total fire accidents

Small fire accidents

Medium fire accidents

Serious fire accidents

17,433

16,444

544

445

Total rescue calls (non-fire) 10,747

Property lost Rs. 53.17 Crores (approximately)

Property saved Rs. 446.56 Crores (approximately)

No. of lives lost in fire calls 69 No. of lives saved 139

No. of lives lost in Rescue calls 2,110

No. of lives saved 16,088

Source: www.tnfrs.tn.nic.in (Tamil Nadu Fire and rescue service)

1.6 ORGANISATION PROFILE

Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) is a private, not



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for profit research corporation registered under Section 25 of the Companies Act 1956,

founded in 2005. CSTEP's mandate and vision is to undertake world-class research and

analysis in chosen areas of engineering, science and technology and their intersection with

policy and decision-making. Expertise includes materials science, information and

communications technologies, energy and strategic domains, as well as in the use of data

and computational modeling. CSTEP is Bangalore based organization and its founders

include some of India's foremost scientists and scholars. CSTEP performs leading-edge

research in issues of science and technology in human development, economic growth and

security.

Technology is a vital ingredient for economic and human development. However,

technology alone is not the solution; its success and relevance to society depend on the

economic and policy environments. Harnessing technology well requires an integrated

assessment of science and technology along with issues of economics, policy and

regulation. Such interdisciplinary research is the signature of CSTEP.

All policy requires detailed and objective analysis but technology policy analysis

requires both domain expertise in conventional disciplines such as science, engineering,

mathematics, statistics, economics and social sciences as well as inter-disciplinary skills,

which can include simulation and modeling. Some of the quantitative tools available to

help guide policy and decision-makers are optimization, operations research, dynamic

programming, machine learning, stochastic analysis, cost-benefit analysis, probabilistic

risk analysis and game theory. CSTEP researchers employ and develop such scientific

tools and models applied to policy research and analysis.

Initial funding for CSTEP has generously come from the SSN Education and

Charitable Trust, with energy-related work continuing to be funded from this source. In

September 2008, CSTEP received a grant from the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, providing

funding for our next generation infrastructure laboratory.

1.6.1 Research



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CSTEP focuses its research on several options such as bio-fuels, solar energy,

nuclear power, coal gasification and liquefaction. Research involves technology modeling,

economic analysis and life cycle assessment. CSTEP researchers also focus on assessment

of natural gas supply and pricing options. The Indian power sector requires significant

upgrading and reforms, in particular power transmission and distribution. This is crucial to

reduce the losses and improve efficiency. CSTEP has outstanding reports in the political

economy of power sector reforms. CSTEP professionals are also leading the charge

towards innovative IT based solutions for a state of the art “smart-grid”.

1.6.2 Projects

The following are the projects undertaken in

(i) Solar thermal modeling

(ii) Karnataka Esscom evaluation

(iii) Bescom new equipment evaluation

(iv) IT in power sector

(v) Nuclear report

(vi) UCG conference

(vii) Slum evolution in Bangalore

(viii) Disaster management

(ix) Innovative India

(x) Institutional aspects of infrastructure

(xi) Serving the poor to serve rich in health care

(xii) Simulation and game development: energy, agricultural supply chain,

industrial clusters

(xiii) Regional/ rural air link

1.7 LITERATURE REVIEW1.7.1 Awareness



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"Knowledge and preparation" are the keys to survival in the event of a catastrophe,

from an annoying power outage to TEOTWAWKI (The End Of The World As We Know

It). Do you want to be prepared? Or do you want to be surprised? Make disaster

preparations at home. Survivalism is a state of mind. (Times of India article no.1318386)

For any management method to be successful, it requires mass participation, which not

only gives strength but also makes the task very simple. Therefore, for effective

management of disasters in India, which is one among the most populous countries in the

world, it is very important that we bring about mass participation. But, how do we bring

about mass participation in a country like India? The solution would be to make people

aware about disasters and educate them to know is their responsibility during such a

disaster.

To prepare communities take care of themselves in the aftermath of a major disaster

when first responders who provide emergency services are not available to provide

immediate assistance is an important aspect of disaster management.(Wei,2001)

1.7.1.1 Article of department of civil engineering Anna University “GIS approach for

disaster management through awareness” - an overview

This article is about the importance of awareness among the people about disaster

management and the GIS approach for effective disaster management.

Awareness facilitates

• Co-operation between the government, the intellectual community, and public

• Individual preparedness before, during or after a disaster

• The tendency to help the victims of the disaster

• Compliance with the laws and legislations for disaster control

1.7.1.2 Integrated community-based disaster management program in Taiwan: A

case study of Shang-A Village

Taiwan has long made efforts to increase community emergency response

capability, due to its vulnerability to earthquakes, typhoons, landslides and debris flows.

Not until recent major natural disasters, such as the 1999 Chi-Chi Earthquake, Typhoon

Toraji and Typhoon Nari, has the government reformed its policy toward empowering the

community to take actions in hazard mitigation, emergency preparedness and emergency

response. A new initiative, Integrated Community-Based Disaster Management Program

(ICBDM), was launched in 2001 by the Executive Yuan to achieve the goal of

strengthening community resistance. The paper, taking Shang-An Village as an example,



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describes Taiwan's new community-based disaster management program. Through a

participatory process, community residents have learned how to analyze vulnerable

conditions, discover problems, develop solutions and establish an organization to

implement disaster management tasks. Further, basic response training courses and a

disaster scenario were held in order to improve their emergency response capability. Based

on the case study, a phased process, including initiation, assessment, planning and practice,

is generalized.

1.7.1.3 Research paper on “Awareness of storm surge risk in coastal community on

the north sea” by Sonja D. Hofmann, Gunilla Kaiser Karlsruhe University 2007.

The risk awareness and preparedness are seemed to be important parameter in

integrated risk management scheme today. Regarding the risk of storm-surges, an

assessment of perception and the status of personal preparedness of the people are

addressed in the interview study in a coastal community in North Sea. The major points of

discussion are the relation between risk awareness preparedness and self-responsibility in

disaster preparedness scheme and role of media. The conclusion include that the trust in

coastal defense authorities is very high which might influence by the local media

presentation of dike safety.

1.7.2 Preparedness

Disasters disrupt hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Each disaster has

lasting effects, both to people and property. Being prepared can reduce fear, anxiety and

losses that accompany disasters. Communities, families, and individuals should know what

to do in the event of a fire and where to seek shelter. People can also reduce the impact of

disasters and sometimes the danger completely. Every citizen in this country is part of a

national emergency management system that is all about protection- protecting people and

property from all types of hazard. Most of the emergencies handled at local level puttremendous responsibility on people to handle the disaster situation effectively.

Public readiness index(PRI) a first of its kind tool for individuals, families and

communities to determine and evaluate their readiness for emergencies ranging from

natural disasters to terrorist attack(the council for excellence US). The public readiness

measured in knowledge elements and behavior elements gives the preparedness of an

individual to a disaster.

1.7.2.1 Article from American Red Cross National Fire Prevention Association (1997)



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This article gives details about how an individual can be prepared to handle a fire

related disaster. It also provides details about personalised fire related disaster plan.

1.7.2.2 Article from Times of India no.1318386

This article gives details about the "Disaster Supplies Kit." developed by the

Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross. This supplies kit

give details about the list of items to be stored at home to handle the disaster situation

effectively.

1.7.2.3 UNDP article on disaster management methodology for Assam

The investment on preparedness, prevention, and mitigation is more cost effective

compared to expenditure on relief and rehabilitation. The basic characteristic of disaster

management is proactive prevention, preparedness and mitigation rather than the prevalent

reactive relief and rehabilitation approach. The article gives details about the preparedness

plan of the community in grass root level.

1.7.3 Risk perception

The perception of risk, the experience and the knowledge of the people are the

basis for the behavior in disaster situations (Kaiser et al., 2004). For the development of

better strategies in disaster management, it is thus important to be aware of these factors.

Human behavior depends on perception, experience, and knowledge. In order to be able to

develop effective information and communication strategies and policies on disasters, the

perception and evaluation of these risks and influencing factors to be

known(RENIN,1989,PLAPP,2001).

Ammon (2001) revealed that developing risk management plan consist of three

steps 1) identifying risk 2) classifying the risk 3) selecting methods of treatment for risk.

He pointed out that the most important step is risk identification. When the risk managers

identify risk, they should understand the perception of risk in general public constitutes the proper identification of risk. For the development of effective risk communication policies,

the risk perception of the targeted group as well as the factors influencing risk perception

should be known. (PLAPP, 2001, p.2)

Risk is defined as the likelihood that an individual will experience the effect of

danger (short Jr 1984).According to Raynor and Cantor, risk is being consisting of the

probability of an adverse event and the magnitude of its consequences. Rosa (2003:56)

define risk as “a situation or an event where something of human value (sometimes the

human themselves) is at stake and where the outcome is uncertain.



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Risk perception is the subjective assessment of a specified type of accident

happening and how concerned we are with the consequences. Person who have previous

experience with the hazard have greater perceived probability of occurrence. (Dongo Rémi

KOUABENAN1, Marc GANDIT1 & Sandrine CAROLY)

1.7.3.1 Factors predicting risk perception:

KNOWLEDGE

SOCIAL TRUST RISK PERCEPTION DEMOGRAPHIC

FACTORS

EXPERIENCE

Source: Lao & Tao

In this study, trust, experience and demographic factors were considered. Social trust is the

willingness to rely on those who have the responsibility for making decision and taking

actions related to the management of technology, the environment, medicine or other

realms of public health and safety. (Siegrist et al, 2000, p.354).Social trust has been found

to influence risk perception. Higher trust predicts lower risk perception. (Siegrist et al,

2000, p.354).

Richardson, Sorensen and Soderstrom (1987) indicated that experience is a factor

that determines how sensitive people are to risk. People with great experience of constant

and extreme risk are less concerned. Person who have previous experience with the hazard

have greater perceived probability of occurrence. (Dongo Rémi KOUABENAN

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, MarcGANDIT1 & Sandrine Caroly).

The demographic factors considered in this study were age, gender, education, and

income/year.

CHAPTER 2

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY



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2.1 Need for the study

Recently various types of disasters are striking India in general and Chennai in

particular. These include natural and man-made disasters. There are different types of man-

made disasters, which can be managed using disaster management planning. Chennai

being densely populated city and highly industrialized, it is more prone to fire related

disasters. Risk awareness, personal preparedness and risk perception seemed to be

important parameters in disaster management and it is perceived to be low in Chennai.

2.2 Scope of the study

The scope of the study is confined to fire related man-made disasters and specific

segments of the population of Chennai. The study focuses on fire related disasters confined

to bomb blast & explosion, industrial explosion, fire at home, fire at work place/multi

storied building and accidents of vehicles carrying hazardous material. The specific

segments of Chennai population used in this study are students, homemakers, people

working in multistoried building, people working in ordinary building and

shopkeepers/businessman.

2.3 Objectives

• To determine the awareness among the people of Chennai on fire related disaster

management.

• To determine the preparedness of the people of Chennai on fire related disaster

management.

• To identify the risk perception of people of Chennai on fire related disasters.

• To analyze the factors influencing risk perception of the people of Chennai on fire

related disasters.

2.4 Hypothesis

• There is no association between risk perception of people of Chennai on accidents

of vehicle carrying hazardous material and the trust of people on civil authorities of

Chennai.

• There is no association between risk perception of people of Chennai on industrial

explosion and the trust of people on civil authorities of Chennai.

• There is no association between risk perception of people of Chennai on fire at

home and the trust of people on civil authorities of Chennai.



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multi-storied building and the trust of people on civil authorities of Chennai.

• There is no association between risk perception of people of Chennai on bomb blast

& explosion and the trust of people on civil authorities of Chennai.


of vehicle carrying hazardous material and the experience of people to fire related

disasters.


explosion and the experience of people to fire related disasters.


home and the experience of people to fire related disasters.


multi-storied building and the experience of people to fire related disasters.


& explosion and the experience of people to fire related disasters.


of vehicle carrying hazardous material and the gender of people to fire related

disasters.


explosion and the gender of people to fire related disasters.


home and the gender of people to fire related disasters.


multi-storied building and the gender of people to fire related disasters.


& explosion and the gender of people to fire related disasters.


of vehicle carrying hazardous material and the age of people to fire related

disasters.


explosion and the age of people to fire related disasters.



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home and the age of people to fire related disasters.


multi-storied building and the age of people to fire related disasters.


& explosion and the age of people to fire related disasters


of vehicle carrying hazardous material and the education of people to fire related

disasters.


explosion and the education of people to fire related disasters.


home and the education of people to fire related disasters.


multi-storied building and the education of people to fire related disasters.


& explosion and the education of people to fire related disasters


of vehicle carrying hazardous material and the income of people to fire related

disasters.


explosion and the income of people to fire related disasters.


home and the income of people to fire related disasters.


multi-storied building and the income of people to fire related disasters.


& explosion and the income of people to fire related disasters.



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2.5 Limitations of the study

The study does not test the awareness of people on industrial explosion.

Only two dimensions of the risk perception of Burn’s risk perception scale is

included in this study.

The study is confined to few segments of the population and the sample is not the

representative of Chennai population due to time constraint.

The study assumes that the people who knew the preventive measures also knew

the causes of the fire related disasters.

The awareness and preparedness of the people are confined to the dimensions

mentioned in this study.

The overall awareness of the people about fire related disasters does not include the

awareness of the people about first aid and smoke detector.

2.6 Research design

The research design used in this study was exploratory research

Exploratory research is the most commonly used unstructured, “informal” research

that is undertaken to gain background information about the general nature of the research

problem. Exploratory research is conducted when the researcher does not know much

about the problem and needs additional information or desires new or more recent

information.

2.7 Sampling design

2.7.1 Population:

The population of Chennai was 6.4 million (including the suburbs of Chennai) and

the study is confined to five segments of the population that includes students,

homemakers, people working in multistoried building, people working in ordinary

building, shopkeepers and college students

2.7.2 Sample:

The sample for this study was the five segments of the population. The segments

included in this study are homemakers, people working in ordinary building, people

working in multistoried building and college students.

2.7.3 Sample Size: The sample size was 280 in which 56 respondents were drawn from

each segment.



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2.7.4 Sampling Technique:

The sampling technique used for the study was convenience sampling. It is a type

of non-probability random sampling in which the sample is chosen in such a way that the

individuals are easy to reach. Convenience sampling does not represent the entire

population.

2.7.5 Source of data

The sources of data used in this study were both primary and secondary in nature.

The secondary sources of data were

• Published reports of disaster management

• Various articles on peoples risk perception, awareness, and preparedness of disaster

management.

• Manuals of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent societies.

• The Ready Campaign of the US Department of Homeland Security

• Field visit to EMRI:

To understand the process of handling various accident phone calls across

Tamil Nadu in EMRI (emergency management research institute) and an

unstructured interview with the operations manager of EMRI.

• Unstructured interviews were conducted with Director of Tamil Nadu fire and

Rescue service and various officers of fire service department Chennai.

Primary data was collected using the tool called questionnaire.

2.8 QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN:

The three parts of the questionnaire were

• Awareness

• Preparedness

• Risk perception

The questionnaire includes both close ended and open-ended questions.

The questionnaire was structured in such a way that preparedness and awareness were

followed by risk perception.



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2.8.1 AWARENESS:

Awareness of an individual about fire related disasters and its management was measured

in the following four dimensions.

1. Causes of the fire related disaster

2. Preventive measures of fire related disasters

3. Handling disaster situation

4. First aid

First aid awareness was not included in overall awareness calculation

2.8.2 PREPAREDNESS:

Preparedness of an individual to a fire related hazards were measured in the

following four dimensions.

Table 2.8.2 preparedness dimension

Equipment:

First aid kit

Smoke detector

Fire extinguisher

Resources:

Knowing the Emergency service hotline

number

Ambulance -104,108

Police- 100

Fire -101,102

Nearest police station number

Nearest fire service number

Nearest hospital number

Knowing the Assembling point in multi-storied building

Training:

Fire fighting training (includes first aid

training)

Periodic mock evacuation drill

Operating fire extinguisher

Insurance:

Life insurance

Fire insurance for properties



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2.8.3 RISK PERCEPTION

The risk perception of the respondent was measured using the scale used in the

studies on perception of natural and environmental risk (Brun 1992, karger & Wiedemann

1998).Two risk characteristics were selected for the questionnaire.

The respondents were asked to judge each hazard regarding the two risk characteristics on

a0- 5point scale.

• Low personal risk------------------high personal risk (The perceived likelihood to die

from a hazard)

• Likely not fatal…………………likely fatal (Intensity of disasters)

2.8.3.1 General risk rating:

The respondents were asked to rate various fire related hazards that they perceive it

to be dangerous to them and then the reasons for the high ratings is asked. This helps to

identify which hazard is perceived to be the most dangerous and the reasons for it.

The predicted reason may be

• Consequences of the disaster

• Perceived lack of possibilities to protect from the disaster

• Lack of possibilities to prepare for the disaster

• Lack of precise, timely or reliable prediction about the disaster

2.8.3.2 Experience:

The experience of the individual to fire related hazards was measured in three

dimensions

• Experience of the fire related hazards to self.

• Experience of the fire related hazards to friends and relatives.

• Experience of the fire related hazards to colleagues and neighbors.

2.8.3.3 Social trust:

The trust of an individual on civil authorities was measured as the confidence of people

on the competency of civil authorities

2.9 Tools and techniques used

• Chi square test

• Descriptive statistics



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3. DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

3.1 DATA ANALYSIS FOR AWARENESS OF THE PEOPLE OF CHENNAI

Figure 3.1.1 Overall awareness of for fire related disaster management-preventive

measures and handling disaster situation.

Inference:The awareness level of the people was found to be low for the fire related disasters

management.



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Figure 3.1.2 awareness of the public about fire related disaster management-

preventive measures and handling disaster situation.

Inference:

The homemakers have high awareness in the disaster accidents of vehicle carrying

hazardous material and low awareness in the disaster fire at home. Students have high

awareness in accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material and low in bomb blast and

explosion. The people working in multi-storeyed building have high awareness in

accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material and low awareness in fire at home. The

people working in ordinary building have high awareness in fire at home and fire at multi-

storied building and low awareness in the disaster bomb blast and explosion. The

shopkeepers have high awareness about the disaster accidents of vehicle carrying

hazardous material and low awareness about the disaster bomb blast & explosion



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Figure 3.1.3 Awareness of the public about fire related disaster management –

preventive measures and handling the disaster (disaster wise)

Inference:

Awarenss level was found to be high for accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous

material and low for the disaster bomb blast & explosion when compared to other

disasters.



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3.1.4 Awareness of the public of Chennai of fire related disaster management –

preventive measures and handling disaster (segment wise)

Inference:

The people working in multistoried building show high level of awareness and

homemakers show low level of awareness when compared to other segments.



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3.2 AWARENESS ABOUT FIRST AID FOR BURNS AND CARDIAC ARREST

Figure 3.2.1Overall awareness of the public about first aid for burns and cardiac

arrest

Inference:The awareness level of the people about first aid for burns and cardiac arrest was

found to be low.



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Figure 3.2.2 Awareness of the each segment about first aid for burns and cardiac

arrest (segment wise)

Inference:

The people working in multistoried building have high awareness about first aid for

burns and cardiac arrest when compared to other segments. Home makers have low

awareness about first aid for burns and cardiac arrest.



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Figure 3.2.3 Awareness of the public about first aid for major burns, minor burns

and electrocuted person.

Inference:

The awareness about first aid for major burns was found to be low and many

respondents don’t have any information about the first aid of major burns. The awareness

about first aid for minor burns is moderate as the respondents have some information about

the first aid for minor burns.The awareness about first aid for cardiac arrest/respiratory

arrest was found to be low however respondents have some information about the first aid

for cardiac arrest/respiratory arrest.



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3.3 AWARENESS OF THE FEMALE RESPONDENTS ABOUT HANDLING FIRE

IN FRYING PAN

Figure 3.3 Awareness of the female respondents about handling fire in frying pan.

Inference:The awareness level was found to be low among the female respondents to handle a

fire in frying pan. However the female respondents have some information to handle fire in

frying pan.



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3.4 AWARNEESS OF THE RESPONDENTS ABOUT THE TYPE OF FIRE

EXTINGUISHER PLACED IN WORKPLACE

Figure 3.4.Awareness of the respondents about the type of fire extinguisher placed in

the workplace.

Inferrence:

The level of awareness of the people about the type of fire extinguisher placed in

the workplace was found to be low.



28

3.5 AWARENESS OF THE RESPONDENTS ABOUT THE SMOKE DETECTOR

Figure 3.5 Awareness of the respondents about the smoke detector

Inferrence:

The awareness of the people about the smoke detector was found to be low.



29

3.6 DATA ANALYSIS FOR PREPAREDNES OF THE PEOPLE OF CHENNAI TO

FIRE RELATED DISASTERS

Figure 3.6.1 Overall preparedness of the public to fire related disasters

Inference:

The preparedness level was found to be low for fire related disasters.



30

Figure 3.6.2 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters – Dimension wise

Inference:

The preparedness level was high in the dimension equipment and low in thedimension training .



31

Figure 3.6.3 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters – Equipment

Inference:

The presence of fire extinguisher is high in multistoried building indicating an apt

level of preparedness however in multistoried building presence of the smoke detector was

found to be low. Pocessing first aid kit is prominent among students and people working in

multi-storied building.



32

Figure 3.6.4 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters – Equipment

Inference:

The presence of fire extinguisher in the work place of the respondents was found to

be high when compared to smoke detector and first aid kit. Also it was infered that the

presence of smoke detector in a building was found to be low.



33

Figure 3.6.5 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters – Resources

Inference:

The home makers have sufficient information about the fire service hotline number

and shopkeepers have less information when compared to other segments.People working

in multistoried building have sufficient information about the police service hotline

number and home makers have less information when compared to other segments. Home

makers was better at knowing the ambulance hotline number when compared to other segments. Knowing the phone numbers of nearest fire station ,police station number and

hospital was found to be low. Only few people working in multi storied building knew the

location of the assembling point.



34

Figure 3.6.6 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters based on the

dimension Resources

Inference:

The preparedness level was found to be low for the respondents knowledge about

nearest fire station phone number and this was followed by nearest police station phone

number and nearest hospital phone number. However the knowledge about ambulance

hotline number and the location of the assembling point among the people working in

multi-storied building was found to be low. The knowledge of the people knowing the

police hotline number was found to be high and fire service hotline number was found to

be moderate.



35

Figure 3.6.7 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters – Training

Inference:

People who have undergone fire-fighting training were found to be high in the

segment of people working in multi-storied building when compared to other segments.

People who had already operated a fire extinguisher are high among shopkeepers even

though people who know to operate a fire extinguisher were low in this segment. People

who know to operate a fire extinguisher were found to be high among the people working

in multi-storied building. People who had already operated a fire extinguisher and those

who know to operate a fire extinguisher were low among homemakers.



36


Dimension- training

Inference:The fire fighting training was found to be low among the factors considered under

the dimension trainning.



37


dimension Insurance

Inference:

The people working in ordinary building was found to be high in having life

insurance for all members of their family,life insurance for properties and life insurance for

earning member of the family when compared to other segments of the respondents.



38


dimension insurance

Inference:

The fire insurance for properties and life insurance for all memebers of the family

was found to be low among the respondents. However insurance for earning member of the

family was found to be high.



39

Figure 3.6.11 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters -segment wise.

Inference:

The people working in multi-storied building were better prepared when compared

to other segments. The homemakers have the lowest level of preparedness to fire related

disasters.



40

Figure 3.6.12 Preparedness of the public to fire related disasters-comparison among

segments and dimensions.

Inference:

The students have high preparedness in dimensions equipment and insurance and

low preparedness in the dimension training. People working in multi-storied building have

high preparedness in dimension training and equipment and low preparedness in the

dimension resources. People working in ordinary building have high in preparedness the

dimension equipment and low preparedness in resources. Shopkeepers have high

preparedness in the dimension equipment and low preparedness in resources. Homemakers

have high preparedness in equipment and low preparedness in training.



41

3.7 DATA ANALYSIS FOR RISK PERCEPTION OF THE PEOPLE OF CHENNAI

ON FIRE RELATED DISASTERS

Table 3.7.1 Risk perception index

LEVEL OF RISK PERCEPTION VALUE

HIGH >9

MODERATE =9

LOW <9

Note: Risk perception index was calculated using the product of two dimension of risk

perception.

Figure 3.7.2 the risk perception of people on fire related disasters.

Inference:

The risk percpetion of accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material and

industrial explosion was found to be high as the risk percpetion value was greater than 9.

The risk percpetion of fire at home was found to be the highest followed by the disaster

bombblast &explosion as the risk perception value was found to be greater than index

value 9.

Figure3.7.3 Risk perception of threat level to Chennai environment



42

Inference:

The risk perception of the respondents on threat level of fire related disasters to

chennai environment was found to be moderate.

Figure3.7.4 Risk perception of the respondents on fire related disasters



43

Inference:

The bomb blast was percieved as the most dangerous disaster.

Figure 3.7.5 Reason for choosing the most dangerous disaster



44

Inference:

Most of the respondents perceived the dangerousness of the disaster based on its

consequences.

3.7.6 Experience of the respondents to fire related hazards



45

Inference:

The experience of the people to fire related disaster was found to be low.

Figure 3.7.7 Experience of respondents to fire related disasters-self,friends and family

memebers/friends and collegues/neighbours.



46

Inference:

The self experience of the peopl to the fire related disasters was found to be low

and the people who haven’t experienced a fire related disaster even to their neigbours or

family members was found to be high.

Table 3.8 Association between risk perception of the people on fire related disasters

and experience of the people to fire related disasters.



47

Disasters Value df Asymp. Sig. (2-sided)

Industrial

explosion

Pearson Chi-Square 14.713a 15 .472

Likelihood Ratio 16.640 15 .341

Linear-by-Linear Association .165 1 .685

N of Valid Cases 2809 cells (28.1%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected

count is .88.

Fire at home

Pearson Chi-Square 27.564a 15 0.024

Likelihood Ratio 29.997 15 0.012

Linear-by-Linear Association 0.009 1 0.922

N of Valid Cases 280

10 cells (31.3%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected

count is .44.

Bomb blast &

explosion




N of Valid Cases 280 10 cells (31.3%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected

count is .88

Accidents of

vehicles carrying

hazardous

material




N of Valid Cases 280 11 cells (34.4%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected

count is 2.64.

Fire at multistoried building



Linear-by-Linear Association 0.002 1 0.961N of Valid Cases 280 11 cells (34.4%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected

count is .44.

Inference:

The calculated value was found to be less than 0.05 for the disasters fire at home,

bomb blast & explosion and accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material. Hence, there

was an association between risk perception of the people on the disasters fire at home,

bomb blast & explosion and accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material and the

experience of people to fire related disasters. The calculated value was greater than 0.05

for the disasters industrial explosion and fire at multi-storied building. Hence, there was no

association between risk perception of the people on the disasters industrial explosion and

fire at multi-storied building and the experience of the people to fire related disasters.



48

3.9 Trust of the people on civil authorities

Figure 3.9.1 the trust of the people on competency of civil authorities



49

Inference:

The trust of the people on civil authority’s competency to handle the disaster

situation was found to be low.

Figure 3.9.2 the confidence of the people on civil authorities to handle disaster

competently



50

Inference:

The confidence of people on civil authorities was found to be high for fire

service and medical response system to handle the disaster situation effectively. The

confidence of people on civil authorities was found to be low for government and moderate

for police service and paramilitary forces to handle the disaster situation effectively whencompared among the civil authorities.

3.10 Association between risk perception of the people on fire related disasters and

the trust of people on civil authorities.

Disasters Value df

Asymp. Sig. (2-

sided)



51

Industrial explosion



Linear-by-Linear

Association

.000 1 .986


59 cells (73.8%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum

expected count is .07.

Fire at home



Linear-by-Linear

Association

1.458 1 .227


62 cells (77.5%) have expected count less than 5. The minimumexpected count is .04.

Bomb blast &

explosion



Linear-by-Linear

Association

.707 1 .400




Accidents of vehicles

carrying

hazardous material



Linear-by-Linear

Association

.457 1 .499




Fire at multi storied

building



Linear-by-Linear

Association

1.276 1 .259




Inference:

The calculated value was found to be less than 0.05 for the disasters fire at home,

bomb blast & explosion, industrial explosion and fire at multi-storied building. Hence,there was an association between risk perception of the people on the disasters fire at



52

home, bomb blast, & explosion, industrial explosion and fire at multi-storied building and

the trust of the people on civil authorities. The calculated value was greater than 0.05 for

the disaster accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material. Hence, there was no

association between risk perception of the people on the disasters accidents of vehicle

carrying hazardous material and the trust of the people on civil authorities.

3.11ASSOCIATION BETWEEN RISK PERCPETION OF AN INDIVIDUAL ON

FIRE RELATED DISASTERS AND DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS

3.11.1 Association between risk perception of people on accidents of vehicle carrying

hazardous material and gender.



53

Disasters Value

df Asymp. Sig. (2-sided)


Pearson Chi-Square 17.389 15 .297


Linear-by-Linear Association 1.589 1 .207 N of Valid Cases 280

6 cells (18.8%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is 1.00.

Fire at home





8 cells (25.0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is .50.

Bomb blast & explosion



Linear-by-Linear Association 5.210 1 .022


10 cells (31.3%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is

1.00.


carrying

hazardous material





12 cells (37.5%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is3.00.

Fire at multi storied building





8 cells (25.0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is .50.

Inference

There was an association between risk perception of the people on accidents of

vehicle carrying hazardous material, fire at multi-storied building and the gender of the

people. There was no association between risk perception of the people on industrial

explosion, fire at home, bomb blast & explosion and the gender of the people.

3.11.2 Association between risk perception of an individual on accidents on fire

related disasters &income of the people.Disasters Value

df Asymp. Sig. (2-sided)






Fire at home




N of Valid Cases 28058 cells (72.5%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count

is .08.



54

Bomb blast &

explosion


Likelihood Ratio 143.023 60 .000Linear-by-Linear Association 12.388 1 .000


58 cells (72.5%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count

is .08.

Accidents of

vehicles carrying

hazardous material






is .09.


building






is .08.

Inference:


vehicle carrying hazardous material, industrial explosion, fire at home, bomb blast

&explosion and the income of the people. There was no association between risk

perception of the people on fire at multi storied building and income of the people.

3.11.3 Association between risk perception of the people on fire related disasters &

education of the people.

Disasters Value

Df Asymp. Sig. (2-sided)







is .03.

Fire at home






is .01.

Bomb blast &

explosion






is .03.



55

Accidents of

vehicles carrying

hazardous material






is .09.


building






is .01.

Inference:


vehicle carrying hazardous material, fire at multi-storied building, fire at home and the

education of the people. There was no association between risk perception of the people on

industrial explosion, bomb blast &explosion and the education of the people.

3.11.4 Association between risk perception of the people on fire related disasters &

age of the people.

Disasters Value df Asymp. Sig. (2-

sided)




Linear-by-Linear Association

12.832 1 .000




Fire at home



Linear-by-Linear

Association

.103 1 .748




Bomb blast &

explosion



Linear-by-Linear

Association

12.832 1 .000





carrying

hazardous material



Linear-by-Linear

Association

.072 1 .788




56




building


Likelihood Ratio 551.479 675 1.000Linear-by-Linear

Association

1.741 1 .187




Inference:


vehicle carrying hazardous material, industrial explosion, fire at home, fire at multi storied

building, bomb blast & explosion and the age of the people.

Table 3.12 Association between risk perception of the people on fire related disasters

and the socio demographic factors of the people

Factors

influencing

risk

perception

Accidents of

vehicle

carrying

hazardous

material

Industrial

explosion

Fire at

multi-

storied

building

Fire at

home

Bomb blast

&explosion

Gender Associated Not

associated

Associated Not

associated

Not

associated

Income/year Associated Associated Not

associated

Associated Associated

Education Associated Not

associated

Associated Associated Not

associated

Age Associated Associated Associated Associated Associated

Experience Associated Not

associated

Not

associated

Associated Associated

Trust Not associated Associated Associated Associated Associated



57

Table 3.13 Awareness level summary:

SEGMENT WISE % OF

AWARENESS

LEVEL OF

AWARENESS

HOMEMAKER 26.68 Low

STUDENTS 30.98 Low

PEOPLE WORKING IN MULTI-

STORIED BUILDING

42.66 Low

PEOPLE WORKING IN ORDINARY

BUILDING

33.78 Low

SHOPKEEPERS 28.03 Low

DISASTER WISE

FIRE AT HOME 34.05 Low

FIRE AT MULTI-STORIED BUILDING 31.07 Low

BOMB BLAST& EXPLOSION 27.98 Low

ACCIDENTS OF VEHICLE CARRYING

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL

38.21 Low

OVERALL AWARENESS 32.83 Low



58

Table 3.13 preparedness level summary:

DIMENSION WISE% OF

PREPAREDNESS

LEVEL OF

PREPAREDNESSEQUIPMENT 52.74 Moderate

RESOURCES 31.13 Low

TRAINING 29 Low

INSURANCE 45.12 Low

SEGMENTWISE

STUDENTS 38.23 Low

PEOPLE WORKING IN MULTI-

STORIED BUILDING

48.01 Low

PEOPLE WORKING IN

ORDINARY BUILDING

44.13 Low

HOMEMAKERS 31.77 Low

SHOPKEEPERS 35.34 Low

OVERALLPREPAREDNESS 39 Low



59

CHAPTER 4

FINDINGS

AWARENESS

The awareness of people about fire related disaster was assessed along two

dimensions (i) preventive measures (ii) handling disaster situations. The awareness was

assessed for the following disasters fire at home, fire at multi-storied building, bomb blast

&explosion and accidents of vehicles carrying hazardous material.

• The overall awareness level of people of Chennai about fire related disaster

management was found to be low.

The awareness level was found to be high for the disaster accidents of

vehicle carrying hazardous material and low for the disaster bomb blast

&explosion when compared to other disasters

The people working in multistoried building show high level of awareness

and homemakers show low level of awareness when compared to other

segments.

The awareness of the people about the first aid for burns and cardiac arrest

was extremely low.

The people don’t have any information about the first aid for major burns

however they have some information about first aid for cardiac arrest.

The awareness level was limited among females about handling fire in the

frying pan.

The awareness of people about the type of fire extinguisher placed in the

workplace was found to be low.

The awareness of people about knowing an instrument called smoke

detector was found to be low.



60

PREPAREDNESS

• The preparedness level of the people of Chennai to fire related disasters was low.

The preparedness level was assessed in four dimensions namely equipment,

resources, insurance and training.

When assessing the level of preparedness along various dimensions, the

preparedness was high in relation to “equipment” and low in relation to

“training”

When assessing the level of preparedness along various segments the

preparedness was high in relation to “the people working in multi-storied

building and low in relation to” the homemakers”.

RISK PERCPETION

• The risk perception of people of Chennai on fire related disasters was high.

The risk perception of the people was high for the disaster fire at home

followed by bomb blast and explosion when compared to other disasters.

The risk perception of the people on threat level of fire related disasters to

chennai environment was moderate.

Bomb blast & explosion was percieved to be the most dangerous disaster.

Most of the people perceive the event of danger in a disaster situation based

on consequences.

• The experience of people of Chennai to fire related disasters was found to be low.

CONFIDENCE OF PEOPLE ON VARIOUS CIVIL AUTHORITIES

The trust of people of Chennai on civil authorities’ competency was found

to be low.

The confidence of people on civil authorities was high for Fire service and

Medical response system to handle the disaster situation effectively.

The confidence of people was found to be low for government and

moderate for Police service and Paramilitary forces to handle the disaster

situation effectively.



61

RISK PERCPETION IN RELATION TO TRUST ON CIVIL AUTHORITIES

There was no association between risk perception of people on accidents of

vehicle carrying hazardous material and the trust of people on civil

authorities.

There was an association between risk perception of people on fire at

multi-storied building, industrial explosion, bomb blast &explosion, fire at

home and the trust of people on civil authorities.

RISK PERCPETION IN RELATION TO EXPERIENCE OF THE PEOPLE TO

FIRE RELATED DISASTERS

There was an association between risk perception of people on accidents of

vehicle carrying hazardous material, fire at home bomb blast & explosion

and the experience of the people to fire related hazards.

There was no association between risk perception of people on industrial

explosion, fire at multi-storied building and the experience of the people to

fire related hazards.

RISK PERCPETION IN RELATION TO GENDER OF THE PEOPLE

There was an association between risk perception of the people on accidents

of vehicle carrying hazardous material, fire at multi-storied building and the

gender of the people.

There was no association between risk perception of the people on

industrial explosion, fire at home, bomb blast & explosion and the gender of

the people.

RISK PERCPETION IN RELATION TO INCOME OF THE PEOPLE

There was an association between risk perception of the people on

accidents of vehicle carrying hazardous material, fire at multistoried

building, fire at home, bomb blast &explosion and the income of the people.


industrial explosion and income of the people.



62

RISK PERCPETION IN RELATION TO AGE OF THE PEOPLE

There was an association between risk perception of the people on fire related

disasters and the age of the people.

RISK PERCPETION IN RELATION TO EDUCATION OF THE PEOPLE

There was an association between risk perception of the people on accidents

of vehicle carrying hazardous material, fire at multi-storied building, fire at

home and the education of the people.


industrial explosion, bomb blast &explosion and the education of the

people.



63

CHAPTER 5

DISCUSSION

Around 35-40% of the respondents are aware and prepared of fire related disaster

management.Hence it can be inferred that there is a need for awareness programme to

reach wide audience.Special emphasis is on the segments of the people which are low in

awarenss and also the disaster which has low awareness. The awareness can be increased

through media inorder to reach wide range of population and can be included in the

curriculam to make a better prepared citizenry for tomorrow.

TRAINING:

There is a need for training in fire fighting and first aid to reach a wide cross

section of population, as the opportunities for training available today are limited. The

people working in multi-storied building do not know the location of the assembling point.

So periodic mock drills can be made mandatory in all multistoried building, which gives a

clear picture of handling a fire situation. This can help to reduce panic and avoid

stampedes in event of any actual disaster.

The reason for high preparedness among the people working in multi-storied

building may be due to periodic mock evacuation drills followed in the building, and also

insurance is given through the company and it is mandatory.

RESOURCES:

The people need to be made aware about the importance of having the phone

numbers of the nearest police station, hospital and fire station in order to be better prepared

to fire related disasters.

INSURANCE:



64

The people working in multistoried building show high level of preparedness in this

dimension because life insurance is mandatory in many companies. If insurance for

properties is made mandatory then the preparedness level can be improved in this

dimension.

RISK PERCEPTION:

The reason for high-risk perception may be due to the high media coverage about

the various disasters across the nation and the risk perception was high for the disaster fire

at home and bomb blast & explosion because the media coverage was high for such

disasters when compared to other disasters. The reason for the perception of most

dangerous disaster as bomb blast and explosion may be due to the exhaustive coverage of

terrorism in media.

The risk awareness campaign can be framed in such a way that the consequences of

the disaster can be emphasized to make the people understand the importance of being

aware and prepared to fire related disasters.

High-risk perception is prevalent along with low awareness and low preparedness

in the present study. There is a need for further studies to evaluate if improving awareness

and preparedness will result in decreased risk perception.

TRUST:

The trust of the people on competency of civil authorities can be increased by

exposing the activities of the civil authorities through media. This may reduce the risk

perception of the people on fire related disasters. Higher trust predicts lower risk

perception. (Siegrist et al, 2000, p.354).

EXPERIENCE:

The experience of the people to fire related disaster is low. This may be the reason

for moderete threat level perception of the people to chennai environment.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN RISK PERCPETION AND SOCIO DEMOGRAPHIC

FACTORS:



65

There is a need for further studies to evaluate the directional aspect of the

association between risk perception of the people on fire related disasters and socio

demographic variables of the people.

CHAPTER 6

CONCLUSION

The awareness of the people to fire related disaster management was low. The

preparedness of the people of Chennai to fire related disasters was also low. These findings

suggest that the need for effective and wide spread program for increasing awareness. The

risk perception of the people about the fire related disasters was high. Further research is

needed to find the correlation between various factors influencing risk perception and the

risk perception of people to frame effective risk communication strategy. Further research

would also help to guide the public policy concerning disaster awareness and disaster

preparedness program.



66

APPENDIX 1

AWARNESS OF FIRE RELATED DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Preventive measures for fire at home:

Hazardous materials

• Never use gasoline, benzene, naphtha or similar inflammables indoor

• Keep matches and lighters away from children

• Keep the products containing hazardous materials in their original containers and

never remove the labels unless the container is corroding. Corroding containers

should be repackaged and clearly labeled.

• Never store hazardous materials in food containers

• Never use air spray, cleaning solutions, paint products, or pesticides near an open

flame.

Smoking & crackers

• Do not smoke near vulnerable areas like huts or petrol bunks

• Handle the crackers properly during festivals and funerals.

• Never smoke in bed.

Electricity

• Inspect extension cords for frayed or exposed wires or loose plugs

• Do not overload an extension cords or outlets

• Have the electrical wiring in your residence checked by the electrician.

Equipment

• Replace the regulator and gas tube in a LPG gas stove appropriately

ACCIDENT OF VEHICLES CARRYING HAZARDOUS MATERIALS:



67

Chemicals purify drinking water, increase crop production, and simplify household

chores. However, chemicals also can be hazardous to the humans or the environment if

released improperly. Hazards can occur during production, storage, transportation, use or

disposal.

DURING A HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT

• Listen to the local radio or television for detailed information and instructions.

Follow the instruction carefully.

• Stay away from the area to minimize contamination. Remember that some toxic

chemicals are odorless.

If you are then:

Asked to evacuate Do so immediately

Caught outside Stay upstream, uphill and upwind! In general, try to go at

least one and half mile from the danger area. Do not walk

into or touch any spilled liquids, airborne mists or

condensed solid chemical deposits

In a motor vehicle Stop and seek shelter in a permanent building. If you must

remain in your car, keep car windows and vents closed

and shut off the air conditioner

Requested to stay

indoors

Close and lock all exterior doors and windows. Close

vents, fireplace dampers and as many interior doors as

possible.

Turn off air conditioners and ventilation. In large

buildings, set ventilation system to 100% recirculation so

that no outside air is drawn into the building. If this is not

possible ventilation, system should be turned off.

Seal the room by covering each window door and vent

using plastic sheeting and duct tape

Use material to fill cracks and holes in the room such as

those around pipes.



68

EXPLOSIONS:

If there is explosion, you should

• Get under a sturdy table or desk if things or falling around you. When they stop

falling, leave quickly, watching for obviously weakened floors and staircases. As

you exit from the building, be especially watchful of debris.

• Leave the building as quickly as possible. Do not stop to retrieve personal

possessions or make phone calls.

• Do not use a elevator

Once you are out of the building:

• Do not stand in front of windows, glass doors or other potentially hazardous areas.

• Move away from sidewalks or streets to be used by emergency officials or others

still exciting the buildings.

If you are trapped in debris

• If possible, use a flashlight or whistle to signal your location to rescuers.

• Avoid unnecessary movement so you do not pick up dust.

• Cover your nose and mouth with anything you have on hand.

• Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are

• Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause a person to inhale dangerous

amount of dust.

Bomb threat:

• Keep the caller on the line and record everything

• Notify the police and building management

• Get as much information from the caller as possible.



69

Handling Disaster situation:

Type of fire What to do

On wood, paper or

clothes

Pour water

Cover thick woolen cloth

The person should roll on the floor to put off fire.

On oil in a frying pan Shut out the heat source and cover the pan with a lid

Electric fire

Switch off the main and put sand on the fire

Remove the person from the source of electricity using a wood or

leather object.

Source: www.tnfrs.com and US department of homeland securities

TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS:

• Soda acid/water co2

• Foam

• Dry chemical powder

• CO2

• Halon1211 type

• ABC type(Mono ammonium phosphate base chemical powder)

Source: www.tnfrs.com (Tamil Nadu Fire and rescue service)

FIRST AID FOR BURNS



70

First-degree burn

The least serious burns are those in which only the outer layer of skin is burned.

The skin is usually red, with swelling and pain sometimes present. The outer layer of skin

has not been burned through

Second-degree burn

When the first layer of skin has been burned through and the second layer of skin (dermis)

is burned, the injury is called a second-degree burn. Blisters develop and the skin takes on

an intensely reddened, splotchy appearance. Second-degree burns produce severe pain and

swelling.

For minor burns, including first-degree burns and second-degree burns limited to an area

no larger than 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) in diameter, take the following action:

• Cool the burn. Hold the burned area under cold running water for at least five

minutes, or until the pain subsides. If this is impractical, immerse the burn in cold

water or cool it with cold compresses. Cooling the burn reduces swelling by

conducting heat away from the skin. Do not put ice on the burn.

• Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage. Do not use fluffy cotton, which may

irritate the skin. Wrap the gauze loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned skin.

Bandaging keeps air off the burned skin reduces pain and protects blistered skin.

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. These include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil,

Motrin, others), naproxen (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). Never give

aspirin to children or teenagers.

Third-degree burn



71

The most serious burns are painless, involve all layers of the skin and cause

permanent tissue damage. Fat, muscle and even bone may be affected. Areas may be

charred black or appear dry and white. Difficulty inhaling and exhaling, carbon monoxide

poisoning, or other toxic effects may occur if smoke inhalation accompanies the burn.

For major burns, dial 108 or call for emergency medical assistance. Until an emergency

unit arrives, follow these steps:

• Do not remove burnt clothing. However, do make sure the victim is no longer in

contact with smoldering materials or exposed to smoke or heat.

• Do not immerse large severe burns in cold water. Doing so could cause shock.

• Check for signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement). If there is no

breathing or other sign of circulation, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

• Elevate the burned body part or parts. Rise above heart level, when possible. Cover

the area of the burn. Use a cool, moist, sterile bandage clean, moist cloth or moist

towels.

First aid for Cardiac Arrest/ Respiratory arrest:

• Call emergency service

• BLOW

Tilt head, lift chin, check breathing

Give two breaths

• PUMP

Position hands in the centre of the chest

Firmly push down two inches of the chest 30 times



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APPENDIX 2

QUESTIONNAIRE

Age: Education: Occupation: Income/year:

Gender:

1. Do you reside/work in a multi-storied building (more than five floors).

(a) Yes (b) No

(i) If yes, do you have an assembling point?

(a) Yes (b) No

(ii) If yes, do you know where it is?

(a) Yes (b) No

(iii) If yes to (ii), can you name the place?

2. Does your work place have a smoke detector?

(a) Yes (b) No (c) not aware (d) aware3. Does your workplace have a fire extinguisher? (For working)

(a) Yes (b) No

4. Do you know how to operate a fire extinguisher?

(a) Yes (b) No

5. If yes, have you ever operated a fire extinguisher?

(a) Yes (b) No

6. Have you undergone any mock evacuation drills in the recent past (2years)?

(a) Yes (b) No



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7. Have you attended any first aid /fire fighting training? If yes, when?

(a) Yes (b) No

8. Have you had an opportunity to undergo first aid training?

(a) Yes (b) No

(i) If yes, when and where

(i) If no, do you know where to get first aid training?

9. Do you have first aid kit at home?

(a) Yes (b) No

10. If yes, what are the items included in the first aid kit.

11. Do you have fire insurance for your properties?

(a) Yes (b) No (c) don’t know

12. How many members of your family have life insurance?

13. Who is the earning member of your family? Is he insured?

14. What is the hotline/ phone number of the following?

Police Fire Ambulance Nearest police station Nearest fire station Nearest hospital

15. What is the first thing you will do in case of an electric fire at your place?

16. What is the first thing you will do if your friend electrocuted?

17. What is the first thing you will do in case of fire on oil in frying pan? (Only for

women)

18. What is the first thing you will do in case of destructive fire at your home?

19. What will you do if someone’s cloths are on fire?

20. You need to escape a fire through a closed door. What, if anything, should you do

before opening the door?

21. What is the first thing would you do, when you were at work and if…?

(i) There was an explosion in the building

(ii) You trapped in debris

(iii) You received a package in the mail that you find suspicious

(iv) You received a telephone call that was a bomb threat

22. If you hear a loud noise of a blast near your place, what will you do?

23. Do you know the types of fire extinguisher? If yes, can you list a few of them?

24. If yes to (4), do you know the type of fire extinguisher placed in your work place?(a) Yes (b) No



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25. Where is usually a fire extinguisher kept in your workplace/ in any public places?

26. If there is an accident of vehicle carrying hazardous materials and you are near the

spot, what will you do?

(i) If you are asked to evacuate

(ii) If you are in an A/C motor vehicle

(iii) If you are requested to stay indoors

27. What are the preventive measures you can take to mitigate in the following situation?

(i)Fire accidents at home

(ii) Explosion& bomb blast

(iii)Fire at workplace or multi-storied building

28. (i) Imagine that your friend got burn in his/her hand and the outer layer of the skin

is completely burnt. What is the first aid you will do before approaching a doctor?

(ii) Imagine that your friend met with a fire accident, inner layer of the skin is

burnt, and the bones are visible. What is the first aid you will do before

approaching a doctor?

(iii) If you see, your friend electrocuted and he/she has fainted. Your friend stops

breathing. What will you do before you go to the doctor/arrival of an ambulance?

29. (i) Have you ever experienced any fire related accident?

(a) Yes (b) No

(ii) Have any of your family members/friends experienced any fire related

accident?

(a) Yes (b) No

(iii) Have any of your neighbors/colleagues experienced any fire related accident?(a) Yes (b) No

30. What is your rating on the level of threat of fire hazards to the Chennai environment?

1.No

threat at

all

2.Minimal

threat

3. Mild

threat

4. Moderate

threat

5. Strong

threat

6.Very

strong

threat

7.Extreme

threat

31. Rank the following fire related hazard which you consider it to be the most dangerous

hazard and why? (Show cards& record response)



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Heavy vehicles

carrying hazardous

material

Industrial

explosion

Fire at work

place/multi storied

building

Fire at

home

Bomb blast &

explosion

Reason:

32. How do you rate the following fire related hazards in the following risk characteristicson five-point scale given below (show cards& record the response)

0..1..2...3..4…5

Heavy vehicles

carrying

hazardous

material

Industrial

explosion

Fire at

multi-

storied

building

Fire at

home

Bomb

blast&

explosion

Low personal risk

…….high personal

risk

Likely not

fatal….likely fatal

33. Do you agree that the civil authorities in Chennai can handle a disaster situation

competently?

Strongly

Agree(5)

Agree

(4)

Neither agree nor

disagree (3)

Disagree

(2)

Strongly disagree

(1)

34. How confident are you that the following civil authorities can handle a disaster

situation competently? (Show cards & record response)

Civil authoritiesVery

confident(4)

Confident

(3)

Somewhat

confident(2)

Not at all

confident(1)

Fire servicePolice service



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Government

Paramilitary forces

Medical response

system

REFERENCES

Brun(1992) karger& wiedemann (1998), perception of natural and environmental

risk

Lai&Tao (2003), perception of risk in Chinese people, city university, Hongkong

Plapp (2001), Perception and evaluation of risk of natural hazards (working paper

on risk research and insurance management) Germany interim report.

Sonja D Hofmann et al (2007), Disaster reduction in climate change, Awareness of

storm surge risk in coastal community on the North Sea.

The council for excellence in US government (2006), Public readiness index A

Survey-Based Tool to Measure the Preparedness of Individuals, Families, and

Communities.

Websites

www.tnfrs.com

www.raddningsverket.se/templates/SRSA

www.usfa.dhs.gov

www.ready.gov

www.excelgov.org

http://hsc.usf.edu/publichealth/cdmha/CDMHA_mitigation_preparedness.htm

http://earthchangesmedia.com/survival/rcfire.php

http://timesfoundation.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1318386.cms











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