LEVEL OF AWARENESS ON FIRE PREVENTION AMONG BUSINESS OWNERS IN NORTHERN PHILIPPINES: IMPLICATIONS FOR FIRE SAFETY AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

Focusing on fire safety protection and firefighting techniques, this study sought to evaluate the degree of awareness of business owners in the Northern Philippines about fire prevention actions. Surveying 80 business establishment owners to evaluate their understanding of the criteria for renewing business permits and their awareness of fire safety practices, the study employed a descriptive and evaluative approach. The results showed that business owners were well aware of necessary fire safety precautions, including the supply of fire extinguishing equipment, fire extinguishers, and understanding of emergency evacuation protocols. The respondents' degree of knowledge of fire safety and firefighting methods showed no notable relationship, however, with their demographic traits—such as age, gender, educational level, years of business operation, and type of business. To create a more fire-conscious society, the study emphasizes the need of ongoing and extensive fire safety education for all business owners, regardless of their history or the size of their company. Moreover, it emphasizes the requirement of improving fire safety standard regulatory compliance as part of the business permit renewal procedure. Local government units and fire safety agencies need the outcomes to create and carry out more efficient fire prevention campaigns and rules to protect properties and lives.