Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Students from Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences regarding Fire Safety in 2023: A Cross-Sectional Study

Ameneh  Marzban; Soheil  Golzarhamid; Boshra  Ebrahimy; Golnaz  Azami; Payam  Emami

doi:10.18502/jchr.v14i27.20188

Ameneh Marzban Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Soheil Golzarhamid Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Boshra Ebrahimy Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
Golnaz Azami Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
Payam Emami Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jchr.v14i27.20188

Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Student, Fire safety

Abstract

Background: Fire is a significant disaster that poses a threat to people's lives, properties, and overall well-being. The level of awareness within a community plays a crucial role in effective handling of fire incidents. This research aims to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of students at Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences concerning fire safety.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in 2023 among the students studying medical sciences in Kurdistan. The sample size consisted of 250 participants, and data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of four parts: demographic information, knowledge, attitude, and practice. Data analysis was performed using SPSS24, employing descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and ANOVA.

Results: The mean and standard deviation of knowledge, attitude, and performance scores were 23.28 ± 4.31, 21.53 ± 8.36, and 23.04 ± 4.94, respectively, and the average scores of knowledge, attitude, and performance were reported in 24.56%, 32.59%, and 41.05% of the participants. The results indicated a statistically significant relationship between the average knowledge score and gender and educational level (p < 0.05). The primary sourceof information about fire for students was the Internet, followed by professors and academic units’ views.

Conclusion: The findings of this study reveal an average level of knowledge, attitude, and performance among students regarding fire safety, and the obtained scores are considered inadequate for educated and young individuals in the country. It is recommended to develop suitable educational programs that encompass both theoretical knowledge and practical exercises (maneuvers) to enhance awareness, foster the right attitude, and improve practice. These educational programs should be conducted regularly to minimize forgetfulness in this context.