Measures that should be taken to improve fire safety in schools

A dormitory on fire in a school. [File, Standard]

School fires and accidents in Kenyan educational institutions have been persistent and alarming over the past few decades. The tragic loss of life, destruction of property, and disruption of education have underscored the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate these risks.

The scope of the problem is vast. According to a report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, there has been a significant increase in incidents of school fires and accidents over the past 10 years. Between 2010 and 2020, over 1,000 cases of school fires were reported, leading to the deaths of dozens of students and causing millions of shillings in damage. Accidents within school premises, ranging from laboratory explosions to playground injuries, have also been on the rise.

The root causes of these incidents are multifaceted, encompassing both human and environmental factors. Poor infrastructure, lack of proper safety equipment, inadequate training of staff and students, and psychological stress among students have all been identified as contributing factors. Addressing these issues requires a holistic and strategic approach.

One of the key strategies in preventing school fires is infrastructure improvement and maintenance. Ensuring that school infrastructure meets safety standards is crucial. The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the National Construction Authority, should mandate regular inspections of school buildings to identify potential fire hazards. Schools should be equipped with fire-resistant materials, proper electrical wiring, and functional fire exits. Data from the Kenya Fire Protection Association indicates that over 60 per cent of school fires are caused by electrical faults. Therefore, regular maintenance of electrical systems and the installation of fire alarms and sprinklers can significantly reduce the risk of fires.

Education and training are also critical in controlling school fires. Both students and staff should be trained in fire prevention, detection, and response. Regular fire drills should be conducted to ensure that everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency. According to a study by University of Nairobi, schools that conduct regular fire drills and have trained staff experience a 40 per cent lower incidence of fire-related injuries. Consequently, the government should make fire safety education a mandatory part of the curriculum.

Modern technology provides effective tools for early detection and suppression of fires. Schools should be equipped with smoke detectors, fire alarms, and automatic sprinkler systems. These systems can detect fires in their early stages and activate suppression mechanisms before they escalate. Research by the Institute of Engineers of Kenya shows that schools equipped with automated fire detection systems have a 70 per cent higher survival rate in the event of a fire. Government subsidies could help schools, especially in low-income areas, afford these systems.

Establishing and enforcing fire safety regulations is another crucial step. The  government has established various regulations regarding fire safety in schools, but enforcement remains a challenge. The Education ministry together with the Kenya Bureau of Standards, should enforce strict compliance with fire safety standards. Schools that fail to meet these standards should face penalties, including closure until necessary improvements are made. Community involvement in monitoring and reporting non-compliant schools can also enhance enforcement.

In addition to fire safety, controlling school accidents requires strategic methods. Schools should conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards that could lead to accidents. This includes evaluating the safety of playground equipment, laboratories, and other facilities where students are active. A risk assessment report by Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development found that 80 per cent of school accidents could be prevented through regular inspections and timely repairs of faulty equipment. Schools should therefore establish a risk management plan that includes regular inspections, immediate repairs, and preventive measures.

Just as with fire safety, education and training play a vital role in preventing school accidents. Students should be educated on the safe use of equipment, proper behaviour in laboratories, and the importance of reporting hazards. Teachers and support staff should also receive training in first aid and emergency response. According to the Kenya Red Cross, schools with trained first responders have a 50 per cent higher rate of successful interventions in accident cases.

Schools should also be equipped with adequate safety gear, including fire extinguishers, first aid kits, safety goggles, and gloves. In laboratories, proper ventilation systems should be installed to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals. A study by the World Health Organisation emphasises the importance of adequate safety equipment in reducing the severity of school accidents. Schools should regularly audit their safety equipment to ensure that it is accessible and in good working condition.

Creating a safe and supportive environment is essential for reducing the occurrence of accidents. This includes fostering a culture of safety, where students feel comfortable reporting potential hazards, and teachers are proactive in maintaining a safe learning environment. Psychological support is also crucial. Studies have shown that stress and bullying can lead to accidents, as students may become distracted or act recklessly. Schools should therefore implement anti-bullying programmes and provide mental health support to students.