FACTORS AFFECTING THE FRONTLINE SERVICES OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION PERSONNEL IN SANTA ROSA, NUEVA ECIJA An Undergraduate Research Presented to The Faculty of the Criminal Justice Education HOLY CROSS COLLEGE, STA. ROSA, NE, INC. Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija In Partial Fulfilment Of the Requirements of the Subject Criminological Research 1 (RES1-CRC) MIRANDA, JERRYMAR A. SANTIAGO, HENDRICH S. RIRAO, ARJAY A. TUAZON, GERALD Y. ROQUERO, JOHN VERNON December, 2023 1 CHAPTER 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING Introduction Frontline services provided by emergency responders, such as firefighters and paramedics, are critical in safeguarding lives and properties during crises, particularly in fire-related emergencies. However, the effective delivery of these services can be influenced by Frontline firefighting services play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and properties from destructive fires. However, several factors can impact the capacity of firefighters to deliver these essential services effectively during fire-related emergencies. Understanding these factors is imperative for improving the frontline service of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. Internationally, the significance of well-equipped and well-trained firefighters is recognized worldwide. National and local governments acknowledge the significance of frontline services in mitigating the devastating effects of fires. In the Philippines, the BFP serves as the primary government agency responsible for fire prevention and suppression, ensuring the safety and security of communities. The frontline services offered by BFP personnel are characterized by their direct involvement in handling fire emergency scenes. These dedicated individuals face physically and emotionally demanding challenges in their occupations. As BFP frontliners directly handle fire emergency scenes, they take on demanding physical and emotional strains. Their ability to respond despite constraints depends considerably on 2 resource availability, training adequacy, morale, and manageable workloads (Santos, 2020; Perez & Geronimo, 2019). However, research on how different factors influence services delivered by BFP personnel within specific local settings has been limited, particularly in smaller rural municipalities. These local settings likely pose unique realities shaping on-ground service delivery. Therefore, this study aims to address this gap by examining the factors affecting the frontline service delivery of BFP personnel within Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. By using a quantitative descriptive method, the study seeks to identify and understand the various factors that may impede or facilitate the frontline service delivery of the BFP in this locale and to provide evidence-based recommendations for better supporting BFP personnel in delivering quality frontline services to the community during fire emergencies. The outcomes of this study have the potential to inform tailored policies and interventions to enhance support for these front-liners, leading to enhanced safety for the municipality of Santa Rosa during crises. By providing insights into better supporting BFP front-liners, this study can help strengthen their capacity to save lives and property when it matters most. 3 Review of the Related Literature The ability of fire departments to respond effectively to fire emergencies and deliver high-quality frontline services relies on several key factors that impact firefighter performance. This section examines recent scholarly literature on the essential elements that influence fire services' capacity to execute critical duties during fire outbreaks and rescue operations. Specifically, it analyzes research findings on how different factors affect firefighters' effectiveness in emergencies. Resource and Equipment The effectiveness of fire services is heavily dependent on the availability and quality of resources and equipment. Recent studies have revealed that well-equipped fire departments are better equipped to handle emergencies, leading to more favorable outcomes (Wu et al., 2021). Nwachukwu et al. (2022) have emphasized the importance of resource optimization for effective firefighting operations, highlighting that this includes not only physical equipment but also maintenance and procurement systems. Lee and Lee (2021) have further explored the impact of technological advancements in firefighting equipment on fire suppression efficiency, underscoring the need for continuous investments in modern gear and apparatus. Training and Skills Competency The ability of firefighters to respond to emergencies effectively is directly influenced by their competency. According to Taylor and Davis (2022), it is essential to 4 integrate the latest fire science research into training programs to ensure that firefighters are prepared for the evolving nature of fire-related emergencies. Sim et al. (2023) have investigated the impact of competency-based training on firefighter performance, concluding that regular, rigorous training significantly enhances both individual and team capabilities. Kim et al. (2020) have also shown that immersive training environments, such as virtual reality simulations, can significantly aid in the development of critical firefighting skills. Morale and Job Satisfaction Maintaining the well-being of firefighters is crucial for delivering a high level of service. Studies have found that morale and job satisfaction are significantly linked to job performance, particularly in high-stress professions like firefighting (Patel et al., 2020; Lim et al., 2021). Thomson (2023) has pointed out that factors such as leadership quality, recognition, and opportunities for professional growth contribute significantly to firefighters' job satisfaction and, consequently, their performance. Besides, Brown (2020) has discussed the impact of mental health support and stress management on firefighters' morale, suggesting that addressing these areas can lead to improved job satisfaction and reduced burnout. Workload and Stress The workload and stress levels experienced by firefighters can significantly affect their physical and mental health, ultimately impacting their ability to perform frontline duties. Muller et al. (2023) have studied the relationship between workload, stress, and 5 job performance, revealing that high stress levels can lead to decreased efficiency and increased risk of errors during emergencies. Williams and Johnson (2019) have focused on the coping mechanisms used by firefighters to manage occupational stressors, advocating for the implementation of comprehensive stress management and wellness programs within fire services. In general, the studies presented herein underscore the criticality of ensuring adequate resources, including fire trucks, protective gear, and functional equipment, for the efficient implementation of fire suppression and mitigation interventions (Lee & Lee, 2021; Nwachukwu et al., 2022; Wu et al., 2021). Providing firefighters with extensive and rigorous competency-based training is equally important to equip them with the necessary skills and capabilities to address the complex risks associated with fire emergencies (Kim et al., 2020; Sim et al., 2023). Given research indicating the significant impact of factors such as leadership, incentives, mental health support, and stress management on performance and resilience among firefighters, it is crucial to maintain high morale and boost job satisfaction (Brown, 2020; Lim et al., 2021; Thomson, 2023). Additionally, excessive workload leading to burnout and decreased response efficiency is a critical area that requires intervention across fire services (Muller et al., 2023; Williams & Johnson, 2019). Integrating such insights can inform targeted recommendations for reinforcing support provided to Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) frontline personnel, enabling them to carry out their lifesaving duties effectively during fire outbreaks. 6 Theoretical Framework The current study is anchored on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Model, developed by Arnold B. Bakker and Evangelia Demerouti. The JD-R Model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the factors that influence employee wellbeing and work performance by examining the interplay between job demands and resources. According to the JD-R Model, job demands refer to the physical, psychological, social, or organizational aspects of work that require sustained effort and are associated with physiological and psychological costs (Demerouti et al., 2001). These demands include workload, time pressure, emotional demands, and physical exertion. On the other hand, job resources are the physical, psychological, social, or organizational aspects of work that are functional in achieving work goals, reducing job demands, and stimulating personal growth and development. Examples of job resources include social support, autonomy, feedback, and opportunities for skill development and growth. In this study, the frontline services provided by Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija, involve high job demands due to the nature of their work. Firefighters face physical demands, such as carrying heavy equipment and working in hazardous environments, as well as psychological demands, such as making quick decisions during emergencies. They also experience high levels of workload and stress, which can impact their performance and well-being. To effectively deliver frontline services, BFP personnel require specific job resources. Resources such as adequate and updated equipment, sufficient training and 7 skills competency, supportive work environments, and opportunities for career advancement can help mitigate the impact of job demands and enhance job satisfaction and performance. Overall, the JD-R Model will be used as a lens to examine the factors affecting the frontline services of BFP personnel in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. The sociodemographic profile of the respondents will provide insights into how age, sex, civil status, and years of service may influence job demands and resources. The factors presented in the study, including resources and equipment, training and skills competency, morale and job satisfaction, and workload and stress, will be analyzed within the framework of the JD-R Model to understand their impact on the frontline services of BFP personnel. 8 Conceptual Framework The Input-Process-Output (IPO) model illustrated below is a framework that provides a structure for studying systems or processes. It maps the flow of inputs into a system, the internal process activities, and the resulting outputs (MacCuspie et al., 2014). This study on the factors affecting the frontline services of Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija, adopted the IPO model as its conceptual framework. The input variables have been classified into two distinct groups. The first group pertains to the socio-demographic characteristics of the BFP personnel, including their age, gender, civil status, and length of tenure. A descriptive analysis of these attributes will enable a comprehensive understanding of the human resources available within this particular BFP unit. The second input category focuses on four critical factors hypothesized to have an impact on service delivery based on a review of the existing literature. These factors include (a) adequacy of resources and equipment, (b) competency of training and skills, (c) level of morale and job satisfaction, and (d) degree of workload and stress. The study aims to describe the current status of these factors as perceived by the BFP front-liners. Quantitative descriptive techniques will be employed to achieve the research objectives. Closed-ended survey questionnaires will be systematically distributed to the target BFP personnel to collect data. The responses of the participants will be analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and means. 9 The study's output will comprise key findings on the factors that influence frontline services during fire emergencies in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. These findings, as perceived by the BFP personnel directly involved in these operations, can guide strategic interventions to enhance resource support for the responders. Ultimately, this can enhance their capacity to preserve more lives and property during such crises. Figure 1. Research Paradigm INPUT 1. Demographic Profile of the respondents in terms of; • Age • Sex • Civil Status • Number of years in service 2. How may the following factors be described in terms of their effect on the frontline services of the Bureau of Fire Protection Personnel in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija: a) resources and equipment, b) training and skills competency c) morale and job satisfaction d) workload and stress PROCESS Research Design: • Quantitative Research Design • • Data Gathering Collection: Administering and distribution of survey questionnaire to BFP personnel OUTPUT Factors Affecting Frontline Services in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija Insights on how to better support BFP personnel in delivering quality frontline services during fire emergencies Data Analysis: Frequencies, Percentage, Mean 10 Statement of the Problem The frontline services provided by firefighters and are crucial in saving lives and properties from destructive fires. However, there may be factors that affect the capacity of fire fighters to effectively deliver frontline services during fire-related emergencies. With the use of a quantitative descriptive research design. This study aims to determine the factors that affect the frontline service of Bureau of Fire Protection in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions: 1) How may the socio-demographic profile of the respondents be described in terms of: 1.1 age, 1.2 sex, 1.3 civil status, and 1.4 number of years in service 2) How may the following factors be described in terms of their effect on the frontline services of the Bureau of Fire Protection in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija: a) resources and equipment b) training and skills competency c) morale and job satisfaction d) workload and stress The results of this study are envisioned to provide insights on how to better support BFP personnel in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija in delivering quality frontline services to the community during fire emergencies through evidence-based recommendations. 11 Scope and Delimitation The present research is focused on examining the factors that impact the frontline services of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in the Santa Rosa municipality of Nueva Ecija. The scope of this study is limited to BFP personnel, specifically firefighters and frontliners, in that specific area. The study’s findings and recommendations may not be applicable to other fire departments or locations. Furthermore, the study does not aim to evaluate or compare the frontline service of BFP with other emergency response agencies or professions. The research team plans to conduct the study during the first semester of the academic year 2023-2024. However, the timeframe for data collection and analysis will be determined based on the availability of the participants. The study will comply with ethical considerations to ensure the privacy, confidentiality, and voluntary participation of all respondents. In general, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the factors affecting the frontline service of the Bureau of Fire Protection in Santa Rosa and Nueva Ecija. The research team plans to generate evidence-based recommendations to improve their capacity to deliver quality frontline services during fire emergencies. 12 Significance of the Study The study on the factors affecting the frontline service of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija holds numerous significant implications. The study’s findings will contribute to the literature or existing knowledge of frontliners’ challenges while delivering effective services. The study will determine the factors affecting the frontline services of BFP, providing a comprehensive understanding of the underlying issues affecting personnel’s capacity in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. This knowledge will help in identifying areas for improvement and developing evidence-based strategies to enhance the frontline service delivery of the BFP. Secondly, the study’s insights will be valuable for the government, specifically policymakers, fire department administrators, and other stakeholders in developing and implementing policies, protocols, and interventions to support BFP personnel. By identifying the specific factors that influence their frontline service, policymakers can allocate resources and address gaps in areas such as equipment provision, training programs, and mental health support. This study will provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the BFP’s frontline services. Insights from this study may also benefit the improvement of operations and management of other emergency response units at the local level. Moreover, the study’s findings will have practical implications for the personnel themselves. By understanding the factors affecting their service delivery, the frontliners can gain insights into their professional development needs, well-being, and job satisfaction. The study can raise awareness among BFP personnel about the 13 importance of adequate resources, ongoing training, and support systems, improving morale and overall job satisfaction. This, in turn, can contribute to a more motivated and resilient frontline force better equipped to handle the challenges they face in their demanding roles. Lastly, this study will serve as a guide for future researchers who take the same interest in this topic. Also, it can be replicated in other locales to assess their respective fire stations. Understanding the common and unique factors across stations can better inform government policies on fire protection service systems. 14 Definition of Terms The following terms are defined conceptually to be easily understood. Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is the government body in the Philippines responsible for the provision of fire services. It is under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior and Local Government. Cleary (Shaw, R. et. al. 2004). Community is a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. (The Study of Society, Harper and Row: New York, 1987). Frontliners is an essential worker whose job depends on in-person interactions and may involve some risk; a frontline worker, especially in policing, healthcare, emergency services, public transit, grocery, warehouse, and delivery work (Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English Words, n.d.). Frontline service is a service, such as the education or health system, that is run by the government to provide services directly to members of the public (Cambridge Dictionary). Personnel is a body of persons usually employed, as in a factory or organization (Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English Words, n.d.). Morale is the mental and emotional condition (as of enthusiasm, confidence, or loyalty) of an individual or group with regard to the function or tasks at hand (Dictionary by Merriam-Webster, n.d.) 15 CHAPTER II RESEARCH METHODOLOGY This chapter includes a detailed description of the research method, research design, research locale, respondents of the study, sampling design, research instrument, data gathering procedure, data analysis techniques and ethical considerations that will be used in the study. Research Design This study has adopted a quantitative descriptive research design. This particular approach facilitates the systematic gathering and analysis of numerical data to comprehend and describe the factors that impact the frontline services of the Bureau of Fire Protection in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. By using the quantitative approach, the researchers can measure and quantify the variables of interest, providing a comprehensive overview of the factors that influence the frontline service. Research Locale The research will be conducted in the municipality of Santa Rosa, located in the province of Nueva Ecija. Specifically, the data collection procedure shall occur at the Bureau of Fire Protection: Santa Rosa Fire Station. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is an attached agency of the Department of Interior and Local Government responsible 16 for the safekeeping, prevention of fire, and safety of life and property. The study commences in the first semester of the Academic Year 2023-2024. Sample and Sampling Procedure The target population for this study consists of BFP personnel serving in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija. A purposive sampling technique will be utilized to select the respondents. Considering the relatively small population of interest, the sample size will be equivalent to the whole population (N: 21 = n: 21; 9 females and 12 males). respondents will be 9 females and 12 males. In order to access the target population and distribute the questionnaires, the research team will seek permission from the head of the Santa Rosa Fire Station. Data Gathering Procedure The research adviser, defense panel, chair program, and the dean of the college department have signed the letter of approval for the study’s presentation in the proposal defense. The researchers also sought permission from the College Dean to conduct the study in the community, specifically in the Bureau of Fire Protection in Santa Rosa. To collect data, the researchers will use a survey questionnaire as the primary tool. They will also send an authorization letter to the BFP Santa Rosa prior to the distribution of the questionnaire. Following the approval from the head of the Santa Rosa fire station, the questionnaire will be disseminated to the BFP personnel to garner the needed 17 information. The researchers will ensure that the data collection process aligns with the availability of the respondents, and it will be administered during their free time. Further, no act of compulsion or force will be involved. Data Gathering Instrument The research team has devised a structured questionnaire to serve as the primary tool for data gathering in this study. The questionnaire has been carefully designed to meet the primary research objective and will be subject to validation by the research adviser to ensure its validity. The questionnaire comprises two parts. The first part aims to gather the sociodemographic profile of the respondents, including age, sex, civil status, and years in service. The respondents will be provided with multiple-choice options to select the appropriate response representing their socio-demographic characteristics. The second part of the questionnaire focuses on the factors affecting frontline services; it is further divided into four sections, namely resources and equipment, training and skills competency, morale and job satisfaction, and workload and stress. Each section contains ten statements related to the specific factor being assessed. The respondents will be required to rate their level of agreement or disagreement with each statement using a Likert scale, ranging from Strongly Disagree, Disagree, Agree, to Strongly Agree. To further establish the validity of the questionnaire, it will undergo pilot testing among personnel who share similar attributes with the target respondents. Feedback on the clarity, readability, and relevance of the questionnaire items will be solicited and used 18 to refine the instrument. The reliability of the questionnaire will also be determined during the pilot testing phase, utilizing Cronbach's alpha test. An alpha coefficient value of 0.7 or higher will indicate acceptable internal consistency reliability. Data Analysis Technique The data gathered from the survey questionnaire will be subject to analysis using descriptive statistics. Frequencies, percentages, and means will be computed to describe the socio-demographic profile of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel concerning age, sex, civil status, and years of service. In addition, weighted means will be calculated for each area's items to identify the factors influencing frontline services, including resources/equipment, training/competency, morale/satisfaction, and workload/stress. The obtained weighted mean's verbal interpretation will be used to describe the effect of each factor on frontline services using the following scale: Numerical Value Range Verbal Description 4 3.25 - 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.50 - 3.24 Agree 2 1.75 - 2.49 Disagree 1 1.0 - 1.74 Strongly Disagree Verbal Interpretation The respondent strongly agrees with the statement. The respondent agrees with the statement. The respondent disagrees with the statement. The respondent strongly disagrees with the statement. 19 The results of the data analysis will be integrated and presented using tables and figures. Key significant findings will be highlighted and discussed in relation to the research question and objective. Conclusions and recommendations will be drawn based on the evidence generated from the BFP frontliner responses. Ethical Considerations Several ethical considerations will be taken into account in this study to ensure that it adheres to ethical research standards and protects the rights and welfare of the participants. Voluntary Participation Participation in the study is entirely voluntary. No coercion or deception tactics will be used to compel Bureau of Fire Protection personnel to participate. The researchers will clearly communicate to the participants that they have the option to join or not join the study without any consequences. Benefits and Risks There are no major foreseeable risks in participating in this study. The findings of the study could potentially inform policies or interventions to improve the frontline services of the Bureau of Fire Protection. The participants will not receive any direct benefits or incentive. 20 Informed Consent The researchers will obtain informed consent from the participants after allowing them ample time to read the consent form and ask questions regarding their participation. The consent form will outline the nature, purpose, benefits and risks of the research. Confidentiality The confidentiality of the respondents is guaranteed. The survey questionnaires do not ask for identifying particulars of the participants beyond the required sociodemographic information needed to describe the sample characteristics. The completed questionnaires will be securely stored in a password protected device only accessible to the researchers. Hard copies of the research data will be kept safely by the assigned member and will be shredded 2 years after study completion. Right to Withdraw The participants will be informed of their right to withdraw from the study or leave questions unanswered anytime without penalty or explanation. Withdrawing will not adversely impact their employment status or standing at the fire station. Conflict of Interest There are no conflicts of interest to declare, whether personal, commercial, political, academic or financial that could affect the outcomes of this study. Remuneration The respondents will not receive any form of compensation or incentive for taking part in the research. Their participation stems from completely voluntary cooperation. 21 Upon study completion, the researchers will furnish the Santa Rosa Fire Station with a report summarizing the key results and recommendations that could enhance frontline services. Every ethical measure will be exercised to ensure this study upholds moral research standards. Bibliography ▪ Brown, J. (2020). Firefighter burnout and workplace safety. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 25(3), 189–202. ▪ BFP Mandate. (2022). Official website of the Bureau of Fire Protection Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.bfp.gov.ph ▪ Demerouti, E., Bakker, A. B., Nachreiner, F., & Schaufeli, W. B. (2001, January 1). The job demands-resources model of burnout. Journal of Applied Psychology. ▪ Dictionary by Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Merriam-Webster. https://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary ▪ Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English Words. (n.d.). Dictionary.com. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/frontliner ▪ Lee, J., & Davis, L. (2021). Budgetary constraints and the allocation of resources in the fire service. Public Administration Review, 81(2), 346–358. 22 ▪ Lim, S. H., Xerxes, P., & Tan, M. (2021). Morale and job satisfaction among firefighters: The mediating role of leadership support. Personnel Review, 50(1), 301–319. ▪ MacCuspie, R. I., Hyman, H., Yakymyshyn, C., Srinivasan, S. S., Dhau, J. S., & Drake, C. (2014, December 1). A framework for identifying performance targets for sustainable nanomaterials. Sustainable Materials and Technologies. ▪ Muller, A., Carter, A., & Williamson, A. (2023). Workload, burnout, and safety incidents among firefighters: Evidence from Australia. Fire Safety Journal, p. 120, Article 103021. ▪ Nwachukwu, C., Okeke, O., & Chukwuma, E. (2022). Firefighting resources and emergency response effectiveness in Lagos, Nigeria. Disasters, 46(2), 428-450. ▪ Patel, R., Taylor, K., & Smith, R. (2020). The impact of organizational culture on firefighter safety. Fire Safety Journal, 114, Article 103017. ▪ Perez, C. & Geronimo, J. (2019). Challenges encountered by the Bureau of Fire Protection personnel in a first-class municipality in Cavite, Philippines. Open Access Library Journal, 6(3), 1-14. ▪ Santos, A. (2020). Organizational culture and job satisfaction among firefighters in the National Capital Region. Asia Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 8(1), 150–160. ▪ Sim, T., Lee, H., & Kim, E. (2023). Enhancing firefighting strategies through virtual reality training simulations. Virtual Reality, 27(1), 45-59. 23 ▪ Taylor, P., & Davis, S. (2022). The role of advanced fire dynamics training in firefighter safety. Fire Technology, 58(1), 295–320. ▪ Thomson, H. (2023). Leadership and its impact on firefighter morale and retention. Leadership & Organization Development Journal, 44(1), 123–137. ▪ Williams, J., & Johnson, P. (2019). Stress management interventions for firefighters: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 32(5), 741–750. ▪ Wu, S., Chen, J., & Wang, L. (2021). Assessing the impact of firefighting equipment quality on fire suppression effectiveness. Fire Safety Science, 19(3), 213229. 24 Survey Questionnaire FACTORS AFFECTING THE FRONTLINE SERVICES OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION PERSONNEL IN SANTA ROSA, NUEVA ECIJA Part I. Socio-demographic Profile Please profile. check (√) the box that corresponds to your 1. Age: [ ] 20-30 years old [ ] 31-40 years old [ ] 41-50 years old [ ] 51 years old and above 2. Sex: [ ] Male [ ] Female 3. Civil Status: [ ] Single [ ] Married [ ] Widowed/Widower [ ] Separated 4. Years in Service [ ] 1-5 years [ ] 6-10 years [ ] 11-15 years [ ] 16-20 years 25 [ ] 21 years or more PART II. Put a check mark (√) on the space provided to describe your level of agreement with the following statements. 4 3 2 1 – – – Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Strongly Disagree A. Resources and Equipment 4 3 2 1 4 3 2 1 1. Our fire trucks are updated and in good working condition. 2. The equipment we use during fire emergencies are complete. 3. We have enough supply of fuel for the fire trucks whenever needed. 4. Our fire station has enough space for equipment and drills. 5. The location of our fire station allows us to respond quickly to fire emergencies. 6. The water supply we use for firefighting is readily available when needed. 7. We have enough functional fire hoses suitable for our operations. 8. Our (bunker) personal protective gears are complete and replaced when damaged. 9. We have enough fire extinguishers with updated inspection tags. 10. Our communication devices enable timely coordination during fire emergencies. B. Training and Skills Competency 1. I undergo continuous training to update my skills in firefighting. 2. The training I receive has equipped me to handle fire emergencies effectively. 3. I can operate necessary firefighting equipment 26 efficiently based on my training. 4. I am confident about making quick and appropriate decisions during emergency situations. 5. I am able to assess safety risks and determine needed action steps during fire emergencies. 6. I have the physical strength and endurance needed for different firefighting tasks. 7. I am familiar with the standard operating procedures for firefighting operations. 8. I can determine necessary rescue methods under difficult emergency situations. 9. I am trained in providing basic life support to victims of fire emergencies. 10. I know how to investigate fire incidents to determine origin and cause. C. Morale and Job Satisfaction 4 3 2 1 1. I feel that my work is valued by my supervisors and the public I serve 2. I feel satisfied in my current role and position. 3. I find my duties and responsibilities personally fulfilling. 4. I feel that my opinions and inputs are considered in decision making related to policies or operations. 5. There are opportunities for career advancement based on merit and performance. 6. Our station has good working atmosphere that enables effective teamwork. 7. I receive support from my colleagues that helps me manage work-related stress and difficulties. 8. There is open communication between upper management and lower-ranking personnel about important issues. 9. My compensation and benefits package is at par with industry standards and sufficient for daily needs. 10. Necessary measures are implemented to ensure safety of personnel during operations 27 D. Workload and Stress 4 3 2 1 1. I feel overwhelmed by the number of emergency calls I respond to daily. 2. I feel stressed from long duty hours of work. 3. There are sufficient personnel in our station to share the workload. 4. I am able to get enough rest and sleep in between emergency calls and duties. 5. The paperwork/reporting requirements do not take too much time that negatively affects our operations. 6. There is suffiicient break period in between shifts to avoid work burnout. 7. Rotation schedules are designed to allow enough rest and recovery periods for personnel. 8. Programs are available to help personnel cope with psychological impact and stress due to nature of work. 9. Emergency workload and duties are distributed appropriately among available personnel. 10. Our station has enough personnel to provide coverage without relying too much on overtime duties. Thank you very much for your response. Rest assured that your answers will be treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality. We appreciate your time and hope you have a wonderful day! Sincerely, Miranda, Jerry Mar A. Santiago, Hendrich S. Rirao, Arjay S. Tuazon, Jerald Y. Roquero, John Vernon 28