Risk Perceptions Towards Fire Safety among Occupants of Residential College in a Higher Learning Institution

Abstract

Fire safety in residential colleges remains a critical concern due to high occupancy density, shared facilities, and limited emergency preparedness. Despite the implementation of various safety measures, there remains a scarcity of studies examining the relationship between knowledge, attitude, practice (KAP), and risk perception among occupants of Malaysian residential colleges. This study aims to fill a gap by evaluating fire safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices, as well as risk perception, among 363 students. It employs a cross-sectional survey method utilising a bilingual questionnaire.  The analysis of data included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Pearson’s correlation analysis. The findings demonstrated a high level of knowledge, positive attitudes, and commendable safety practices. However, risk perception was only moderate, suggesting a disconnect between awareness and the readiness to act accordingly. Significant associations were found between age and KAP (p < 0.05) and between ethnicity and fire safety practices (p = 0.030). A weak but significant correlation exists between risk perception and safety practices (r = 0.189, p = 0.000), indicating that awareness alone does not ensure preparedness. The results highlight the necessity for institutional fire safety management to move beyond awareness campaigns by integrating practical drills, simulation-based training, and regular assessments to enhance a proactive safety culture within residential colleges.