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By Dr. Peter Mwangi, Security Consultant
The tragic fire at Hillside Academy has once again highlighted the urgent need for educational institutions to prioritize fire safety and security measures. This incident mirrors the devastating fires that have occurred in Kenya many times before. On behalf of Guardnow Security Group (K) Ltd, we extend our deepest condolences to the parents who lost their children. As a nation, we have lost part of our future. As the adults responsible for today, we must protect the country we’ve borrowed from our children. The incident is beyond words, leaving everyone speechless—it is profoundly traumatic and deeply painful.
The Safety Standards Manual (2008) for schools, developed by then-Minister Amb. Sam Ongeri, offers important guidelines on school safety, particularly regarding fire incidents. School safety guideline no. 12 is very clear on fire prevention measures. Additionally, Article 239 of the Constitution, which establishes the Security Regulations Act of 2016, emphasizes the role of security firms in safeguarding both people and property. According to the 2016 Act, security providers have a responsibility to protect schools. Installing CCTV cameras and smoke detectors are critical steps to ensuring comprehensive coverage and early fire detection in schools.
Learning from the Past: Key Incidents and Lessons
- Nyeri High School Fire (1999) and the Moi Girls Fire are both tragic examples that resulted in the loss of many lives and exposed significant shortcomings in fire safety protocols. Inadequate fire alarms, poor emergency response plans, and a lack of proper evacuation drills were major issues. Schools must address these gaps to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
- School Fires in 2016: Kenyan authorities documented 130 cases of school fires, primarily linked to student unrest, with 63 arson cases reported in 2018. These incidents revealed a pattern of neglected fire safety standards, including outdated fire alarm systems, insufficient trained staff, and poor coordination with local emergency services. Such occurrences call for a re-evaluation of safety measures and regular updates to fire safety protocols.
According to the Kenya National Crime Research Centre (KNCRC), a 2017 study found that student arsonists were often driven by anger and frustration.
Implementing Effective Security Measures
- Upgrading Fire Alarm Systems: Modern, reliable fire alarm systems are essential. Schools should invest in advanced alarm systems that include both audible alarms and visual indicators. These systems must be regularly tested and maintained to ensure proper function during emergencies. It is crucial to partner with professional security companies that offer emergency alarm response services.
- Emergency Response Plans: Schools need to develop and frequently update comprehensive emergency response plans, as guided by the 2008 school safety manual. These plans should include clear evacuation procedures, designated assembly points, and assigned roles for both staff and students during emergencies. Regular drills help ensure that everyone is familiar with their responsibilities and can act swiftly if a fire occurs.
- Hiring Professional Security Companies: Engaging professional security firms can provide schools with expert guidance on security protocols, such as installing CCTV cameras and conducting risk assessments. These companies can also assist in developing tailored safety plans and providing ongoing staff training. Their expertise is invaluable in creating a secure environment and responding effectively to emergencies. Increased night patrols are especially important, as most fires occur at night.
- Staff and Student Training: Regular fire safety and emergency procedure training for both staff and students is critical. This includes education on the proper use of fire extinguishers, understanding alarm signals, and practicing evacuation drills. Ensuring that everyone is prepared can significantly reduce the risk of injury during an incident.
- Maintenance and Safety Audits: Regular safety audits and maintenance checks are essential, including the installation of smoke detectors. Schools should schedule periodic reviews of fire safety equipment and infrastructure to address potential issues before they become critical. This proactive approach can help identify and rectify problems that could compromise safety.
The fire at Hillside Academy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust security measures in educational institutions. As we reflect on these lessons, let us commit to taking the necessary actions to prevent future tragedies.
Article by Dr. Peter Mwangi, CEO, Guardnow Security Group (K) Ltd
