Level of Disaster Preparedness and Policy Implementation in Public Secondary Schools in Rhamu Town, Madera County, Kenya

This study sought to examine the level of disaster preparedness and policy implementation in secondary schools in Rhamu Town, Mandera County. Descriptive research designs were used to conduct the study. Combinations of purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were used to draw 20 principals and 130 teachers yielding a total sample size of 150 subjects. Research instruments used for data collection included questionnaires, interview schedules and observation checklists. The study established that very few schools were aware of disaster response and preparedness mechanisms. Among the indicators of disaster preparedness reported in decreasing order of magnitude were: adequate emergency exits, alertness, having adequate exit routes, hiring security persons from recognized firms and ensuring schools had adequate disaster equipment such as fire extinguishers. It was concluded that schools can neutralize imminent disasters or minimize their effects through enhanced disaster preparedness. The study recommended that schools should ensure that disaster preparedness is achieved and maintained through a continuous cycle of planning, organizing, training, equipping, exercising, evaluating, and taking corrective action (168 words)