Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of this study is to identify and analyze the factors that contribute to the efficiency of the Turkish fire brigade organization. Methodology: In this study, a qualitative research was conducted using a semi-structured interview technique with 13 fire brigade chiefs. Socio-demographic and health information of the fire brigade chiefs were prepared in a standardized format, and then an open-ended question "What are your opinions and suggestions for increasing the efficiency of fire brigade organizations?" was asked. As a result, 26 different suggestions for increasing efficiency were gathered and evaluated based on their content, and categorized under 7 main topics (equipment, budget, legislation, human resources management, collaboration, standardization, organization), and analyzed. Findings: In this study, 26 different suggestions identified by the fire brigade chiefs for increasing the efficiency of fire brigade organizations were examined. Among these factors, ensuring standardization in fire brigade organizations, making professional regulations for fire brigade personnel, determining the norm staff numbers and enforcing occupancy requirements for these positions, establishing fire academies to train qualified fire brigade personnel, taking a leading role in disaster response for fire brigade organizations, and finally, creating a fire brigade law were the most emphasized factors. It is believed that improving these factors will enhance the efficiency of fire brigade organizations in Türkiye. Originality: While the literature studies on the fire department in Türkiye focus on efficiency, there is no study based on the opinions of the fire department heads. It is thought that this study can be a resource for policy makers to make regulations and determine strategies to increase the efficiency of fire departments.

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