Fire safety knowledge and awareness in high-rise residential buildings: an empirical study in China

With population growth, the number of high-rise residential buildings has continuously increased. Consequently, fire safety and evacuation issues in high-rise buildings have gradually garnered public attention. This study conducted an empirical survey to evaluate the fire safety knowledge and awareness among residents of high-rise buildings in China. The questionnaire sample comprised Chinese residents living in high-rise buildings, with a total of 606 valid responses collected and analyzed. The results revealed that while most residents possessed basic knowledge of high-rise building fire safety, their preparedness for fire incidents remained insufficient. It is recommended that stricter enforcement of safety regulations and the implementation of measures to mitigate fire risks in buildings. Based on descriptive statistical analysis, a hierarchical multiple regression analysis was employed to identify key factors influencing residents' fire safety awareness and knowledge. The findings indicated that gender, age, educational level, and participation in fire drills were critical factors affecting residents' fire safety knowledge and awareness. These results provide supportive references for stakeholders to reduce fire risks and associated losses.