Appraisal of the Distribution and Nexus of Emergency Response Facilities in Ungogo Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assesses the spatial distribution and interrelationship of emergency response facilities in Ungogo Local Government (LGA), of Kano metropolis facing challenges with emergency services. Previous research on emergency spatial distribution has not adequately examined the relationship among primary healthcare, police services, and fire services facilities. The objective of this paper is to analyze the existing spatial distribution of emergency service facilities in the study area, as well as determine the interrelationship between primary healthcare centers (PHC), fire stations, and police stations. A survey research design was employed, with a population of 42 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Nearest Neighbor Analysis (NNA) was employed, and the findings reveal both clustered and dispersed distribution patterns of PHC and police stations in the LGA. The study identifies a correlation between poor response time in primary healthcare services and the services rendered by the PHC, while the fire station demonstrates the most efficient response time of less than 4 minutes. Pearson correlation analysis confirms a positive relationship among the three emergency service facilities. Based on a 5-kilometer buffer analysis, the distribution of PHC indicates adequacy, whereas the distribution of fire service stations indicates significant inadequacy. The study recommends the provision of adequate facilities in underserved areas and the establishment of a centralized means of communication to enhance emergency coordination.