Approaches to Enhance the Abilities of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Officials in Local Administrative Organizations in Mueang District, Phichit Province

Abstract

This study aimed to 1) examine the level of competency of disaster prevention and mitigation officers in local administrative organizations, 2) compare personal factors affecting the competency of such officers, and 3) investigate recommendations for enhancing their competency in Mueang District. This research employed a quantitative approach. The population consisted of 132 disaster prevention and mitigation officers working in local administrative organizations. The research instrument was a 
questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics, namely t-test and F-test.
The results revealed that 
1) the overall competency of disaster prevention and mitigation officers in local administrative organizations was at a high level
2) personal factors, including gender, age, educational level, and job position, significantly affected the officers’ perceptions of their competency
3) enhancing the competency of disaster prevention and mitigation officers is critically important, as local administrative organizations serve as frontline agencies in responding to disaster situations. The development of knowledge and skills, effective inter-agency collaboration, and the provision of appropriate equipment and tools can improve operational efficiency and timeliness, reduce losses caused by disasters, and enhance the safety of life and property of the public, thereby strengthening community resilience in coping with disasters.