Enhancing safety measures at the Kintampo Waterfalls in Ghana: A post-disaster evaluation

Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the safety measures put in place at Kintampo Waterfalls in Ghana following the March 18,2017, natural disaster,which led to the death of eighteen (18) students,with three (3) others sustaining varying degrees of injury. The study used a case study design. Through the observation methodand interview, data was gathered to assess the safety and security measures at Kintampo Waterfalls. The study revealed that safety signs, a first aid box, a fire extinguisher, a washroom, dustbins, tour guides, security personnel, visitors seating, and an emergency unit were available at the site. However, CCTV cameras, metal detectors, emergency response teams, and ambulances were not available. The study findings imply that destination management has attempted to improve safety and security practices at the site after the incident to avert any future occurrences. The study recommends that destination management should endeavor to provide CCTV cameras, metal detectors, permanent ambulanceservice, permanent police personnel, and an emergency response team to deal with any situation that may arise at the destination. The findings of the study provide current data on the state of Kintampo Waterfalls after the disaster to policymakers, destination managers, and the general public.