ASSESSING THE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS OF INHABITANTS OF MONTSERRADO COUNTY, LIBERIA

Abstract

Many communities continue to suffer from different forms of disasters, ranging from Flood, fire outbreaks, wind, and health-related disasters. The study was done in Montserrado County, Liberia, and sought to determine the proportion of homes actively prepared for possible emergencies, the proportion of households that get disaster intervention provided by the Government of Liberia during the time of the disaster, and the primary source of disaster information amongst various outlets. A community-based cluster sampling method was employed. Fifteen clusters were randomly selected, and we distributed 900 questionnaires, of which 791 came back. 90% of respondents heard about the disaster before, with about 32% of them being affected by a disaster. Only 17% discussed disaster at home, with 93% of all responsible family members not being current in First Aid. Less than 1% of family members know how to use fire extinguishers. 50% of respondents got information through the radio/TV stations (37%) of respondents rely on family and friends for information. 1% of the families expect government interventions, 28% from neighbors/community, and 14% from the Liberian Red Cross. 8% of families depend on themselves, with another 8% not knowing where to seek help. To conclude, some households have been directly affected by a disaster. However, the majority are not prepared for disaster. National disaster response agencies, such as the Disaster Management Agency and the National Fire Service, need to be empowered to respond to disasters effectively and efficiently. Disaster preparedness in Liberia must incorporate training of community organizations responsible for disaster preparedness and be empowered to provide immediate intervention while calling for outside or national assistance