Assessment of the Schools Disaster Preparedness Practices

Abstract

Disaster preparedness is concerned to mitigate the impact of disasters on human lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. This research assessed the extent of disaster preparedness practices in terms of Community Risk Assessment, Contingency Planning, Communication System, and Capacity Building (4Cs) in the District of Panitan, Capiz. It included 209 of 455 participants: 99 elementary; 34 integrated; and 76 secondary school personnel. A modified 40-item questionnaire was used. The descriptive research design employing survey method was used. Statistical tools used were standard deviation, mean, percentage, and frequency. Kruskal Wallis H Test and Mann-Whitney U Test were used to determine significant difference between independent variables and extent of disaster preparedness practices of participants. Results revealed that the District of Panitan was highly prepared for disasters, in general and in terms of 4Cs, when grouped to school profile, and when categorized into school size, type, and location. As to school type, no significant difference found in the extent of disaster preparedness practices among schools in the District of Panitan as to Community Risk Assessment, Communication System, and Capacity Building. However, significant difference found as to Contingency Planning. When grouped to school size, significant difference found in the extent of disaster preparedness among schools as to 4Cs. When grouped to school location, no significant difference found in the extent of disaster preparedness among schools in said District as to 4Cs. Thus, the extent of disaster preparedness provides holistic result essential for saving lives, minimizing damage, fostering resilience, and ensuring swift and effective response to emergencies.