Household Preparedness Research Articles

Physical vulnerability assessment and household preparedness of Buea Municipality to seismic hazards from Mount Cameroon Eruptions: A cause for concern

Physical vulnerability assessment and household preparedness of Buea Municipality to seismic hazards from Mount Cameroon Eruptions: A cause for concern

Estimation of disease outbreak vulnerability index (DOVI) and resilience index (DORI) at household-level among states of India, (2019–21)

Resilience at the household level is crucial to reduce the impact of disease outbreaks among the mass population. The intensity and nature of preparedness of households are affected by the socio-economic disparities. This study aimed to measure the level of household resilience, by place of residence across states of India. From India's Demographic Health Survey (DHS) data, 12 indicators were taken, representing the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), physical distancing, energy and communication, and economic security dimensions. Alkire and Foster's Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) method was used to compute the Disease Outbreak Vulnerability Index (DOVI) and Disease Outbreak Resilience Index (DORI). Results displayed that 0.166 of households were found vulnerable and 0.834 of households were found resilient towards disease outbreaks. Rural households (0.175) were found more vulnerable than urban households (0.144), notably, in the WASH, and energy-communication dimensions, however, urban households were vulnerable in physical distancing and household economic security. Kerala, Goa, Lakshadweep, Ladakh, and Jammu & Kashmir states revealed higher resilience, whereas, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, NCT Delhi, Maharashtra, Chandigarh, and Andhra Pradesh states showed the least resilience towards disease outbreak. This study has suggested that policymakers should focus on the WASH, electricity, and mass-media services among rural households and physical distancing, and economic security among urban households, to increase resilience and preparedness for future outbreaks, and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3. D, by the end of 2030.

Compound crisis communication and household preparedness: Examining the effects of evidence type and crisis message fatigue

AbstractWhile existing crisis management research primarily approaches crisis communication from a single‐event perspective, this study provides initial evidence for communication about compound crises. To this purpose, we conducted a nationally representative survey experiment among U.S. residents (N = 670) to examine the effects of communication about compound crisis events on message fatigue and household preparedness. The study did not find support for the negative effects of communication about compound crises on message‐induced crisis fatigue and household preparedness intention. An additional analysis revealed that effects of the messages about compound crisis events are contingent upon the participants' level of past crisis experience, past crisis preparedness, accumulated fatigue from previous crises, and the type of evidence presented. Our findings revealed that individuals with higher past crisis experience exhibited higher crisis message fatigue and greater household preparedness intention. However, caution is warranted when interpreting these findings. The respondents' perceived distinction between compound and single crisis preparedness lacked conceptual clarity, possibly due to the ongoing influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Household preparedness for multi-natural hazards in coastal communities

Natural hazards have generated significant human and economic losses throughout history. This issue concerns the Pacific Ring of Fire (PRF) coastal cities. Chile is located on the PRF and is one of the countries with the highest seismic activity in the world. Consequently, this has resulted in a high seismic culture among the inhabitants but less knowledge and awareness of other threats, such as hydrometeorological events. Therefore, this study assessed household preparedness for multiple natural hazards in two coastal cities in Chile.To achieve this goal, we used the results of a survey conducted on a statistically representative sample of two of the main coastal cities in Chile: Valparaíso (n = 548) and Concepción (n = 585). The survey assessed household preparedness, participation in preparedness activities, and sociodemographic variables.The results showed that regardless of the study area, people perceive they are more prepared for earthquakes/tsunamis than fires and floods. Inhabitants from both cities rarely participate in preparedness activities, evidencing the importance of encouraging community members to become involved in activities to learn skills and strategies to cope with multiple hazards. Finally, the results show significant differences in preparedness based on sociodemographic characteristics; middle-aged adults declare participating more in disaster-related activities and being more prepared at home against earthquakes, tsunamis, and fires. The implications of these findings to prepare communities are discussed.

Tailoring Household Disaster Preparedness Interventions to Reduce Health Disparities: Nursing Implications from Machine Learning Importance Features from the 2018-2020 FEMA National Household Survey.

Tailored disaster preparedness interventions may be more effective and equitable, yet little is known about specific factors associated with disaster household preparedness for older adults and/or those with African American/Black identities. This study aims to ascertain differences in the importance features of machine learning models of household disaster preparedness for four groups to inform culturally tailored intervention recommendations for nursing practice. A machine learning model was developed and tested by combining data from the 2018, 2019, and 2020 Federal Emergency Management Agency National Household Survey. The primary outcome variable was a composite readiness score. A total of 252 variables from 15,048 participants were included. Over 10% of the sample self-identified as African American/Black and 30.3% reported being 65 years of age or older. Importance features varied regarding financial and insurance preparedness, information seeking and transportation between groups. These results reiterate the need for targeted interventions to support financial resilience and equitable resource access. Notably, older adults with Black racial identities were the only group where TV, TV news, and the Weather Channel was a priority feature for household disaster preparedness. Additionally, reliance on public transportation was most important among older adults with Black racial identities, highlighting priority needs for equity in disaster preparedness and policy.

On your own, together: Regional perspectives on community resource-sharing for disaster preparedness in Washington state

ABSTRACT When disasters isolate communities from external support, their members must turn to each other for mutual assistance. This study explores (1) resource management, (2) information sharing, and (3) community leadership and civic participation as dimensions of peer-to-peer sharing for more efficient distribution of local resources under “islanded” conditions. Interviews with members and leaders of three neighborhood-scale communities in Washington state revealed concerns about household preparedness and stockpiling of resources, but also the potential to lever individuals’ community knowledge, social networks, and willingness to participate. Future interventions might include enhancing place-based social infrastructure for resource and information sharing; online local databases and applications that normally maintain privacy but “unlock” important household information for community use in emergencies; and programs that help individuals access and adopt leadership and participation roles. Satisfying these requirements for successful disaster prepared ness also aligns with the goals of everyday community-building and strengthening of collective capacity.

Sustainable Earthquake Preparedness: A Cross-Cultural Comparative Analysis in Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia

Authorities and governmental bodies strongly emphasize the importance of residents preparing for natural disasters, particularly underscoring the significance of readiness for geophysical hazards like earthquakes. In this study, which represents comparative quantitative research, the levels and predictors of the impact on preparedness for earthquake-induced disasters in South-Eastern European countries such as Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia are examined. Using the snowball sampling technique (online questionnaire), a survey of 1245 respondents (Montenegro (n = 400), North Macedonia (n = 345), and Serbia (n = 500) was conducted from February 2023 to February 2024. The paper is based on the central hypothesis that the most significant predictor of earthquake preparedness in Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia is age, followed by education and gender. Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine the extent to which five scores of the subscales (household preparedness, community preparedness, disaster preparation, earthquake risk awareness, and reinforced house) were associated with seventh demographic and socio-economic variables. In addition to the mentioned analysis, other statistical analyses such as t-test, one-way ANOVA analysis, and Pearson correlation were also utilized. The results indicate that age emerges as a predictor in various aspects of earthquake-induced disaster preparedness and awareness in most models, followed by education and gender. These findings confirm the significance of respondents’ age in determining levels of preparedness and earthquake awareness. Overall, in North Macedonia, respondents recorded the highest ratings (M = 3.52) for household preparedness for earthquakes, compared to Serbia (M = 3.26) and Montenegro (M = 2.98), where the lower ratings were recorded. Research findings, taking into account cultural characteristics, can serve as a basis for the development of targeted interventions, strategies, policies, and programs aimed at improving the level of societal preparedness for earthquake-induced disasters.

Earthquake recommendations in Europe: Types and diversity

Disaster literature agrees that knowledge alone is insufficient to promote the adoption of preparedness by populations. Nevertheless, this is a prerequisite for initiating behaviour. Governments and Civil Protection authorities are among the multiple sources of information on preparedness and appropriate disaster behaviours. If these sources are trusted, members of the public will accept the information they transmit. However, few studies have addressed the content of risk communication messages from European authorities. We analysed and discussed the frequency and diversity of household earthquake preparedness and response measures recommended by European Civil Protection authorities in countries exposed to seismic risk, using 84 official website documents and texts from 25 countries. Authorities highly recommended behaviours to apply during an earthquake, focusing on physical protection and conforming to the literature. However, official recommendations weakly recommended planning measures, a well-established preparedness component in the literature. Furthermore, authorities failed to reinforce skill acquisition, insurance acquisition, structural mitigation, and other mitigation measures. Nevertheless, non-structural mitigation was highly advised and was more frequent than stockpiling recommendations. The results also pointed to concerns about the behaviour of residents during and after an earthquake, misinformation, and to the diversity of measures in each country, disagreeing with previous research. Local differences and factors related to the process of selecting recommendations may explain the results. This study contributes to the literature on earthquake recommendations, risk communication, household preparedness and response, and practical applications of preparedness and response literature.

Assessment of Disaster Preparedness at the Household Level in a Pediatric Cardiology Clinic Population.

Natural and human-provoked disasters pose serious health risks to children, particularly children and youth with special healthcare needs, including many cardiology patients. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides preparedness recommendations for families, but little is known about recommendation adherence. Caregivers of children seen in a pediatric cardiology clinic network were recruited to complete an electronic survey. Participants self-reported child medical history and their household's implementation of AAP recommended disaster preparedness items. Families received a link to AAP resources and a child ID card. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with Fisher's exact and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. 320 caregivers participated in the study, of whom 124 (38.8%) indicated that their child has a diagnosed cardiac condition, and 150 (46.9%) indicated that their child had special healthcare needs. The average preparedness item completion rate was 70.7% for household preparedness, 40.1% for reunification preparedness, and 26.3% for community preparedness. Households of children with medical needs had similar rates of preparedness compared to overall rates. Of all respondents, 27.8% previously received disaster preparedness resources, 67.7% would like resources on discussing disaster preparedness, and 93.0% intend to talk with their household about disaster preparedness after completing the survey. These results demonstrate a gap between AAP recommendations and household-level disaster preparedness, including patients with cardiac conditions and those with special healthcare needs. Families expressed that they were interested in getting resources for disaster preparedness. Pediatric cardiologists may consider asking about disaster preparedness and providing disaster preparedness resources tailored to the needs of their patients.

Flood preparedness and utilization of early warning systems among households in selected flood-prone areas in Tagum City, Davao Del Norte

Flooding presents a significant threat to infrastructure, property, and lives worldwide, with Barangay San Miguel in Tagum City, Davao Del Norte, standing out as particularly vulnerable. Therefore, assessing household preparedness and early warning system effectiveness is vital. A survey sampled 99 respondents using the Slovin formula. Household preparedness was evaluated based on indicators like first aid kit readiness, evacuation plans, food supplies, and participation in seminars. Early warning systems' effectiveness was assessed through indicators such as localized flood warnings, electronic systems, flyers, and direct communication. Results showed commendable overall preparedness (mean: 3.75), but shortcomings in seminars (2.74) and flyers (2.06). Policymakers should prioritize enhancing knowledge via targeted training and allocate resources to improve warning systems. This approach aims to strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to flooding in Barangay San Miguel and similar areas.

Structure of Disaster Preparedness Motivation and Its Relationship with Disaster Preparedness Behaviors

AbstractThis study investigated the motivations related to autonomous and continuous disaster preparedness from the viewpoint of self‐determination theory (SDT). Study 1 was a bottom‐up investigation to capture the structure of motivation. Four hundred people who had already engaged in preparedness answered an open‐ended question concerning the reason for their preparedness. After categorizing the descriptions, four distinct categories (personal significance, avoidance of negative affect, introjection of social norms, and other‐oriented motivation) were extracted. Study 2 developed survey items, based on the four categories extracted in Study 1 and a conceptual definition of the theory, and examined their relationships with disaster preparedness. Five hundred and sixty people answered the questions on disaster preparedness motivation (32 items), autonomous disaster preparedness (four items), household preparedness (10 items), and continuous preparedness (10 items). Factor analysis of motivation extracted four factors (personal significance and avoidance of negative affect, introjection of social norms, intimate other‐orientation, and general other‐orientation). Correlation analysis showed that all motivations were positively correlated with autonomous, household, and continuous preparedness. The results contribute to extending the scope of application of SDT and to clarifying the motivations corresponding to disaster preparedness. For future studies, strategies to promote disaster preparedness are discussed.

‘We knew a cyclone was imminent’: Hazard preparedness and disaster management efficiency nexus in coastal Bangladesh

Natural hazard-prone countries in the global south adopted an anticipatory-preparedness approach in disaster risk reduction (DRR) by shifting away from the response and rehabilitation approach. It was highly associated with the policy recommendations of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) framework. Nevertheless, challenges remained in managing disaster risks due to heterogeneous efficiency among disaster managers. This research examines the institutional effectiveness of the disaster management agency in cyclone-prone areas in southwestern coastal Bangladesh through network analysis. This research also explores institutional efficiency's impact on household preparedness in mitigating losses. We collected two distinct data sets from the local Union Disaster Management Committee (UDMC) and households in the same operational area of UDMC that were at risk of cyclonic disasters. To evaluate the effectiveness of local disaster management institutions, we conducted structured interviews with 336 representatives, spanning eight UDMCs in the cyclone-prone regions. To assess the impact of institutional performance (specifically, the UDMCs) on household disaster preparedness and loss mitigation, we collected data from 696 at-risk households. These households were located within the operational zones of the eight UDMCs, and the data was obtained using a structured questionnaire. Based on the application of social network analysis, our findings demonstrated that UDMC members were more active in the aftermath of disasters, as confirmed by three centrality measures - degree, eigenvector, and betweenness. Consequently, upon employing the Negative Binomial and Poisson regression models, we found a positive association between household engagement with UDMCs and participation in disaster preparedness training. This training appeared to enhance the knowledge and capacity of the respondents. The spill-over effects from disaster preparedness appeared to bolster the resilience of at-risk households, assist them in avoiding disaster-induced damages, and maintain consumption stability in the wake of disasters.

Household preparedness for emergencies during COVID-19 pandemic among the general population of Nepal.

The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the global economy affecting numerous people's livelihoods. Despite preventive behaviors and advancements of vaccination, the risk of infection still exists due to the emergence of new variants of concern and the changing behavior of the SARS CoV-2 virus. Therefore, preparedness measures are crucial for any emergency. In such situations, it is important to understand preparedness behavior at the household level, as it aids in reducing the risk of transmission and the severity of the disease before accessing any external support. Our study aimed to evaluate household preparedness level for emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic and its relationship with socio-demographic characteristics among the general population of Nepal. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey. Descriptive statistics, a Chi-square test, and logistic regression model were used for analysis. The study demonstrated that 59.2% had a good preparedness level. Good preparedness was observed among the respondents living in urban areas, those who were married, had white-collar occupations, high-education with graduate and above and high-income levels with monthly income >NPR 20,000, and were young-aged. The study findings underscore the need to develop tailored programs on preparedness prioritizing vulnerable population. It further highlights the importance of proper and consistent information flow, resources distribution, capacitating human resources and better health surveillance.

Disaster risk perception and preparedness of households in Yangon, Myanmar: Disaster experiences, socio-demographic factors and spatial variation

In disaster-prone countries, it is of great concern that societies as a whole, as well as households and individuals, should become as resilient to disasters as possible. In Myanmar, with its frequent natural hazards like floods, cyclones and droughts and its high probability of earthquakes, raising awareness of and preparedness for disasters is of eminent importance in order to increase the resilience of society, households and individuals. Disaster research shows that the awareness and perception of people regarding disasters and thus also their risk preparedness can vary substantially. This seems to stem from various sources: the socio-demographic characteristics of households and people as well as former experiences of disaster seem to play a crucial role. Information of such variables and understanding how they influence the disaster risk perception and preparedness of households and people can provide an important background against which to improve individual disaster risk awareness and preparedness – with the final aim of making society, households and individuals more resilient. In this paper, the results of a household survey carried out in eight townships of Yangon (Myanmar) are presented. The analysis investigates how socio-demographic characteristics and the previous experiences of disaster of the respondents and their households influence their disaster risk perception and preparedness in different areas of Yangon City. The results show strong differences in disaster risk perception and preparedness according to socio-demographic characteristics and previous experiences of disaster in different areas of Yangon City. Finally, the findings feed into and inform about successful disaster management.

The key role of risk perception in preparedness for oil pipeline accidents in urban areas: A sequential mediation analysis

Effective disaster risk reduction requires conducting research within communities that gave recognized natural or technological risks, to foster the development of more resilient societies. However, limited information is available regarding risk perception and preparedness for technological hazards in disaster-prone urban areas of South America. The aim of this study is to investigate the factors that influence public risk perception regarding the Trans-Ecuadorian Oil Pipeline System and its relationship with household preparedness for a potential accident in the Metropolitan District of Quito (Ecuador). We assess the link among knowledge, trust in authorities, risk perception, intention to prepare, and preparedness. Results from a sequential mediation analysis reveal that risk perception partially and positively mediates the relationship between knowledge and preparedness and acts as a negative full mediator between the latter and trust. These findings provide valuable information for future risk governance and communication strategies, aimed at enhancing risk perception and improving individual preparedness of individuals, as well as risk mitigation procedures.

Drivers of disaster planning among African-American households

PurposeThe paper seeks to explore the drivers of disaster planning in African-American households. While the paper is exploratory, the authors attempt to dialogue with substantial theoretical and applied research around vulnerability and disaster. Race, ethnicity and vulnerability are issues deeply entangled with American disaster preparedness and response. In this study, the authors hope to illuminate the threads which bind them together and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between race, ethnicity, class and preparedness.Design/methodology/approachData for this project come from a disaster planning question placed on the 2020 Collaborative Multiracial Post-Election Survey (CMPS). The authors analyze a split sample of around 5,000 African-American households descriptively and with multinomial logistic regression.FindingsDisaster planning among African-American households is a product of past experiences, concern about other hazards, social trust and gender identity. These results are similar to other findings within the study of household preparedness and help to advance the understanding of predictors within the African-American community. Key drivers such as income, education level, gender identity, social trust and perceptions of other risks are consistent with previous studies.Originality/valueThis project is the first to examine issues of disaster planning utilizing a national sample of African-American households via the one-of-a-kind 2020 CMPS.

ENHANCING DISASTER PREPAREDNESS IN ANGELES CITY: INSIGHTS, GAPS, AND COMMUNITY RESILIENCE

This research, conducted in Angeles City, Philippines, delves into the state of disaster and emergency preparedness among households. Employing a descriptive survey methodology, the study draws from influential scholars in the field to inform its approach. Focused on households with at least one member aged 18 or older, the study employs a well-structured questionnaire, combining multiple-choice and open-ended questions, to collect data on disaster risk awareness, hazard exposure, knowledge levels, and community-government relationships. The findings reveal a varied landscape of household preparedness within Angeles City. While most households enjoy basic amenities and reasonable living standards, disparities in preparedness levels exist. Participants exhibit a strong awareness of and concern for natural disasters but express the need for enhanced education and information sharing. A significant finding is the role of community engagement in effective disaster response and recovery. Moderate community involvement is associated with better access to government resources and programs, presenting opportunities for strategic investments to boost engagement. Additionally, the study uncovers a moderate positive correlation between household characteristics and preparedness levels, emphasizing the need for tailored policies for diverse demographic groups. The study recommends enhancing public education, information sharing, and crisis management skills within the community and advocates for fostering collaboration, trust, and confidence among residents to encourage active participation in disaster preparedness initiatives. It emphasizes the necessity of targeted policies aligned with household characteristics and community involvement. The methodology used provides valuable insights for understanding and improving disaster preparedness in Angeles City and highlights the need for ongoing research and intervention to enhance overall resilience. KEYWORDS: Disaster Management, Disaster Resiliency, Household in Angeles City

Geographic Variation in Household Disaster Preparedness in the United States

Disaster events, such as floods, wildfires, and earthquakes, increasingly cause damage to livelihoods, the economy, and the environment. Preparing for disasters is noted as one of the most effective ways to adapt and increase resilience to these events, but research has shown that many people in the United States have not adopted recommended household preparedness actions. Moreso, there is currently no geospatial data set or tool for mapping geographic variation in disaster preparedness behavior, despite the availability of appropriate survey data. Using the Federal Emergency Management Agency National Household Survey from 2017 to 2020, we develop a multilevel regression and poststratification model that provides estimates at the state, county, and zip-code tabulation area scales of several preparedness actions and a general disaster preparedness index. Results show regional and state-level variation among preparedness levels, with the Southeast and Utah being generally more prepared than other regions of the United States. Additionally, we introduce an online interactive mapping tool for these results that practitioners, academics, and the public can use to identify preparedness levels in their area of interest. The outcomes of this study can be used to inform future work in hazard risk assessment and to further develop comparisons between risk perceptions and hazard preparedness. Finally, findings from this study contribute to the suite of geospatial models and methods used to assess the human dimensions of hazard risk and resilience.

A cross-sectional survey of Australian service providers’ emergency preparedness capabilities

Purpose Emergency and disaster management planning is an emerging role with limited practical guidance on how it should be implemented by community, disability, health and rehabilitation service providers. This study examined the emergency preparedness of service providers and how they viewed their role and contributions to disaster risk reduction, including their capacity and willingness to facilitate preparedness planning with their clients. Materials and Methods A questionnaire was developed and administered nationally. Descriptive statistics, multivariate regression analyses, and thematic analysis of open-ended questions provide insight on the knowledge, tools and training needs of service providers to contribute to preparedness of themselves and the people they support. Results Facilitating emergency preparedness with people with disability was strongly associated with a high level of mental preparedness, household preparedness scores, and completion of Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness (P-CEP) training. Perceived lack of funding, insufficient tools, and exclusion of emergency planning from job descriptions were negatively associated with facilitating emergency preparedness with clients. Conclusions Study findings lay the groundwork for development of the role and capabilities of individual service providers including the need to equip disability, health and rehabilitation service providers with training and tools to prepare themselves and the people they support for emergencies.

Retirement Planning: A Brief Snapshot Of The Demographic Factors Influencing The Choice Of Investments For Planning Your Retirement

Establishing a comfortable life in retirement from a personal and financial outlook is a very intricate exercise that calls for careful planning and years of perseverance. Retirement strategy differs from other forms of investment strategies given that it empowers people to have financial independence and, consequently, lead a contented and happy life even when they are not working. From this perspective, it becomes evident that being poorly prepared in terms of finances for retirement might only diminish the value of a retired life. When it comes to retirement planning, there are a number of factors that can influence one's investment choices. It is important to carefully consider these factors in order to make informed decisions and ensure long-term financial stability. By taking a thoughtful and strategic approach to retirement planning, individuals can best position themselves for a comfortable and secure retirement. The primary intention of this paper is to offer a brief literature review by focusing on several factors which influence the financial strategies and investment plan of people for their post-retirement lives. The current study seeks to look into why some persons are capable of planning for retirement while others are unable to do so. The factors that influenced the decisions regarding retirement planning were found to be age, gender, marital status, education and income. The most significant factor that explained the diversity in retirement savings of people turned out to be the income and education. The retirement planning and financial preparedness of households with greater levels of education and income were revealed to be superior. The study revealed that young people and women trailed behind in their retirement preparation and are less conscious of it.