Risk Perception and Disaster Awareness as Predictors of Disaster Preparedness among College Students

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study is to determine whether risk perception and disaster awareness predict students’ disaster preparedness. Simple random sampling was used, which included 236 students. Through non-experimental quantitative descriptive-correlational research technique, validated questionnaire, Mean, Pearson-Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (Pearson-r) and Simple Linear Regression; results showed that risk perception and disaster awareness among students were high or oftentimes manifested while the level of disaster preparedness was very high or always manifested. The results also revealed that risk perception and disaster awareness were significantly correlated with disaster preparedness. Additionally, only disaster awareness predicts disaster preparedness, which emphasizes the importance of education and information dissemination in improving disaster preparedness. Therefore, the researchers concluded that efforts to increase disaster awareness through educational programs, public service announcements, or school drills could lead to better preparedness and potentially save lives and resources when disasters occur. It was recommended that future researchers may conduct studies to evaluate the effectiveness of existing disaster preparedness policies.