Individual preparedness and mitigation actions for a predicted earthquake in Istanbul

Abstract

This study investigated the process of taking action to mitigate damage and prepare for an earthquake at the individual level. Its specific aim was to identify the factors that promote or inhibit individuals in this process. The study was conducted in Istanbul, Turkey--where an earthquake is expected soon--in May and June 2006 using qualitative methods. Within our conceptual framework, three different patterns emerged among the study subjects. Outcome expectancy, helplessness, a low socioeconomic level, a culture of negligence, a lack of trust, onset time/poor predictability, and normalisation bias inhibit individuals in this process, while location, direct personal experience, a higher education level, and social interaction promote them. Drawing on these findings, the paper details key points for better disaster communication, including whom to mobilise to reach target populations, such as individuals with direct earthquake experience and women.

Knowledge Regarding Earthquake Preparedness Among the People of Biratnagar Sub-Metropolis of Eastern Nepal

“…This study revealed significant rela onship between knowledge and educa onal status (p<0.000) which was supported by study conducted by Tekeli-Yesil S et al at Istanbul which showed significant rela onship between knowledge and educa onal status 13 (p=< 0.001). It was further supported by study conducted by 5 Ostad Taghizadeh A et al in 2009.…”

Earthquake awareness and perception of risk among the residents of Istanbul

“…The participants' levels of knowledge about what an earthquake is and how to behave during an earthquake were optimistic, but the level of knowledge about mitigation and preparedness measures was not so promising. Even though the way of asking (spontaneous response versus multiple choices) might be responsible to some extent for this difference, we think that the findings reflect the real situation as we had similar results in a qualitative study in the same study area (Tekeli-Yeşil et al 2010b).…”

“…A study in Turkey has, however, shown that the media have largely failed in advocating mitigation and preparedness to the public (Dedeoglu 2008). On the other hand, people had been usually exposed to information from the media, mostly in times of disasters (Tekeli-Yeşil et al 2010b). Exposure to such information might not necessarily lead individuals to understand, believe or personalize it, and finally to decide on and take action.…”

“…Despite the effectiveness of such measures, people in both developing (Dedeoglu 2006;Kalaça et al 2007) and developed countries (Lehman and Taylor 1987;Lindell and Prater 2000) often fail to adopt them. The findings of our two previous studies, a quantitative study (Tekeli-Yeşil et al 2010a) and a qualitative one (Tekeli-Yeşil et al 2010b), in Istanbul indicated that risk awareness is one of the most crucial factors in the process of taking such action. The findings of the qualitative study showed that the amount of knowledge of the risk and its consequences were considerable, and participants presented a realistic appraisal of the risk.…”

“…However, when it came to preparing for an earthquake or mitigating the consequent damage, people showed less, and in some cases only superficial knowledge of what to do to. Their knowledge was usually derived from statements made by scientists in the media (Tekeli-Yeşil et al 2010b). Additionally, people can access the information about risk zones of the city on the web pages of various institutions and the municipality.…”