How Prepared and Aware Are Students Toward Disaster Risks?

Abstract

Background: School-age children are among the most vulnerable groups to the impacts of disasters. Strengthening their awareness and preparedness is crucial to minimizing risks and enhancing disaster resilience. Understanding the relationship between disaster mitigation awareness and preparedness can inform the development of effective school-based disaster education programs.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the relationship between disaster mitigation awareness and disaster preparedness among school students.

Methods: This research used a correlational analytic design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 154 students were selected using proportional random sampling. Data were collected using the Disaster Mitigation Awareness questionnaire and the General Disaster Preparedness Scale: Indonesian Version. Statistical analysis was conducted using  Spearman’s rho correlation test.

Results: The analysis revealed a correlation coefficient (r)= 0.185 with a p-value= 0.04 (p<0.05), indicating a significant positive relationship between disaster mitigation awareness and disaster preparedness among students. This means that students with higher disaster mitigation awareness tend to demonstrate better disaster preparedness.

Conclusion: There is a significant positive correlation between disaster mitigation awareness and disaster preparedness among students. Strengthening school-based disaster education and regular simulation programs is recommended to further improve students’ readiness and resilience in facing potential disasters.