Assess the knowledge and awareness of disaster risks among 15 - 60 years old in Chiang Mai

Abstract

Background

Disasters pose critical threats to urbanized provinces in northern Thailand due to rapid urban growth and geographical vulnerability. These areas face various risks like floods, landslides, earthquakes, wildfires, air pollution, accidents, industrial incidents, and disease outbreaks. Effective disaster risk management and emergency response are essential for saving lives, protecting property, and aiding community recovery. These efforts also minimize economic impact, preserve the environment, and support sustainable development.

Objective

To assess both knowledge of and awareness factors predicting disaster risk in residential areas.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional survey research using an online questionnaire (Google Form) conducted from March 15, 2024, to April 30, 2024. It focuses on residents aged 15-60 years living in the northern provinces of Thailand. The study aimed to reach an infinite population and calculated a sample size of 345 individuals using random sampling with an online questionnaire (Google Form).

Results

There were a total of 434 volunteers participating in this study. The majority were female, accounting for 59.68%. The largest age group was 15-20 years old, comprising 54.46%. The highest educational attainment was a bachelor's degree, at 45.85%. Family size ranged mostly from 3-5 members, making up 77.19%. 70.74% had received first aid training, while 60.37% had CPR training. The majority, 51.15%, reported that they could not swim. Regarding disaster risk awareness, 49.08% of the sample had moderate knowledge and awareness. Perception of disaster risk in residential areas was generally low, with 37.56% having low awareness. Knowledge and awareness of disaster risk were predictive factors for perceiving disaster risk in residential areas (Beta = 0.11, p-value <0.05), predicting 11.00% of the variance.

Conclusion

The level of knowledge and awareness of disasters among the population correlates with their past experiences with disasters, which influences their actions in emergency situations. This study underscores the importance of increasing knowledge and preparedness to cope with disasters in all areas, even in the absence of major disasters.