Abstract

People in Dhaka, where disaster risk of earthquake is the most due to its high population density and rapid urbanization, are in extreme danger of earthquake. However, the study on assessment of the real scenario of residents’ perception of earthquake risk is very little. The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to assess the seismic risk perception and preparedness about earthquake among high school students in Savar, Dhaka. A questionnaire has been developed, and data collection has been done about a group of high school students in seven classrooms. The author uses a method of surveying students to identify and describe the factors that influence their knowledge and perception about earthquake. This study examines gender, grade and age differences in perceived risk and communication behavior in response to the earthquake. Female students’ preparation, participation and communication with family are more frequent than those of male students. Female students are found to be more likely to learn about disaster than male ones. Higher grade students have more awareness but less preparedness about earthquake than the younger ones. Students’ hazard awareness increases positively with increment of their age. This research concludes that, high school students are vulnerable to earthquake due to the lack of a seismic education program.

Key words: High school, awareness, earthquake, seismic risk perception, hazard, demographic characteristic.