Measures of Disaster Preparedness for a Diverse and Changing Demographic Population

Houston, TX has one of largest and most diverse populations in the country. The task of dealing with large and diverse populations is a challenge for any governmental agency especially in times of emergencies and disasters. Houston Department of Health and Human Services introduced the Disaster Ambassador Preparedness Program (DAPP) to raise awareness and prepare teachers, students, and their families to deal better with emergencies and disasters. The purpose of this study is to compare differences in disaster preparedness beliefs and actions among diverse populations. Second, to discuss potential new approaches of reaching diverse populations. The study identifies ways of determining the most vulnerable populations when dealing with emergency and disaster preparedness. Second, provide best policy development and approach to promote emergency and disaster preparedness between diverse groups. In 2010-2011, thirty schools participated in the DAPP project. Quantitative data was collected from parents on a non-experimental single group pretest-posttest design. Demographic variables are used to determine categorical differences between groups to compare their respective disaster preparedness related to attitudes, knowledge, perceived susceptibility, and actions. Data from the survey instruments are currently being analyzed. The results will be available by the time of the conference. Study findings will reveal answers to the following questions to identify conclusions: 1) Regarding disaster preparedness, what is the best method of message broadcasting to reach different populations? 2) Are there differences in perceived barriers or challenges among populations when preparing for disasters? 3)Which group(s) is more vulnerable in taking action towards disaster preparedness?