Determining the Disaster Culture That Residents in Hurricane-Prone Areas Have

Over the past five years, the United States has experienced massive hurricanes that have impacted residents’ life adversely. For instance, Hurricane Gilbert destroyed the Gulf Coast in 1988. Therefore, there is a need to design disaster preparedness strategies to curb the destructive effects of extreme weather conditions. In the case study provided, the authors seek to determine the disaster culture that residents in hurricane-prone areas have. The study participants were asked to share their knowledge of any mitigation attempts in the county for the past five years. Researchers aimed to determine their level of education and hands-on experience in disaster management. Respondents were categorized in different demographic aspects, such as race, age, education, and gender. The data collected were analyzed using the chi-square method and percentages. Study results showed that 77% of participants who were high school graduates and 73% of college graduates had basic education on disaster preparedness (Fischer, 2008). 54% of the subjects had coordinated a disaster event at least once. Finally, 80% of respondents who had worked for the military and coordinated rescue missions during floods preferred their children to receive disaster management education (Fischer, 2008). Hence, the case study shows the analysis of disaster preparedness levels in individuals who live in vulnerable areas.’ In my opinion, the study may be improved by increasing the sample size and demographic factors. Additionally, the researchers should limit the type of questions that respondents should answer. Researchers can expand on the study by contacting government bodies to check the disaster mitigation processes they have implemented. Moreover, even the Bible justifies disaster preparedness by stating, ‘But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works. Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works (James 2:18, Holy Bible). Hence, disaster management is essential for enhanced survival chances of vulnerable citizens in the United States. 

References 

Fischer, H. W. (2008).  Response to disaster: Fact versus fiction & its perpetuation : the sociology of disaster  (3rd ed.). University Press of America.