Disaster Awareness and Preparedness Behaviors: Evidence from a Case Study in Adana, Turkey

Abstract

Disasters not only cause physical destruction but also deeply affect the social, economic, and psychological structures of societies. Due to its geological characteristics, Turkey is highly vulnerable to many types of disasters, particularly earthquakes. This study examines disaster awareness and preparedness behaviors in the province of Adana. Based on a field survey conducted with 560 participants, individuals’ disaster experiences, preparedness levels, family communication strategies, emergency kit ownership, and levels of trust in institutions were measured.

Findings show that 74% of the participants have been directly or indirectly affected by a disaster. However, despite this high rate of experience, only 29.1% reported having an emergency kit, indicating a low level of societal preparedness. Moreover, the proportion of households with an evacuation plan was found to be only 38%, while participation in volunteerism and community solidarity remained below international standards. These results reveal a significant gap between disaster awareness and preparedness behaviors.

International comparisons demonstrate that in countries advanced in disaster preparedness, such as Japan and the United States, individual preparedness levels are much higher. For example, the proportion of people with an emergency kit is over 90% in Japan and around 60% in the United States. The case of Adana reflects Turkey’s overall disaster preparedness profile and points to strategic deficiencies at the national level. In this context, it is concluded that local governments, non-governmental organizations, and central authorities must work in coordination.