Differences between the Effects of Direct and Indirect Earthquake Experiences on Disaster Preparedness

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between earthquake experience and preparedness over time, specifically investigating the statistical associations between direct and indirect experiences of infrequent and moderate earthquakes and various preparedness measures. Using survey data from 2018 to 2020, this study identified the relationship between direct/indirect experiences and compliance with emergency preparedness measures, seismic reinforcement, and buying insurance through two-way analysis of variance and regression analysis. Direct experience was significantly associated with all types of preparedness measures, with a substantial improvement in compliance with emergency preparedness measures. In contrast, indirect experience had only a minor association with level of compliance and intention to buy insurance. The so-called dread factor demonstrated a statistically significant relationship with the level of compliance in individuals who had experienced earthquakes directly. These findings provide important insights into the statistical associations between earthquake experiences and various preparedness measures and may have implications for effective policies related to preparedness for infrequent and moderate earthquakes.