Safety First at Solo ES: Awareness and Preparedness Level on Disaster Risk Reduction Management of Grade 6 Pupils

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The occurrence of disasters like typhoon, tsunami, and other calamities put life in danger. The high intensity earthquake occurred recently in the place which shocked the community residents, mostly the children, and resulted not only damage of property but also the feelings as well. Great fear creates worries which increased parents’ concern for their children to stay in school. How to be safe in school from the sudden and unpredictable disaster like earthquakeis the most alarming and fearful situation in life because it is beyond one's control. For this, the researcher aims to reduce the risks by knowing the level of awareness and preparedness of grade 6 pupils of Solo Elementary School for them to increase knowledge, be more aware, take part, and be responsible not only for their own safety in school , but also for other members of their family at home and anywhere.

METHODS

The researcher used the descriptive research design in gathering information to measure the level of awareness and preparedness on disasters of fifty-nine (59) grade 6 pupils this school year 2018 -2019. The evaluation tool, the questionnaires distributed, and the data gathered were analyzed to obtain the result.

RESULTS

The level of pupils' awareness and preparedness were determined and measured more seriously. In the study conducted, pupils showed knowledge and awareness on reducing disaster risks. Pupils' awareness on actual actions/involvement to different disaster risks drills, their exposure to designated safe areas, participation to rescue and evacuation activities, hazard mapping, and precautionary measures were followed, done, and strengthened. The result revealed that respondents achieved highest level of awareness on information about different risk reduction and the actual involvement on preparedness was acquired.

DISCUSSIONS

The knowledge of pupils on different disasters risks reduction plan and activities learned from manual, handouts, pamphlets, and other source of information is really of great help as basis to assess their level of awareness and preparedness, but the actual skills, participation, and exposure to risk reduction drills following the safety measures count most. Continuous demonstration and application of preparedness drills really need with scheduled allotted time as best practices in school to sustain their interest in getting involved and to strengthen their decision-making and action in times of disasters to save their own lives and also of their families anytime anywhere.