Disaster Risk Reduction Management: Its Impact on Elementary Pupils' Level of Preparedness During Hazards

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

A comprehensive disaster risk management strategy will actively involve stakeholders at all levels of government as well as the private sector, local communities, and civil society. The school that is located near the seashore is prone to hazards like tsunami and earthquake. It is very important that all children will be aware of the Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM). Adapted from GFDRR (2014a) Disasters are emergencies that cannot be handled by those affected without outside assistance. Responsibility for disaster risk management does not lie with disaster managers alone. It is rather a concern for everyone—from citizens who must be empowered to make decisions which reduce risk, to political leaders, government institutions, the private sector, civil society organizations, professional bodies, and scientific and technical institutions.

METHODS

This study used the descriptive-correlational method of research. It described the impact of the Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) to the level preparedness of elementary pupils during hazards or disasters. The Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) interventions such as early warning system evacuation plan and others such as tsunami drill, earthquake drill and fire drill used by the DRRM team to the elementary pupils in Rudes Elementary School.

RESULTS

Based on the data gathered, there is a significant impact on the elementary pupils, level of preparedness. It was found that elementary pupils have a high level of awareness about the mitigation of Disaster Risk Reduction Management. Based on data, they are prepared for hazards. They are well informed of the early warning system and evacuation plan. They know how to give first aid if somebody is injured during hazards. The researcher came up with an action plan to ensure that the elementary pupils are well-informed with the implementation of the DRRM.

DISCUSSIONS

Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) is a quarterly or annual activity that should not be neglected in the school. Rudes Elementary School was evaluated and identified as a probable hazard zone or area and the necessity for preparedness is emphasized. In order for the pupils to become fully aware of the accompanying risks when calamities like earthquake and tsunami. The researcher as the in-charge of Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) comes up with an action plan that will capacitate the school children during hazards with the partnership of the local government unit (LGU) (Department of Education) to strengthen the activities and measures that will be taken in advance to ensure that there will be a noticeable impact on the awareness and preparedness of the school children.