Earthquake preparedness in schools in seismic hazard regions in the South‐East of Turkey

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to determine the preparedness status of 181 elementary and high schools in four cities located on the East Anatolia Fault Zone of Turkey.

Design/methodology/approach

To determine the status of preparedness, a School Disaster Preparedness Questionnaire with 27 items was administered to the school director or deputy director. The data obtained were analyzed with SPSS Software.

Findings

The results show that there are meaningful differences between the status of school preparedness and school type and allocation units surveyed.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted from April to May 2009, in schools located on the East Anatolia Fault Zone of Turkey. The study was limited to school directors/deputy directors' responses to the School Earthquake Preparedness Form.

Practical implications

Turkey is located in one of the most significant active seismic regions in the world; therefore the probability of a serious earthquake is high. Turkey has a large population of over 60 million, with a large number of children under 16; therefore, it is vital that schools are prepared for disasters. It is possible to reduce the destructive effects of these hazards if people are well prepared.

Originality/value

The research highlights the actual conditions, especially the physical conditions of selected schools in a seismically risky region of Turkey. The results of this study can contribute to the development of disaster plans and preparedness in schools in developing countries. This study aims to raise awareness of school directors to reduce the impact of an earthquake on school buildings and the people inside them.

Citation

Öcal, A. and Topkaya, Y. (2011), "Earthquake preparedness in schools in seismic hazard regions in the South‐East of Turkey", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 20 No. 3, pp. 334-348. https://doi.org/10.1108/09653561111141754