Measuring individual preparedness for flood and bushfire emergencies

Floods and bushfires are escalating in frequency and intensity due to climate change and other contributing factors, leading to significant risks for communities. Individual preparedness plays a vital role in mitigating the impacts of these events; however, improving preparedness requires a thorough understanding of current preparedness levels and identifying areas of weakness. This research addresses a critical knowledge gap by developing standardised self-assessment tools to measure preparedness in response to flood and bushfire emergencies. In addition, this study examines key factors influencing preparedness behaviours using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). Surveys for flood and bushfire preparedness were designed and validated based on expert feedback, and data were collected from Australian residents. The final 11-item flood preparedness scale and 13-item bushfire preparedness scale, along with their corresponding TPB constructs, provide a solid framework for assessing flood and bushfire preparedness levels. Findings show a positive association between preparedness scales and TPB measures. Individuals who perceived their area as high-risk for floods or bushfires, and those with emergency services experience, scored higher on both preparedness and TPB measures. Males had significantly higher preparedness levels for both hazards, while females scored significantly higher on bushfire TPB measures. Younger individuals scored higher on TPB measures, whereas older individuals had significantly higher bushfire preparedness scores. The study also highlighted the gap between attitude and action, with respondents showing higher attitudes toward preparedness but lower risk perception and intentions to prepare, underscoring the need for targeted risk communication strategies. These validated scales serve as practical tools for individuals, researchers, policymakers, and emergency management practitioners to assess preparedness levels and address community vulnerabilities, contributing to the development of safer and more resilient communities.