Safety Behaviors Against Earthquakes: A Study of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Earthquake Protection in Khoy, Iran

Mohammad  Heidari; Mohammad  Saadati; MoradAli  Zareipour; Arezoo  Qasemkhanloo; Mehrdad  Karimi

doi:10.18502/ijre.v21i1.19494

Mohammad Heidari Assistant Professor Social, Determinants of Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
Mohammad Saadati Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
MoradAli Zareipour Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
Arezoo Qasemkhanloo Msc, Department of Public Health, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
Mehrdad Karimi Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijre.v21i1.19494

Keywords: Safety behaviors, Earthquake, Knowledge, Attitude, Performance, Protection

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Earthquakes are among the most dangerous natural disasters and can significantly harm human life. Accordingly, public awareness and preparedness for earthquakes are essential. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate earthquake safety behaviors, focusing on knowledge, attitudes, and protective behaviors in Khoy, Iran.

Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional study conducted on 412 people in Khoy city using cluster sampling method. The data collection tool was a researcher-designed questionnaire comprising demographic characteristics and assessments of awareness, attitudes, and protective behaviors against earthquakes. The data were analyzed using the t-test, ANOVA, and backward logistic regression method with Stata 15 software.

Results: The results of the present study indicated that over 66% of individuals had poor knowledge, 42% had an average attitude, and 46% exhibited moderate protective behaviors against earthquakes. The regression model demonstrated that high knowledge increased the likelihood of exhibiting protective behaviors by 1.92 times (OR = 1.92, p = 0.006), while a positive attitude increased this likelihood by 6.12 times (OR = 6.12, p < 0.0001). Also, university education level 2.92 times (p=2.92, OR=0.055) and having previous experience of earthquake 1.89 times (p=0.057, OR=1.89) increase the likelihood of these behaviors.

Conclusion: Considering the low levels of awareness and protective behaviors against earthquakes among the residents of Khoy, educational workshops, and simulation exercises should be organized. Additionally, developing educational content could enhance individuals' preparedness for earthquakes