A recent study conducted by NRMA Insurance has revealed that more than 6 million Australians are unaware of the local risks associated with extreme weather event. The study found that nearly half or 48% do not know what steps they need to take to prepare for an extreme weather emergency.
The finding shed light on a concerning lack of awareness and preparedness among the population, highlighting the need for increased education and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of these events.
The study, which surveyed a representative sample of the Australian population, aimed to assess the level of knowledge and understnading regarding extreme weather risks. The results were alarming, with over 6 million respondents indicating a lack of awareness about the potential dangers they face in their local areas.
Extreme weather events such as bushfires, floods, heatwaves, and storm, have become increasingly frequent and severe in Australia in recent years. These events pose significant risks to both human lives and infrastructure. making it crucial for individuals to be well-informed and prepared.
The study also revealed regional disparities in awareness, with certain areas showing higher levels of knwoledge compared to others. This highlights the need for targeted educational campaigns and localised risk assessments to ensure that all Australians have access to accurate and relevant information about the specific risks they may face.
Experts emphasize the importance of proactive measures to enhance community resilience and preparedness. This includes developing emergency response plans, investing in early warning systems and promoting community engagement in disaster preparedness initiatives.
Government agencies, non-profit organisations and community leaders play a vital role in raising awareness and providing resources to help individuals and communities prepare for extreme weather events.
The study's findings serve as a wake-up call for policymakers, urging them to prioritise climate change adaptation and invest in initiatives that enhance public awareness and preparedness.
Based on our findings, the awareness of evacuation plans for local and business communities within councils has been rated at 1.7 out of 5, which aligns with the sentiment above.
Additionally, we have found that the extent to which council provides education or trianing in natural hazard impact and disaster risk reduction to schools has received an average score of 1.9 out of 5.
For more information on the study and ways to increase awareness about extreme weather risks, visit NRMA Insurance and see their Help Nation Initiative.
