Current methods mostly provide information about what people need to do but not how to do it. And the information- from many sources and in many mediums- has become so ubiquitous, it is easily ignored.
The key words are “substantive” and “actionable.”
Brochures, flyers, presentations, radio and TV spots etc. will inform people about evacuations. But they don’t include what routes to take, where to go, hazards to avoid (or how to avoid them,) or any other information that is specific to a locality or population. In short, providing general information is not substantive and may prove to be not useful.
To persuade people, one must actively involve them. Current methods keep the general public in a passive role. I believe that Emergency Management officials need to educate the public, not simply inform it. Research shows that there is an increase in participation, knowledge, and retention when adults have the opportunity for active learning, collaborative learning, exercises, and drills. This would take more time and planning, but the benefit of lessening complacency would be well worth it.
Diane