Ready in the face of danger? Investigating preparation, mitigation, and media dependencies amongst those affected by the 2018 California Wildfires

Kenneth A. Lachlan, PhD; Christine Gilbert, MA; Emily Hutter, MA; Adam Rainear, PhD; Patric R. Spence, PhD

doi:10.5055/jem.0507

Authors

Kenneth A. Lachlan, PhD
Christine Gilbert, MA
Emily Hutter, MA
Adam Rainear, PhD
Patric R. Spence, PhD

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.0507

Keywords:

crisis communication, media, mitigation, Wildfire

Abstract

The current study analyzes information-seeking tendencies, preparation, and mitigation behavior among those impacted by the 2018 Camp Fire and Woolsey Fire in California. Similar to previous work, results suggest that socioeconomic status was a strong positive predictor of having an emergency kit and evacuation plan in place. The internet and television were the two preferred sources of information, while the relative lack of importance of radio, interpersonal communication, and social media runs counter to past research in the area. Implications for emergency management are discussed.

Author Biographies

Kenneth A. Lachlan, PhD

Department of Communication, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut

Christine Gilbert, MA

Department of Communication, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut

Emily Hutter, MA

Department of Communication, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut

Adam Rainear, PhD

Department of Communication and Media, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania

Patric R. Spence, PhD

Nicholson School of Communication, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida

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