76% of Poles consider natural disasters a potential threat
date
11 October 2024
category
On the eve of International Disaster Reduction Day, the Polish Red Cross warns: climate change is leading to an increase in natural disaster threats, and nearly 93% of Poles are unsure how to prepare themselves and their families for a disaster. A survey conducted by the PBS research agency on behalf of the Polish Red Cross reveals very concerning conclusions – we expect further calamities and disasters, yet as a society, we are still not prepared for them.
A nationwide study conducted by the PBS research agency on behalf of the Polish Red Cross found that 76% of Poles consider natural disasters and those caused by humans a potential threat to themselves and their families.
Moreover, At the same time
more than half of the respondents (56%) claim that natural disasters currently pose a greater threat than they did 10 years ago. This is understandable, as climate change is causing more frequent extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and severe storms. In light of the growing awareness of these changes, Poles perceive a real danger associated with natural disasters. Despite the increasing awareness, knowledge about effective actions in times of crisis remains limited.
Insufficient preparation for crises
As the authors of the study indicate, nearly 93% of Poles are unsure how to prepare themselves and their families for a disaster, and 88% are not confident that they would manage without access to electricity and mobile networks. These results indicate an urgent need for education on crisis preparedness, as well as the necessity of providing information about the simplest actions that citizens can take to increase their safety.
Climate change causes natural disasters to occur more frequently and with greater intensity, which directly affects the safety of Poles. Our priority is not only to respond to the consequences of these events, but also to educate and prevent, allowing society to be better prepared for future threats.
Low level of knowledge, high need for education
In the PCK study as many as 78% of respondents expressed the need to acquire additional knowledge about disaster preparedness. The results show that Poles are aware of their shortcomings and want to be better prepared. The Polish Red Cross emphasizes the importance of educational activities in its programs – from first aid training, through crisis response training, to cooperation programs with local authorities and organizations.
In recent years, we have observed that Poles are increasingly aware of the dangers posed by natural disasters, yet they still lack the knowledge and tools to respond effectively in such situations. These data show that we still have much to do in terms of education and building resilience. Awareness of threats is the first step, but practical knowledge and skills are also needed to help prepare for the worst. Our goal is not only to assist in times of crisis, but also education that will help people prepare better.
The September flood that affected the southern regions of Poland brought immense material losses and triggered a humanitarian crisis, impacting thousands of residents. In response to this tragic event, the Polish Red Cross (PCK) immediately organized aid activities, providing both material and psychological support.
In the face of floods and other disasters, wise humanitarian efforts come down to partnering with trusted humanitarian organizations that have the knowledge and experience to provide effective assistance. The Polish Red Cross appeals for support to be given thoughtfully, through financial aid that enables a quick and flexible response tailored to the actual needs of those affected. This form of support allows for the rapid delivery of aid to where it is most needed, as well as the profiling of aid activities.
– Financial assistance allows PCK to be flexible and respond quickly – we buy exactly what is needed at that moment, and direct assistance where it is most urgent. Therefore, it is essential that support is provided through experienced organizations that have the structure and resources to effectively carry out rescue and assistance actions. –
– In the face of disaster, there is often a temporary intense wave of interest, which fades over time. But true support begins when the media noise subsides. Residents of flooded areas are now left alone in destroyed homes, looking at empty walls waiting to be rebuilt. They need long-term assistance – not just short visits and one-time support, but ongoing engagement that will help them survive the upcoming winter and eventually return to normalcy..
The study was commissioned by the Polish Red Cross in August this year, involving a group of 2002 respondents. The study was conducted on a representative sample of Poles using the CAWI technique – online interviews on the Poznaj.to research panel.
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