Acceptability of a modular, community-informed disaster risk reduction training programme in Delmas, Haiti

Abstract

Background: Haiti experienced an Earthquake that killed 230 000 and injured 300 000 people. National disaster plans were developed; however, little is known about how to translate national policies to the community. The aim of this study was to examine the acceptability of a modular Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) curriculum implemented with community leaders. Methods: In 2012, a disaster preparedness community assessment (N=144 households) and key informant interviews were held. In 2013, DRR activities were piloted and outcomes informed curriculum development, which consisted of three content domains: definition of hazards, risks, and vulnerabilities; identification of protective factors and community assets; and development of community engagement strategies to assess, mitigate, and manage environmental threats. Participants were identified during the pilot study as those interested in taking a leadership role. A pre-test and post-test research design was used to assess knowledge acquisition, and questionnaires were administered to determine acceptability of methods. Findings: Participants (n=16) showed improved ability in defining disaster terms: hazards (pre-test 0; post-test 11; 68% improvement), disaster (2; 10; 50%), vulnerability (7; 14; 44%), and risk (8; 12; 25%). 81·25% of participants correctly identified community assets; 100% proposed strategies for engaging others in DRR activities. Participants found the training acceptable and beneficial: 93·75% enjoyed training activities; 100% found the topics relevant and useful; and 81·25% felt comfortable sharing activities with others. Interpretation: Community-based activities are acceptable methods for developing local capacity to mitigate risk to future hazards and disasters. A modular format supports the ability of the curriculum to be adapted and applied in other communities in Haiti. Funding: The Douglass Passaro Global Horizons Scholarship.