The analysis of factors affecting people’s preparedness in Rasht city against natural disasters

Background: Preparedness is to plan for the crisis management. High population density, development of urban areas, poor infrastructures, vulnerability of low-income groups and finally with regard to relieve the pain and suffering of citizens increased the role of crisis management in reducing material and human consequences. Thus, this study aims to identify factors affecting readiness and its priorities to deal with natural disasters in Rasht city. Methods: In this desc riptive-analytical study, the required data are collected by cluster sampling in five districts of Rasht city. The self-administrated questionnaire comprising ۴۲ questions was analyzed using factor analysis. Findings: The findings could be presented in two parts: attitude factors (including increasing people’s awareness of the risk factors, improving public culture of these risks and teaching safety tips to people), and functional factors (supportive actions, emergency, and education). The first priority in attitude factors was practical training of safety features, and in the functional factors, the emergency was placed at first. Conclusion: According to the results, people’s readiness and their attitudes can be reinforced by increasing public education in rescue and relief and enjoying governmental support.