Household Disaster Preparedness Among Vulnerable Populations: 14 States, 2006-2010

BACKGROUND: Persons with chronic diseases or mental or emotional problems may be at greater risk of negative health outcomes during disaster situations. Preparedness is particularly important for these populations, which may have special needs during a disaster. We investigated the likelihood of reporting preparedness behaviors for these groups.

METHODS: We examined Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 2006 to 2010 from the 14 states which implemented the General Preparedness module in at least one of those years.  We conducted three analyses investigating the likelihood of reporting disaster preparedness behaviors among different populations. Those with: one or more chronic conditions (heart attack, stroke, coronary heart disease, diabetes); frequent mental distress (14 or more days in the past month of poor mental health); and limitations in activities because of physical, mental, or emotional problems. Adjusted prevalence ratios (APR) were calculated. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, race, education, and marital status.

RESULTS: Overall, 10.8% (95% CI=10.5, 11.2) reported all six preparedness behaviors (written evacuation plan, 3-day supplies of food, water, medication, a radio, and a flashlight) and 14.7% (14.3, 15.1) reported at least one chronic condition. Those with at least one chronic condition (APR=1.13; 1.04, 1.24) were more likely than those with no chronic conditions to report all six preparedness behaviors. Those with frequent mental distress (APR=0.81; 0.72, 0.92) and those limited because of physical, mental, or emotional problems (APR=0.86; 0.79, 0.93) were less likely than those without these conditions to report all six preparedness behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS: Individuals experiencing chronic illnesses may be more likely to be prepared for a disaster compared to those not experiencing chronic disease, while those with frequent mental distress and those who are limited in activities by health conditions may be less likely to be prepared. Public health officials may direct education and outreach to certain population groups which are less likely to be prepared for a disaster. Research on why certain groups differ in preparedness may assist the development of outreach and education strategies.