The state of hazard risk communication in Canada: a municipal perspective

Abstract

Effective disaster risk communication remains a key challenge for Canadian municipalities striving for resilience and risk reduction. This paper examines eight case studies across five provinces to explore local risk communication strategies and framings. It identifies three main approaches: place-based, community-based, and privately driven. Risk is predominantly framed in biophysical and objective terms, though larger municipalities are adopting more community-centered strategies. Municipal size, disaster experience, and local priorities shape communication practices. Shifts in public engagement models present both capacity challenges and opportunities for municipalities to collaborate and learn from one another in addressing disaster risk.