Information Simulation Model: Effective Risk Communication and Disaster Management in a Mixed Cultural Society

Abstract

Disaster management planning requires an understanding of the issues facing a mixed cultural society to ensure effective risk information/ communication. Irrespective of the length or status of abode in the migrant destination, international standards require timely and effective communication of emergency disaster information to all. Therefore, if disaster managers are to effectively meet this challenge, models and tools must be developed to ensure efficient and equitable dissemination of information to all residents, at all phases of the disaster management cycle. We developed an information simulation model for ensuring effective dissemination of disaster information in a mixed cultural society in order to ensure effective disaster management. The model will be an effective tool for: (1) Communicating disaster risk and evacuation information in a mixed cultural landscape. (2) Planning disaster risk and evacuation response. (3) Educating decision makers on the relationship between disaster risk, information timing, and response time.