Improving bushfire preparedness through the use of virtual reality. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Molan, Safa; Weber, Delene
• Is Part Of: International journal of disaster risk reduction. Volume 66(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Wildfire -- Bushfire preparation -- Immersive virtual reality -- Behavior change -- Protective Action Decision Model (PADM) -- Stay and defend -- Wait and see -- Delayed evacuation -- Active sheltering; Emergency management -- Periodicals; Risk management -- Periodicals; Disaster relief -- Periodicals; Hazard mitigation -- Periodicals; 363.34
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2021.102574
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2212-4209

Abstract

Highlights: Prior to the VR experience, most participants suggested they would 'wait and see' rather than take a decisive action. Significant differences based on gender were noted in physical and emotional preparation amongst the 'wait and see' cohort. Almost one-third of respondents developed a Bushfire Survival Plan (BSP) after experiencing the VR scenario. More than three-quarters of respondents could remember key safety tips 3-months after the experience. VR reduced the time consumed in denial and deliberation during a fire incident and encouraged more rapid decisive action.