Evaluation of Preventive Information Using Alternative Protocol: Interactive Play

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Abstract To better understand individuals’ behavior in the face of a natural disaster and to evaluate the preventive information provided by French local authorities, the theatrical performance “Safe and Sound?” (“Sain et Sauf?”) and its accompanying debriefing session were tested in six French Alps municipalities in 2019 and 2020 during several 2-day sessions in collaboration with local authorities. A total of 200 people took part in this theatrical performance and interviews. The Safe and Sound? scheme is based on a 15-min play, followed by the collection of data from watching the play and debriefing with an interviewer for about 30 min. Two scenarios on flood risks and seismic risks were narrated by an actor introducing a dilemma. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed to determine the level and sources of knowledge about the two natural hazards and the behavior during a simulation with an actor. Most participants immediately headed to safety only to later put themselves in danger when confronted with an insistent neighbor and the introduction of emotion-provoking characters, i.e., children. When making their choice at each stimulus, participants evoke different sources of reason. A little under half of the participants mention common sense or instinct. Although the majority of participants claim they received preventive information from local authorities, this information is rarely applied. The media and own experience were mentioned more often. Last, the Safe and Sound? campaign was designed to assess behavior, but findings show that it was also useful to raise awareness among the population. Significance Statement The purpose of the study is to propose a system for evaluating preventive information for French communes and to see how this information is mobilized in a context close to reality during severe natural phenomena. The results of our theatrical performance and debriefing highlight the affective/emotional process that involved third parties and a dilemma. Despite knowledge of how to behave in the event of an earthquake or flood, some people choose to behave in ways that are not recommended. It is therefore important to emphasize these endangerment situations in risk communication.