Evaluation of disaster safe school preparedness in Ngargoyoso

Abstract In the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia has a high risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and hydrometeorological disasters due to climate change. In this case, school preparedness for disasters is essential to protect children who are often victims. This study aims to evaluate the understanding of disaster-safe school preparedness among elementary school children in Ngargoyoso District, Karanganyar Regency, an area with high disaster vulnerability. The research method used was quantitative descriptive with a sample of 150 students from various elementary schools. Data was collected through interviews using eleven questions; the results of the questionnaire answers were analysed by scoring. The study results showed that 48.7% of students had a high level of preparedness, 34% moderate, and 17.3% low. Factors that affect preparedness include knowledge of the types of disasters that can occur, personal experience with disasters, and an understanding of safety measures. The study also identified challenges regarding the lack of evacuation facilities and disaster simulations evenly distributed in schools. Therefore, there is a need to improve disaster education programs, strengthen evacuation facilities, and involve students in disaster risk reduction to create disaster-safe schools.