Radio Bulgaria

After the earthquake that shook Bulgaria on May 22 a sociological study showed if Bulgarians actually knew what to do in case of a similar disaster. The poll was conducted between May 26-May 30 and its results showed one in ten Bulgarians does not know what to do or how to find information in case of a natural disaster. The least informed are young people, uneducated people, as well as representatives of the Roma community. A number of people do not know where to find help in case of natural disasters. 7% say they would not look for help from the authorities. 22% count on the local authorities. When the tremors begin, 58% think it is best to leave the building fast, while 40% would look for a safer place inside their homes and until the tremor stops. 9% say they do not know what to do in such a situation. The main source of information in case of a natural disaster is the TV, as 46% say they would get their information from there. 26% prefer the radio. The Bulgarian National Radio was actually the first media to inform Bulgarians about the earthquake on May 22. 19% of the polled say they would call 112 – the European emergency phone number. 17% would call the fire department. According to the study, there are also people who would use other unreliable sources of information, which hides a risk of inadequate actions and spreading of rumors, the study concludes.