Onderzoeksartikel

De burger en de risicokaart: gebruikerservaringen in Enschede drie jaar na de vuurwerkramp

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Abstract

The Dutch digital risk map gives the computer user access to information about external safety issues in the local community (application, storage and transport of hazardous materials). An important step is made to provide transparent and open information about external safety risks. However, very little is known of the reaction of the public toward this novel type of risk communication. In a pilot-study, using an experimental design, we examined whether using the digital risk map of the city of Enschede influenced risk perception and risk information insufficiency. Additionally, we measured the subjects’ judgments regarding map characteristics as navigation and comprehensibility. The navigation and content of the map posed no problems. Subjects expressed a high need for risk information. They would search that information primarily on the internet. The risk map seems to lead to some anxiety, especially among women, but panic does not turn up. Exposure to the risk map increased risk awareness. The risk map thus seems to be a suitable instrument for informing the public on risk related issues, without creating reactions of extreme fear and anxiety.

How to Cite:

Beerepoot, W., Levi, R., Schreurs, K., Verschueren, K., Kuttschreuter, M. & Gutteling, J., (2004) “De burger en de risicokaart: gebruikerservaringen in Enschede drie jaar na de vuurwerkramp”, Tijdschrift voor Communicatiewetenschap 32(4), 361–377. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/tvc.93114