Volcanic risk perception in rural communities along the slopes of mount Cameroon, West-Central Africa

► Risk perception reflects previous threat levels exposed to a resident population. ► Local knowledge of volcanic hazards is high in the Mount Cameroon region. ► Mt. Cameroon respondents would shift responsibility for their protection to requisite experts. ► Future hazard alert must weight Internet and SMS technology equal to radio and television. ► The local population should be involved in developing emergency civil protection plans.