Danger in Public Spaces: Strengths and Limitations of Image- and Text-Based Warning Signs
2018 ◽
Vol 82
(1)
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pp. 53-73
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Keyword(s):
This study examines the effectiveness of images on warning signs that communicate risk and risk avoidance in public spaces. Specifically, I compared data from 749 survey responses to determine whether the use of images can increase the effectiveness of a warning sign in a public space. Although the findings indicate that image-based warning signs are better at communicating risk and deterring dangerous activity, longer expository text-only warning signs may be more effective at helping people identify and participate in safe activities. Implications and future studies are offered in the conclusion.