The dissemination of scientific knowledge and the communication of natural risks: some experiences.

What are the best techniques for communicating scientific topics related to natural risks to the general public? How successful are festivals and popular events dedicated to scientific dissemination in increasing knowledge and awareness about exposure to natural hazards? Is a mix of techniques more effective in describing science than a traditional "frontal" narrative? Many large and small cities or rural locations host festivals and events using different communication techniques oriented towards scientific dissemination to educate on good practices on risk prevention. Unfortunately, it is difficult to understand how many of these events and communication techniques manage to achieve the objective of increasing knowledge and awareness about exposure to natural risks, organizers can often only count the number of people who participate, but this is not enough. Here, some experiences of divulgation are described from the point of view of scientists who dedicated part of their activity to scientific dissemination and their ability to make communication more effective.