As used in this paper, "perception" is defined as "a cognitive process, an impression formed from our understanding; the action of the mind by which it refers its sensations to an external object as their cause." Perceptions of risk are thus framed within the perceiver's own terms of reference, culturally constructed by the viewer's values, biases, judgment, and intuition, as well as by the passage of time. By contrast, "awareness" is defined as "the state of being knowledgeable." This involves being watchful, vigilant, cautious, informed, and cognizant. Risk awareness thus emerges from people or organizations that require knowledge that issues in action. Distinguishing perception from awareness, however, does not mean they are mutually exclusive experiences or activities. It is awareness, the process of becoming informed and knowledgeable, that will influence perception and drive the perception of risk much nearer to the reality of risk. This paper goes on to argue the case for risk awareness as a fundamental aspect of the risk-management process, particularly risk identification. The paper concludes by positing that risk awareness as a discipline should be a combination of vulnerability analysis, information-gathering, and knowledge management, conducted continuously. 33 notes