Tokyo

๐Ÿ 

Disaster Preparedness

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Disaster Preparedness in Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is one of the most disaster-prepared cities in the world, but as a visitor or resident, itโ€™s crucial to understand how to stay safe during natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons. Below is a detailed guide to help you prepare and respond effectively.

1. General Overview of Disaster Risks in Tokyo

Tokyo is prone to:

  • Earthquakes: Japan is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly susceptible to seismic activity. Earthquakes can range from minor tremors to major quakes.
  • Typhoons: Typhoon season typically runs from June to October, with the peak occurring in August and September. These storms bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding.

2. What to Do During an Earthquake

Before the Earthquake

  • Secure your surroundings: Anchor heavy furniture to walls and store breakable items on lower shelves.
  • Know your evacuation routes: Familiarize yourself with the nearest evacuation sites (้ฟ้›ฃๅ ดๆ‰€, hinan basho).
  • Prepare an emergency kit: See Section 4 for details.

During the Earthquake

  1. Stay calm: Earthquakes often start with a small tremor before intensifying.
  2. Drop, Cover, and Hold On:
    • Drop to your hands and knees.
    • Take cover under a sturdy table or desk.
    • Hold on until the shaking stops.
  3. Avoid dangerous areas:
    • Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy objects that could fall.
    • If youโ€™re outside, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
  4. If youโ€™re on public transport:
    • Hold onto a handrail or pole.
    • Follow instructions from train or bus staff.

After the Earthquake

  • Check for injuries: Administer first aid if necessary.
  • Turn off utilities: If safe, turn off gas, electricity, and water to prevent fires or leaks.
  • Evacuate if necessary: Head to the nearest evacuation site if your building is unsafe.
  • Monitor updates: Use a battery-powered radio or smartphone to stay informed via NHK (Japanโ€™s national broadcaster) or local government alerts.

3. What to Do During a Typhoon

Before the Typhoon

  • Monitor weather updates: Check the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) website or app for typhoon warnings.
  • Stock up on essentials: Ensure you have enough food, water, and supplies for at least 3 days.
  • Secure your home: Close shutters, reinforce windows, and bring outdoor items indoors.
  • Avoid travel: Public transport may be suspended, and roads can become dangerous.

During the Typhoon

  1. Stay indoors: Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary.
  2. Stay away from windows: Strong winds can shatter glass.
  3. Monitor updates: Keep your phone charged and follow official advisories.

After the Typhoon

  • Check for damage: Inspect your home for flooding or structural issues.
  • Avoid floodwaters: They may be contaminated or hide hazards.
  • Follow local instructions: Authorities may issue evacuation orders or safety advisories.

4. Recommended Emergency Kits

An emergency kit (bousai set, ้˜ฒ็ฝใ‚ปใƒƒใƒˆ) is essential for disaster preparedness. Hereโ€™s what to include:

Basic Items

  1. Water: 3 liters per person per day (for at least 3 days).
  2. Non-perishable food: Canned goods, energy bars, and instant meals.
  3. First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and prescription medications.
  4. Flashlight: With extra batteries or a hand-crank option.
  5. Portable phone charger: Preferably solar-powered or battery-operated.
  6. Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank to receive updates.
  7. Clothing: Warm clothes, rain gear, and sturdy shoes.
  8. Blanket or sleeping bag: Compact and lightweight.
  9. Personal hygiene items: Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
  10. Cash: Small bills and coins, as ATMs may not work.
  11. Important documents: Copies of your passport, residence card, insurance, and emergency contacts in a waterproof bag.

Additional Items

  • Dust mask: To protect against debris or smoke.
  • Gloves: For handling debris.
  • Whistle: To signal for help.
  • Maps: Paper maps of your area.
  • Multi-tool: A Swiss Army knife or similar tool.

Estimated Costs

  • Pre-assembled emergency kits are available online or in stores for ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ15,000 ($35โ€“$100 USD), depending on the contents.
  • DIY kits may cost less but require careful planning.

5. Evacuation Procedures

Evacuation Sites

  • Tokyo has designated evacuation sites, such as parks, schools, and community centers. Look for signs labeled ้ฟ้›ฃๅ ดๆ‰€ (hinan basho).
  • Use the Tokyo Metropolitan Governmentโ€™s disaster preparedness app, Tokyo Disaster Prevention App, to locate the nearest site.

Evacuation Tips

  1. Bring your emergency kit: Ensure you have essentials for at least 3 days.
  2. Follow local instructions: Authorities will guide you to safe areas.
  3. Stay with your group: If youโ€™re with family or friends, stick together.
  4. Respect cultural norms: Be mindful of others in shared spaces, such as evacuation shelters.

6. Key Disaster Response Sites and Resources

Government Resources

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Fire/Ambulance: 119
  • Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL): 03-5774-0992 (for emotional support and guidance).

Apps

  • Safety Tips App: Provides real-time disaster alerts in multiple languages.
  • Yahoo! Disaster Prevention App: Offers detailed weather and disaster information.

7. Cultural Considerations for Disaster Preparedness in Tokyo

  1. Community Cooperation: Japanese culture emphasizes group harmony (wa). In evacuation shelters, be considerate of others by keeping noise levels low and sharing resources.
  2. Preparedness is Normal: Itโ€™s common for residents to have emergency kits and participate in disaster drills. Donโ€™t feel embarrassed to prepare.
  3. Language Barriers: While many resources are available in English, learning basic Japanese phrases like โ€œHelp!โ€ (Tasukete!) or โ€œWhere is the evacuation site?โ€ (Hinan basho wa doko desu ka?) can be helpful.
  4. Shoes Off Indoors: Even in emergency shelters, you may be expected to remove your shoes before entering certain areas.
  5. Follow Instructions: Japanese authorities are highly organized during disasters. Trust their guidance and avoid panicking.

8. Final Tips

  • Practice drills: Participate in local disaster drills if possible.
  • Stay informed: Regularly check weather updates and disaster alerts.
  • Be proactive: Donโ€™t wait for a disaster to happenโ€”prepare now.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-equipped to handle disasters in Tokyo with confidence and cultural sensitivity. Stay safe!