Japan is a country often associated with earthquakes and natural disasters, resulting in a wealth of safety resources to keep citizens informed and prepared. Yet, with so many resources (from government updates and evacuation maps to emergency apps), it can be hard to know where to start; it can be easy to grow complacent in the face of the abundance of information. However, if a disaster does strike, having a plan in place can make all the difference.
One of the most powerful reminders of this fact is the Great Kanto Earthquake. On September 1st, 1923, the Great Kanto Earthquake struck the Tokyo region, devastating infrastructure but also, tragically, claiming the lives of around 140,000 people. In response, the Japanese Government designated September 1st as Disaster Prevention Day, a national reminder to be prepared for anything.
This September, at KIST, as part of our return to school, we will be reflecting on strategies to manage personal safety and preparedness; a number of Advisory classes will lead age-appropriate lessons on emergency awareness, and we will remind students of our school evacuation procedures. However, preparedness works best when it extends beyond the school gates. We encourage all families to take this opportunity to review their own emergency plans by considering the following actions:
- Download the Disaster Preparedness Tokyo app, the official app from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, available in English and other languages. This application holds invaluable information on how to make routine preparations.
- Hold a family meeting to review your emergency plan, including where to meet, who to contact, and how to stay in touch.
- Walk through evacuation routes at home and in your neighborhood.
- Prepare an emergency kit with water, food, medications, a flashlight, and important documents.
- Practice emergency drills together to build confidence.
- Talk about emotions to reassure children that it’s normal to feel scared and teach calming strategies.
- Check your school contact information and share your plan with relatives or caregivers.
- Stay informed by downloading emergency apps, such as NHK News.
By taking these steps now, you help our young people see that this abundance of information is, in fact, a source of calm confidence and readiness.
