Points for appropriate evacuation behavior in the event of a disaster

table of contents

Introduction
1. Collecting information and confirming alarms

2. Choosing an appropriate evacuation site

3. Formulation of an evacuation plan

4.Prepare your belongings in the event of a disaster

5. Home security measures

6. Observance of evacuation orders

summary

Introduction

Disasters are unpredictable and can greatly affect our lives. Knowing the appropriate evacuation behavior and preparing for disasters is extremely important to ensure the safety of ourselves and our families. In this article, we will explain in detail the points for appropriate evacuation behavior in the event of a disaster.

1. Collecting information and confirming alarms

1-1 Use of official information sources

In times of disaster, it is important to get the most up-to-date information from official sources. Use reliable sources of information such as local TV stations, radio stations, and disaster management agency websites on the Internet. Official sources provide accurate and timely information, which helps in making appropriate evacuation decisions.

1-2 Confirmation of disaster warning

Check your local disaster warning system for important information such as disaster warnings and evacuation advisories. Warnings may be issued when natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions occur. Disaster warnings may be notified via radio, television, the Internet, emergency alert apps, etc. When confirming alerts, make sure to check information from reliable sources.

1-3 Local evacuation information

Local governments and disaster management agencies provide evacuation information in the event of a disaster. We provide detailed information on evacuation shelter locations, access methods, traffic regulations during evacuation, and life support at evacuation shelters. Collect local evacuation information through your local government's website, SNS , and emergency call system. Local news and local group chats can also be useful sources of information.

1-4 Check the weather forecast

Weather forecasts are useful for predicting disasters and understanding their paths. If you live in a disaster-prone area, make it a habit to check the weather forecast regularly. Especially when weather conditions such as typhoons and heavy rains are involved, follow the weather forecast carefully and take appropriate measures in conjunction with disaster warnings.

1-5 Securing rapid information transmission means

Communications networks may become congested during a disaster. Therefore, it is important to secure multiple means of communication. Make information available through different media such as mobile phones, smart phones, radio and mobile data communications. Also, in the event of a disaster, it is important to have a means of communicating with people in your neighborhood. By sharing neighborhood information, you can get more accurate information.

2. Choosing an appropriate evacuation site

2-1 Prioritize high altitudes and safe places

If floods, tsunamis, or other types of flood damage are expected, prioritize evacuation sites located in highlands. Facilities and shelters on high ground or hills are suitable for flood evacuation. Also, if seismic or volcanic activity such as an earthquake or volcanic eruption is expected, select a safe location considering the earthquake resistance of the building and the fire resistance of the evacuation facility.

2-2 Check local designated evacuation sites

Local governments and disaster management organizations designate designated evacuation sites in the event of a disaster. These designated evacuation sites are prepared to provide a safe environment and necessary support in the event of a disaster. Check your local designated evacuation site through the website or pamphlet of your local government. Designated evacuation sites have appropriate facilities and equipment and are designed to support evacuees in the event of a disaster.

2-3 Choose a location with easy traffic access

When choosing an evacuation site, consider the ease of traffic access. When disaster strikes, roads and transportation can become congested. It is important to choose a place where access to the evacuation site is smooth and where it is easy to move during an evacuation. Also, in case it is difficult to use public transportation, consider other means of evacuation, such as your own car or bicycle.

2-4 Consider special needs

It is also important to evacuate people with special needs, such as the elderly, people with physical limitations, pregnant women and infants. When choosing a shelter, consider these special needs and choose a place that offers barrier-free facilities and the support you need. Follow local evacuation plans and instructions and give due consideration to the evacuation of people with special needs.

 3. Formulation of an evacuation plan

3-1 Consultation with family members and cohabitants

The first step in developing an evacuation plan is consultation with family members and cohabitants. Discuss what actions to take in the event of a disaster, which evacuation site to gather, contact methods and emergency contact information, etc. It's important to create a plan that your family and housemates will recognize and understand.

3-2 Determination of evacuation site

Determine an appropriate evacuation site with your family and cohabitants, considering the designated evacuation sites and safe places in your area. Make sure you know how to access the location and evacuation routes, and include them in your plan as specifically as possible. Consider choosing multiple shelters if necessary to accommodate different situations.

3-3 Preparing belongings for evacuation

It is important that your evacuation plan also include a list of items you will need to take with you when you evacuate. Make a list of essential items such as drinking water, emergency food, clothes, bedding, important documents, medicines, cell phones and chargers, and cash. Also, for people with special needs, don't forget to bring necessary medical supplies and special medications.

3-4 Securing means of communication

It is important that evacuation plans also include ensuring adequate means of communication. Make sure you have an emergency contact list, radio, cell phone, internet access, and other means of receiving information and communicating with family and friends in the event of a disaster.

3-5 Continuous updating of plans and training

Evacuation plans should be updated regularly and adapted to the latest information and circumstances. It is also important to conduct regular drills and evacuation drills. Confirm the feasibility of the plan by regularly checking evacuation routes and evacuation sites, checking belongings, and checking means of communication.

4.Prepare your belongings in the event of a disaster

4-1 Emergency food and drinking water

Prepare the minimum amount of emergency food and drinking water, as food and water supplies may be cut off in the event of a disaster. For emergency food, it is good to choose food that can be stored for a long time, such as nutritious bread, canned food, and dried food. Drinking water should be available in clean, sealed bottles or pouches. It is recommended to have enough food and water for at least 3 days per person.

4-2 Clothing and bedding

Adequate clothing and bedding are required at evacuation sites. In warm weather, pack lightweight, insulating clothing. In cold weather, it is important to have warm clothes, gloves, hats, and thick socks. For bedding, prepare blankets, sleeping bags, and sleeping bags to ensure a comfortable sleeping environment.

4-3 Emergency equipment and medicine

Emergency supplies and medicines are also important during a disaster. Prepare emergency supplies such as flashlights, extra batteries, radios, multi-tools, and lighters. As for medicines, it is important to prepare necessary medicines, including prescription medicines, first aid products, bandages, antiseptic solutions, mosquito coils and insect repellents in the case of tropical areas. Don't forget to stock up on medications that may be needed for each family's special medical needs.

4-4 Important documents and cash

It is important to take important documents and personal records with you during a disaster. Store passports, ID cards, insurance cards, medical records, family contact lists, and more in waterproof bags and water-resistant containers. Also, prepare enough cash as you may need it in the event of a disaster.

4-5 Other necessities

In the event of a disaster, it is useful to have some other essentials on hand. This includes mobile phones and chargers, extra batteries, radios, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, tissues, diapers, feminine hygiene products, wet towels and wipes.

5. Home security measures

5-1 Fire measures

Install smoke detectors (smoke alarms) and fire alarms and make sure they work properly. Regularly check the electrical wiring and outlets, and repair or replace them if any abnormality is found. Confirm and practice evacuation routes in the event of a fire with your family. Be careful in places where fire is strictly prohibited, and be sure to turn off the power of home appliances during cooking and after use.

5-2 Earthquake countermeasures

Get a seismic diagnosis for your house, and carry out strong structures and seismic reinforcement. Fix furniture and home appliances to reduce the risk of falling over. Avoid placing heavy objects on high shelves or cabinets. Check evacuation sites and evacuation routes in the event of an earthquake, and practice with your family.

5-3 Natural disaster countermeasures

In preparation for natural disasters such as floods and typhoons, determine evacuation sites and evacuation routes.
Even if you are located on high ground, if you live in a place where there is a risk of flooding or landslides, take appropriate measures. Secure outdoor items such as flowerpots to prevent them from being affected by wind or water. If necessary, stockpile emergency supplies and emergency food.

5-4 General safety measures

Keep your home clean and reduce the risk of falls and accidents. Use non-slip pads on slippery surfaces such as stairs and floors. Store hazardous materials and sharp objects properly and out of reach of children and pets. Perform regular maintenance and inspections, and repair any abnormalities as soon as possible.

6. Observance of evacuation orders

6-1 Act swiftly

If an evacuation order is issued, act immediately. Evacuation orders indicate imminent danger. Being late can be dangerous, so it's important to take appropriate action the moment orders are given.

6-2 Follow instructions

Evacuation instructions include places to evacuate, evacuation routes, and what to bring for evacuation. Follow the information given in the instructions and move to an appropriate evacuation site. Following instructions is essential for your own safety and that of others.

6-3 Act swiftly and calmly

Panic and confusion can occur when an evacuation order is issued. However, calm judgment and action are required. It is important to remain calm, behave appropriately, and pass on similar instructions to those around you.

6-4 Confirmation of evacuation routes

Before an evacuation order is issued, it is important to check the evacuation routes in your area of ​​residence in advance. Check maps and local evacuation plans, and know the evacuation routes and locations of evacuation sites. This enables smooth action when an evacuation order is issued.

6-5 Pay attention to surrounding information

Get up-to-date information from the media and official sources if an evacuation order is issued. Instructions may be updated, so it's important to check for accurate information. In addition, we are required to pay attention to the instructions of neighbors and communities and take joint action.

summary

Taking appropriate evacuation actions in the event of a disaster is extremely important in ensuring the safety of ourselves and our families. Collect information and check warnings, select an appropriate evacuation site, formulate an evacuation plan, prepare your belongings in the event of a disaster, take measures to keep your home safe, and follow evacuation orders. Preparing for and planning disasters in advance will enable safer evacuation.