What you should be prepared for in Japan, a country prone to natural disasters
September 1st is Disaster Prevention Day
In Japan, September 1st is designated as "Disaster Prevention Day." This day commemorates the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and serves as a reminder to reconfirm the importance of preparing for natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons. Japan experiences frequent earthquakes and typhoons, and a disaster can strike at any time.
Because of this, disaster drills and awareness activities are held across the country on this day. In Japanese elementary schools, disaster drills are conducted several times a year, where students learn evacuation routes and methods for ensuring their safety in the event of various disasters, including earthquakes, fires, and tsunamis. This is crucial education that helps people act calmly in a disaster.
Natural disaster drills at school
I participated in many disaster drills from elementary school through high school. While some students didn't take them seriously and fooled around, they were quickly corrected by teachers. When you consider the many lives lost in past disasters and the long-term efforts made to reduce damage, you can't take disaster drills lightly.
Disaster drills also take place on days other than September 1st. If you hear a siren for an evacuation drill while you are visiting Japan, it's just one of the routine safety measures practiced daily here.
The "Kids' Disaster Kit" is a handy disaster preparedness item for travel
The "Kids' Disaster Kit," sold at Ikedaya, is a compact set of items useful during a disaster, all packaged to fit into a pocket of an Ikedaya randoseru backpack. It's designed to be lightweight enough to be carried at all times and can be used while traveling or in daily life.
Although the product name is "Kids' Disaster Kit," it's also a suitable size for adults to carry. While it's not enough to be fully prepared for everything, it can be helpful in an emergency.
What's inside
-
LED Light
A rainproof LED light that can also be used as a lantern by pulling out the tip. Batteries are sold separately (uses one AAA alkaline battery/not completely waterproof). -
ID Whistle
This whistle is useful for signaling your location if you can't move. You can write your personal information on the ID sheet to be prepared for an emergency or accident. -
Cold/Heat-Insulation Sheet
Used to protect against cold, wind, rain, and direct sunlight. -
Outer Bag
This is a zippered bag for storing the items listed above, but it can also be used as a container for liquids in an emergency.
The disaster kit is available at Ikedaya retail stores
You can buy this disaster kit at Ikedaya retail stores. You can get it as a safety item that's also useful for travel. Just show the store staff the photo from this blog post.
It is best to not encounter a natural disaster, but it is also important to be prepared for one. Carrying a small disaster preparedness item can help you enjoy your trip with greater peace of mind. It's recommended to continue carrying it as a reminder of your trip, even after you return home.
