Useful in emergencies! Learn disaster preparedness the fun way with a disaster-prevention trivia quiz

September 1

September 1 is the day the Great Kanto Earthquake occurred. It also marks the beginning of typhoon season. For this reason, the day was designated as Disaster Prevention Day to raise awareness about disaster preparedness. Incidentally, the week starting from September 1 is designated as Disaster Prevention Week.

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To begin with, the “NTT Disaster Emergency Message Dial” is a service that lets you record and play back messages during a disaster. It’s very reassuring, isn’t it? What’s more, there are no charges. Let’s make active use of it in times of disaster.

Hide under a table or similar, and first protect yourself.

When an earthquake occurs, get under a table or similar piece of furniture and assume the position of holding your legs. It’s important to act without panicking. If there’s no table, protecting your head with a cushion or seat pad is also effective. Also, be careful to extinguish any sources of fire.

Alpha rice (pre-gelatinized rice)

Alpha rice refers to rice that has been dried using a special method. Just add water or hot water to make it ready to eat, and it can also be stored for a long time. It’s reassuring to keep some stocked at home. Another major feature is that you can enjoy a taste similar to freshly cooked rice.

Press all the floor buttons and get off wherever it stops.

If an earthquake occurs while you are in an elevator, press the buttons for all floors and get off as soon as it stops. In the unlikely event that you become trapped, use the emergency button to call for help. Then follow the instructions given by the staff in charge.

Run under a tall tree

It is very dangerous to take shelter under a tall tree during a thunderstorm. Because tall trees are higher than their surroundings, they are more likely to be struck by lightning. Although it may feel as if the tree is shielding you, the lightning current can flow into people nearby and cause electric shock, so you must never approach. To protect yourself from lightning, it is safest to evacuate into a building or a car. In open areas, keep your body low and try to minimize contact with the ground.

Long sleeves, long pants

When evacuating, the appropriate clothing is long sleeves and long pants. It’s even better if they’re made of cotton, which is less likely to catch fire. As for shoes, the best choice is a pair with thick soles that you’re used to wearing. It’s a good idea to check what clothing and shoes you have at home in advance.