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Guide for Living in Japan > Emergencies

Earthquakes

Earthquakes

Many earthquakes occur in Japan. To prepare in advance for an earthquake so that you keep the damage to a minimum, it is necessary to prepare psychologically as well as be prepared concerning physical damage.

Preparing for earthquakes
1. Make sure that a fire extinguisher and a source of water for extinguishing fires is available.
2. Make sure that no tall furniture is likely to tip over by fastening it in place.
3. Keep important items that you will want to keep with you if you have to leave, in a place where they can be easily located.
4. Make a list of important telephone numbers and the number of someone that can understand the language that you speak.
5. Make sure you know the evacuation point in your neighborhood and how to get to it.
If you feel an earthquake occurring (While you are at home)
1. First, get under a table or desk or into some other safe place
2. Turn off the stove, the gas and electricity. Douse all flames.
3. Open the front door and prepare a way to get out of the house/apartment.
4. Do not run outside immediately when an earthquake occurs.
5. Be careful of falling objects. Don't stand near garden walls or gateposts.
6. Keeping your load as light as possible, go to the evacuation point.
7. Listen to the radio to obtain accurate information about the earthquake.
8. Without getting separated from your neighbors, cooperate with them and go to the evacuation area.
The biggest tremors of an earthquake occur in the first minute. The most dangerous aspect of an earthquake is that it may cause fires.
After an earthquake
After an earthquake, there is a danger of after-shocks and of tidal waves. Use the radio, television and the newspaper to collect as much accurate information as possible about the situation. When you have arrived at an evacuation area, as rapidly as possible, please try to contact your embassy or consulate and try to contact your child's school.

Items for taking with you in an emergency

Flashlight, batteries Drinking water, food Portable radio Source of identification Passport Bankbook and valuables Matches, lighter, candles "Emergency Set" items Helmet, shawl Waterproof, cold resistant items of clothing or covers, etc.	Please prepare a cloth bag or sack to hold these emergency items

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