SPECIAL FEATURE (特集記事)

Preparing for a Major Earthquake "Are you prepared?"
<大地震に備える-あなたの備えは大丈夫？>

Major earthquakes occur periodically. Since a major earthquake has not occurred in this area since the Ansei Tokai Earthquake in 1854, a major earthquake is expected to strike in the near future. As the National Disaster Prevention Day on September 1st is approaching, we should all make efforts to prepare in case a Tokai Earthquake warning is issued and ensure that we have prepared our surroundings for an earthquake.

A Tokai Earthquake warning has been issued.	Really? What will happen? What should we do?

Information before the Tokai Earthquake

In order to predict when the Tokai Earthquake will occur and to reduce any potential damage, strainmeters that can detect changes in the earth's crust have been installed throughout the area where the earthquake epicenter of the earthquake is likely to be located (refer to Fig. 1). If the observed data by the strainmeters is determined to be anomalous, the Japan Meteorological Agency will issue announcements in three steps: "Tokai Earthquake Observation Information", "Tokai Earthquake Warning Information", and "Tokai Earthquake Alert Order".

Individuals living within the affected areas should discuss their earthquake preparations with their families and neighbors so that they will be able to calmly carry out the necessary actions once an announcement has been issued (other than Observation Information).

It Is Important to Always Be Prepared

Information related to the Tokai Earthquake is announced when signs the earthquake will strike have been observed. However, even without these signs, the Tokai Earthquake could still occur at any time so it is important to always be prepared in order to avoid panic during an actual disaster.

Tokai Earthquake Observation Information	This announcement is issued if the observation data from the Tokai area is anomalous and it is necessary to monitor the changes in the data. At this time, the central government and appropriate self-governing bodies will set up an information collection organization.	You should pay attention to the television or radio for additional information and continue with your ordinary daily activities.
Tokai Earthquake Warning Information	This announcement is issued if the data anomalies indicate that the Tokai Earthquake is increasingly likely to occur. If this warning is issued, school children must be escorted home by a responsible person (parent, neighbor, etc.) and staff and patients at hospitals must take appropriate safety measures.	You should pay attention to the television or radio for the latest information, check your emergency supplies, and confirm your evacuation routes.
Tokai Earthquake Alert Order	This announcement is issued if it appears that the Tokai Earthquake will strike in the near future. When this official warning announcement is issued, the Earthquake Disaster Warning Headquarters will be established and the Emergency Message Service (dial 171) will be activated.	You should change into comfortable clothing and close the gas main and the valves on propane gas cylinders. Those who live in areas where there is a danger of tidal waves or landslides should quickly contact their neighbors and evacuate to a safe location.

September 1st is the National Disaster Prevention Day. As emergency drills will be carried out in the city, we would appreciate everyone's understanding and cooperation.

Use the Emergency Message Service (Dial 171)

After an earthquake, telephone lines will be extremely busy and it will be difficult to complete a call. The Emergency Message Service is a convenient way for family members, relatives, and friends to inform each other of their present condition and location.

Recording and Listening to Messages*

Dial 171 and follow the instructions given.

Use the "Disaster Relief Box"

In addition to current weather and earthquake-related information, the "Disaster Relief Box" on the Hamamatsu City home page also lists nearby evacuation centers and the best ways to evacuate during a disaster. Please access the following address to learn more.

http://www.city.hamamatsu.shizuoka.jp/hamaEng/bosai/index.html

Action Manual for Individuals Requiring Assistance during a Disaster
<災害時要援護者防災行動マニュアル>

If a disaster such as the Tokai Earthquake occurs, individuals requiring assistance are more likely than others to suffer injuries to their physical or mental helth. Accordingly, the Action Manual for Individuals Requiring Assistance during a Disaster was created to help relieve some of the suffering experienced by individuals with special needs. The manual is provided* to each household as guidance to avoid panicking during a disaster. Individuals requiring assistance

･ Elderly individuals requiring care/assistance
･ Individuals with a physical handicap
･ Individuals with internal medical problems
･ Individuals with impaired vision
･ Individuals with hearing disability
･ Individuals with voice or language impairment
･ Individuals with a mental handicap
･ Individuals with a mental disorder
･ Pregnant women and families/parents with infants
･ Kindergarten and elementary school students
･ Foreign residents who cannot speak Japanese

Health and Welfare General Affairs Division
Tel. 457-2326