According to the Institute for Environment and Human Security at the UN, Japan ranks in the highest category for disaster potential.
This is partially due to the wide-range of disasters that occur here: earthquakes, tsunami, typhoons, flooding, landslides, heavy precipitation events, and extreme heat and cold. Due to this, Japan has very strong disaster response teams and preparedness.
Using the tips below and as well as information from your local municipality and the Japanese government, you too can be prepared for potential disasters.
Contact Information and Resources
When calling in an emergency, give landmarks or names of nearby businesses, etc. if unsure of your location.
If you call from a payphone/landline, your location can be traced by emergency services.
Emergency Contacts
Apps
Japan Meteorolgical Association: provides live data for disasters, weather, and risk. https://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html
Things to Remember
Disaster Preparedness and Response
This is a very important topic for which the Government of Tokyo has prepared excellent resources.
Please go to https://www.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/english/guide/bosai/index.html and download the guide. It offers an in-depth look at how to prepare, how to respond during and after an event, how to perform first aid, and what to expect. The information is clearly written in English and there are good visual guides.
Before a Disaster (do as soon as possible)
Memorize emergency phone numbers for Japan
See contact info above.
Register with your embassy
If you have any questions on how to register, search for your embassy here.
Americans can register via STEP.
New Zealanders can register via SafeTravel.
Canadians can register here.
Map of local evacuation sites
Use Google Chrome to access your city’s website and you can easily translate the webpage into English for ease of navigation.
Your town hall or prefectural government may offer materials on disaster risk and preparedness specific to your area as well. If you need help finding them, ask your PA, supervisor, or contracting organization.
Read about disaster preparedness
See Below
Prepare your home
Japan is prone to frequent earthquakes and tsunamis depending on where you live. Many of them are harmless, but in the event of a serious disaster you may need to leave an area quickly, and having an emergency kit ready will help with this.
This website provides a good list of what to prepare.
Get Additional Information
Ask your PA and fellow JETs for help finding information specific to your prefecture.
Line
Check if your city has a Line Group you can join. You will often receive useful information about any important health and safety issues happening in your area.
