Earthquakes are one of the hardest natural disasters to prepare for due to their sudden onset and wide range of severity. In October 2007, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) began providing earthquake warnings via television and radio immediately after early tremors are detected. These early earthquake warnings are quite accurate, and give Japanese residents precious seconds and moments to prepare themselves properly for more serious tremors.
For those interested in experiencing what an earthquake feels like, there are two research centers with visible and interactive media available to Japanese residents and visitors. The Hyogo Earthquake Engineering Research Center offers visitors several video earthquake simulations, while the larger Tokyo Northern Disaster Research Center allows patrons to experience a series of small earthquakes in its simulator free of charge. Simulations of the 1923 Kanto Earthquake and the 1995 Kobe Earthquake give patrons a first-hand experience of the duration and magnitude of larger quakes. There's also a simulation that shows how to escape from a burning building safely.
Residents and long-term visitors should keep an updated emergency supply kit that will last at least three to five days, in an area that will be protected from being buried. One gallon of water per day is sufficient for one person's consumption and cleaning needs. Water reserves should be updated every three to five months. Canned or pre-cooked food that requires no heat or water is should be included, but be sure to update your stores to accommodate any special dietary needs. Other helpful items to keep on hand in case of an earthquake include a first aid kit, cash, flashlights, a radio, large plastic bags, personal toiletries and spare batteries.
There are a few ways you can prepare a room or building in Japan to reduce the chances of damage or personal injury should an earthquake strike. First, visitors from other countries should register with their consulates or embassies to establish a line of contact should a damaging earthquake occur.
After noting all possible exits from a home, office building or other structure, flammable materials should be removed or isolated. Securing refrigerators, water heaters and heavy furniture pieces to walls will prevent them from falling over during a tremor, and flexible connections on gas appliances allow more room for movement without the risk of tearing. Moving heavy items onto lower shelves and installing locking latches to cabinets prevents items from flying across a room.
After an earthquake of any magnitude, there are a number of steps to take. First, check your surroundings for signs of hazards such as broken glass or fire, and make sure you aren't hurt yourself. Open doors and windows to avoid getting trapped in case of aftershocks, and call out to those around you to determine if anyone is injured. If possible, check local television and radio for information about damage caused by the quake, any predictions about future tremors and other instructions the government may be providing.
