Tip 184: Earthquake preparedness in Tokyo

There were two earthquake incidents recently in Tokyo in just a span of 3 days, measuring a magnitude of 6.5 and another at 6.9. It didn't feel scary but it would be when we compare it to the destruction caused by the Great Hanshin or Kobe earthquake in 1995 that measured 7.3.











Thank God that our apartment unit survived with everything intact. Actually, the whole of Tokyo metopolis was little affected by the tremor. Most buildings and structures there had already undergone seismic retrofitting and comply to earthquake resistant standards. In fact, tall buildings were fitted with Malaysian natural rubber blocks to absorb shocks based on advanced Japanese earthquake engineering principles. When previously selecting an apartment unit, I followed Tomomi's advice to get a ground floor unit that is by the side that allows for quick escaping. It is good that Japan, especially Tokyo has a high degree of preparedness, but as daddies, there are other household seismic safety and preparations to be aware of. Previously blogged briefly on typhoons and earthquakes here, but this post contains more tips.











First, is the preparation of an emergency kit. It can be simple comprising mainly bottled water, battery powered torch and radio, whistle and some first aid supplies. This probably is more important for countries like America where convenience stores and vending machines are far away. For Japan, this kit would only be useful while you are being trapped in the building, God forbid that happening.











Next is to train the family through earthquake drills. If the child has not already undergone such training in school, many centers in Japan have earthquake simulations of the different magnitudes. Then, when the actual incident happens, everyone would be quick to duck and cover under a table. Most fatalities occur due to broken bones caused by falling objects or shattering glasses. Hence, arranging furniture with this in mind and securing high objects carefully can prevent such dangers.

Next, is to wear shoes and do a house check of potential dangers within the house of falling objects and fire. It may be safer to stay within safe distances to the exit while waiting indoors if the building is secure, than to panic and be crushed by human stampede or be injured by falling bricks elsewhere. By following government announcement, head to the designated earthquake evacuation center for supplies and shelter till the situation is declared safe.

It can be that straightforward and the rest would depend on circumstance and common sense to tackle them. Our life and death are after all in God's hands. I left out many specifics, but feel free to add other tips to the list.

(Photo taken with a Nikon D700 camera by an experienced photographer shows Haruka at a park near Namiki-chuo station, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama. More family photos to come).