Best Ways to Prepare for Emergencies in Japan

Japan is located at the intersection of four tectonic plates, making it one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world. This geological positioning often results in earthquakes, tsunamis and other natural disasters. Being prepared for these events is not just advisable but essential. Having a well-equipped emergency backpack ensures you’re ready to protect yourself and your loved ones during a crisis. This guide will walk you through the must-have items to include in your emergency kit.

Choosing the Right Emergency Backpack

Before packing your emergency kit, the first step is to select the right backpack. A sturdy yet lightweight backpack is recommended to ensure durability without adding unnecessary weight. Opt for a design that allows you to keep your hands free, as this can be crucial in navigating dangerous situations.

Once you’ve chosen your backpack, store it in an easily accessible location at home. Ideally, it should be placed in a spot you can quickly reach during an emergency, such as near the front door or an exit. Preparing the right backpack is the foundation for effective disaster readiness.

Essential Food and Water

Stock your emergency backpack with dried, canned and long-lasting foods. Choose items with a long shelf life, such as nuts, biscuits and canned goods, as they provide essential nutrition and are easy to store. Including a few packets of dried ramen noodles can also serve as a quick, energy-boosting meal option.

For water, pack enough bottled water for both drinking and basic sanitation needs. To maximize shelf life, select non-mineralized water, which stores better over time. Keep in mind that after an earthquake, there may be a surge in demand for essentials such as water and toilet paper, so it’s wise to prepare in advance to avoid shortages.

First Aid Kit 

A well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for earthquake preparedness. You can find pre-assembled kits at most stores, but ensure the one you choose contains key items such as adhesive bandages, painkillers, disinfectants and an aluminum blanket to provide warmth for yourself or others in need.

Having these essentials in a compact box or bag makes it easy to store and carry. A first aid kit is vital for addressing minor injuries and providing immediate care during emergencies, potentially making a significant difference in critical situations.

Light Source

A reliable light source is crucial for navigating dark or power-outage situations during emergencies, so a flashlight is a must-have item for your emergency backpack. While a standard battery-operated flashlight works well, consider upgrading to an LED flashlight for better efficiency and brightness.

For added preparedness, invest in a hand-powered flashlight that doesn’t rely on batteries. This ensures you’ll always have light, even if your batteries run out. A dependable light source can be a lifesaver when navigating dark spaces or signaling for help.

Important Documents

Make photocopies of all essential documents for yourself and any family members you live with. In the event of an emergency, these copies can be invaluable if the originals are lost or damaged.

Include copies of your resident cards, passports, health insurance cards and a detailed list of emergency contact numbers. Store these in a waterproof and durable folder to protect them from water or physical damage. Having these documents readily accessible ensures you can navigate post-emergency situations with less stress.

Money

Include a stash of cash in both bills and coins in your emergency backpack. During disasters, electronic payment systems such as ATMs and card readers may not work, making cash the most reliable option.

Ensure you have enough money to cover essentials such as food, water and transportation. Keeping a decent amount of cash in your backpack ensures you’re prepared even if you forget your wallet or cards in the rush to evacuate.

Be Informed During Emergencies

Staying informed during disasters is important, and having multiple sources of information can make a significant difference. A pocket radio is a reliable tool for receiving emergency broadcasts, especially when mobile networks are down. Look for a battery-powered radio to ensure you can stay updated even in prolonged emergencies.

In addition to a radio, the NERV Disaster Prevention App provides real-time updates on earthquakes, tsunamis and other disasters, along with disaster maps and safety instructions in Japanese and English. For more information, visit the NERV website.