When visiting Japan, understanding earthquake safety is crucial due to its frequent seismic activity.
This guide offers essential tips to keep you prepared in the event of an earthquake, ensuring your safety and peace of mind. 😊
1. Understand the Basics of Earthquakes
Japan is located in a region with frequent seismic activity, so it’s essential to be prepared.
Earthquakes occur due to the shifting of the Earth’s tectonic plates.
A large earthquake can cause significant damage, including building collapses and secondary disasters like tsunamis or landslides.
Familiarize yourself with these possibilities to stay calm and make informed decisions during an earthquake.
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2. Stay Alert for Aftershocks
After the main earthquake, you might experience aftershocks, which are smaller tremors that follow the initial quake.
These can still be strong and dangerous, so remain vigilant even after the shaking stops.
Be prepared for these tremors as they may continue for days and weeks. Always stay cautious and avoid letting your guard down too early.
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3. Immediate Actions During an Earthquake
When an earthquake strikes, protect yourself from falling objects.
If indoors, find shelter under a sturdy table or desk, cover your head, and stay low until the shaking stops. Avoid windows and glass fixtures that could shatter.
If you’re outside, move away from buildings, streetlights, and anything else that might fall. In a car, pull over and stay inside until the tremors cease.
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4. Special Precautions in High-Rise Buildings and Elevators
If you are in a high-rise building, avoid using elevators. Elevators may stop working, trapping you inside.
Instead, use the stairwells after the shaking has stopped.
If you’re already inside an elevator during a quake, press all buttons and exit as soon as it stops. Use emergency intercoms if you are trapped and wait for rescue.
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5. Navigating Crowded Places
In shopping malls or theaters, avoid rushing to exits to prevent panic and potential injury.
Instead, protect your head and follow staff instructions for safe evacuation.
Watch out for falling objects like products from shelves or shattered glass displays.
Move towards safe areas such as near pillars or in the middle of aisles.
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6. Actions on City Streets and Underground Areas
If you are on city streets, stay aware of potential hazards like falling debris or collapsing structures.
Move quickly to an open space, like a park, away from buildings that could drop glass, signs, or other materials.
If you’re in an underground area, such as a subway station, stay calm and follow instructions to exit safely.
Avoid rushing to the exits to prevent crowding and injury. Keep clear of areas where objects, like signboards, could fall, and be careful not to be pushed or fall onto the tracks.
Move cautiously to ensure your safety and the safety of others around you.
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7. Staying Safe on Trains and Buses
When an earthquake occurs while you’re on a train or bus, stay seated and cover your head with your bag to protect yourself from falling objects.
If you’re standing, try to crouch down low to maintain your balance.
If the train is too crowded to crouch, hold onto the handrails firmly to steady yourself until the shaking stops. Remain calm and follow any instructions from the staff.
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8. Post-Earthquake Safety Measures
Once the shaking stops, continue to be cautious. Wear sturdy shoes to avoid injuries from broken glass and debris.
Prepare for aftershocks by keeping doors open and ensuring a clear escape route.
Avoid using electrical switches or open flames due to the risk of gas leaks.
Use flashlights or your phone for light if needed.
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9. Tsunami Risks: Act Quickly
After a major earthquake, there is a risk of a tsunami, especially if you’re near the coast.
Don’t wait for an official evacuation order—immediately head to higher ground to ensure your safety.
You can check your phone for updates once you’re safe.
Remember, tsunami waves can arrive quickly, so it’s crucial to move to higher ground without delay.
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10. Be Aware of Landslides
Earthquakes can also trigger landslides, especially in hilly or mountainous areas.
If you are near a slope, move away immediately to avoid debris flows or rockfalls.
Landslides can be fast and powerful, causing severe damage.
Always seek safe, open areas away from potential slide zones after an earthquake.
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Extra Tip: Download Earthquake Alert Apps Before Traveling
Before you travel to Japan, it’s a good idea to download earthquake alert apps like Safety Tips, Yurekuru Call, and NERV Disaster Prevention.
These apps provide real-time notifications about earthquakes, tsunamis, and other emergencies.
They can help you stay informed and take immediate action when needed.
Make sure these apps are installed on your phone and set up with your location for timely updates and alerts.
