Raising Awareness of the Need for Baby-Conscious Disaster Preparedness

Japan

Japan is vulnerable to many kinds of natural hazards. The three pillars of disaster preparedness are said to be self-help, mutual assistance, and public help, but the latter can be delayed immediately after a disaster, when the government must deal with multiple aspects of the response simultaneously. Lifelines like electricity, gas, and water supply can also fail as a result of disaster, which makes it important for individuals and families to be prepared against such eventualities.

In a Pigeon survey targeting Japanese mothers, mothers-to-be, and fathers with children 18 months old or less, more than eight out of ten respondents reported being “very uneasy” or “somewhat uneasy” about natural hazards. Around seven out of ten also reported that they had become more conscious of such risks since having children. Nevertheless, when asked if they had actually made purchases or other arrangements with disaster preparedness for children in mind, less than three in ten respondents indicated that they had taken action by choosing either “I have made purchases” or “I have not purchased disaster preparedness items specifically, but I have made preparations.”

Launching the “Babies and Preparedness Circle Promotion Project ”

“Experience Booths” Based on the Evacuation Experience

We prepared a booth showing three days’ worth of actual supplies, including both content and volume, to make it easier for people to understand what they should have to hand in case they are evacuated to an emergency shelter. We also had visitors don an emergency “go bag” rucksack while holding a baby to feel how heavy it can be. These “experience booths” helped us convey the importance of being prepared at all times.

We will continue our activities to ensure that babies are safe and families able to endure without difficulty in any situation, not only by offering our series of disaster preparedness products for babies, but also by conveying the vital importance for both babies and parents of being prepared for disaster at any time.

2024.04

Related Links

Providing disaster preparedness products for babies

Babies and Preparedness Circle Promotion Project