Public Service Announcement for Yokohama City

8th March 2023

This week's edition is on what to do in the event of a major earthquake.

It has been almost 12 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake and 100 since the Great Kanto Earthquake. In order not to panic if a major earthquake strikes, it is important to be prepared in everyday life.

Today, we will be introducing 3 important points for earthquake preparedness.

The first point is about preparations in everyday life.

In order to prevent furniture from toppling over or falling, fix furniture to walls and beams. Make sure you have extra supplies of food and water, a portable toilet, sanitary goods such as masks, and other necessary items, and that they are stored where they can be taken with you at any time.

You should also determine how to contact your family and where to reunite with them so that you do not panic if an earthquake strikes.

The second point is about what to do in the event of an earthquake.

First, ensure your safety in a manner that is appropriate to your situation.

If you’re at home, as well as protecting your head with something nearby, such as a cushion, you should get underneath a sturdy table. 

If you are outside, move away from things that could topple over, such as telegraph poles and vending machines, and from buildings where signs or other objects are likely to fall and hit you. You should also avoid going near rivers or the sea as there is a danger of tsunamis.

For foreign language (radio) broadcasts in an emergency, tune into InterFM. 

Make sure you obtain accurate information and act calmly.

The third point is about evacuation sites.

If evacuation is necessary, evacuate to a nearby school, park or safe open space.

If fires break out after the earthquake and there is a risk of them spreading, evacuate to a nearby ‘Evacuation Area’ to protect yourself from heat and smoke.

If your home has collapsed or sustained damage and you can no longer live in it, please evacuate to a designated evacuation shelter (Designated Evacuation Center). 

For evacuation shelter locations, please enquire with the General Affairs Section of your local ward office.