Japan conducts disaster preparedness drills in Shizuoka and Awaji Island

Various disaster preparedness drills are being conducted across Japan to enhance community resilience and response to large-scale seismic events.

In Shizuoka Prefecture, the Hamakita Police Station organized a drill involving local residents, foreign nationals, and childcare workers. The training focused on the themes of self-help and mutual assistance, featuring AED demonstrations, earthquake simulations using vibration vehicles, and discussions on managing sanitation during evacuations. The event also addressed the challenge of preventing the isolation of foreign residents during disasters due to language or cultural barriers.

On Awaji Island, a public disaster drill is scheduled for October 17 in the Fukura district. Designed to prepare for a potential Nankai Trough earthquake, the exercise aims to strengthen the disaster resilience of the tourist area. The drill focuses on coordinating rapid evacuation efforts between local residents and tourists to achieve zero casualties in the event of a tsunami or major earthquake.