[Prepare for the Nankai Trough Earthquake!] A List of Disaster Prevention Items

Japan has more natural disasters than any other country, including typhoons and torrential rains, as well as major earthquakes such as the Nankai Trough Earthquake and an earthquake directly under the Tokyo metropolitan area, which are said to be certain to occur in the near future. Living in such a country, we want to be as prepared as possible.

So this time, we're focusing on disaster prevention goods that will save your life. We've selected items that you should buy to prepare for disasters. We've also listed the order of importance, so let's start by taking measures that you can do!

Prepare an evacuation bag containing disaster prevention essentials

When disaster strikes, it is not possible to take many things with you. Because of the danger of aftershocks, it is necessary to evacuate as quickly as possible. That is why it is important to prepare an evacuation bag in advance that contains emergency supplies. To ensure that you can take the evacuation bag with you in any situation, place the bag by the entrance, in the hallway, in the living room, or some other location where you can quickly grab it and take it with you in the event of a disaster.

The items you should put in your evacuation bag will need to change depending on the situation, but we will first introduce the bare minimum of essential items. You will need to be able to carry it on your back when evacuating, so make sure you have everything you need.

Importance: ★★★
Something you should definitely have!

Helmet (disaster prevention hood)

In the event of an earthquake, fire, or flood, whether inside or outside the house, you never know what will hit you or how it will hit you. For this reason, helmets are extremely important items, not only to protect your head from falling or flying objects, but also to protect it from sparks in the event of a fire.

Gloves, Military Gloves

It is necessary to protect your hands when removing obstacles. In winter or in cold regions, it plays an important role in protecting your hands from the cold.

Flashlight, headlamp

In the event of a power outage, electricity is also essential. Long-lasting, shock-resistant LED lights and headlights that allow you to keep both hands free are best.

Rain gear (raincoats and ponchos)

Getting wet in the rain can rob you of more body heat than you can imagine. In places where you cannot keep warm, you may fall ill or, in the worst case, die. Therefore, raincoats, ponchos, and other raincoats are essential. If possible, you should have a top and bottom layer.

Masks

They can be used to protect your throat from dust immediately after a major earthquake, and to prevent infectious diseases in evacuation shelters, etc. If possible, prepare some, including spares.

Disaster prevention shoes

Various road surface conditions can be expected during a disaster. In the event of an earthquake, ground subsidence due to liquefaction, collapse of roads due to ground upheaval, and scattering of glass due to broken window panes are all possible. ...... It is recommended to prepare sturdy shoes such as trekking shoes or disaster prevention shoes to protect yourself from dangers underfoot.

Be sure to also prepare the following items!

Drinking water (3 liters per person per day is a rough estimate)
Foods (instant noodles, canned food, biscuits, chocolates, etc. that can be stored for a long time)
Items that can be used to identify yourself and emergency contact information (copy of driver's license, emergency contact card with photo, etc.)
First aid supplies (bandages, bandages, antiseptic solution, medicine, etc.)
Portable radio (don't forget spare batteries)
Clothing (change of clothes for each person)
Blankets (Keep warm as it can get cold in shelters)
Toiletries (toothbrush, towel, wet wipes)
Portable toilet (toilets may not be available)

Even if you know what you should prepare, you may be unsure of what to choose. From here on, we will introduce some useful items that are convenient to have on hand for each category.

Foods

Food is essential in times of disaster, so it is recommended that you choose foods that can be stored even without a refrigerator.

[Flour] Importance: ★★★★★

It can be eaten in a variety of ways, such as udon, yasuton, etc. It also stores well, so it's a good idea to keep an extra bag on hand as an emergency food source.

[Dried beans] Importance: ★★★★★

If you don't mind the flavor, dried beans can be eaten for years. High in protein and a staple food, beans are one of the essential foods in emergencies.

[Honey] Importance: ★★★

Honey is also something that has no expiration date. It is rich in nutrients and full of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, and other important nutrients for the body. It is also quickly absorbed, so it can be a source of energy when your strength is weak. It is also a disinfectant and can be used for wounds, making it a definite all-purpose food to have on hand! If possible, 100% pure honey is best.

▼Raw honey (YS Organic Bee Farm)
https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000Z93FQC/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_5T-CFbSDVX4TB

Seasonings that can be stored at room temperature, such as salt, miso, soy sauce, etc.] Importance: ★★

Just as people in the past carried miso with them when traveling, miso is a seasoning rich in salt and can be stored at room temperature. We want to be prepared with seasonings so that we can prepare meals even if we cannot use the refrigerator!

[Keep a rolling stock of rice] Importance: ★★

Rolling stock is a method of stocking a household with three days to a week's worth of food and using it, buying more as needed as it decreases. If a family normally buys a 1kg bag of rice, they should buy an extra bag in addition to the white rice they are currently using, and when that bag is opened, they should buy another 3kg of rice. It is best to keep it refrigerated for storage, but if you want to buy it in quantities that will take more than a month to consume, it is recommended to buy brown rice, which keeps better than white rice. It will taste good for a year, especially if it is not stored in a bad environment.

▼About Rolling Stock
https://www.maff.go.jp/j/zyukyu/foodstock/network/rolling.html

[Make preserved foods] Importance: ★★

It's a good idea to prepare preserved foods when you have time. For example, when daikon radishes are cheap, you can buy them in bulk and make kiriboshi daikon (dried daikon strips) to preserve, or you can prepare and store fermented foods and bottled foods that can be stored for a long time.

[Freeze cut vegetables] Importance: ★★

Techniques for preparing rather than stockpiling are also introduced.
Cut up vegetables and keep them in the freezer as a rolling stock, eating and preparing on a daily basis. Freezing vegetables allows them to be stored for a long period of time, so by freezing a little extra, you can be prepared to have something to eat when something happens.

[Dry food and emergency food]  Importance: ★★★

Dried and canned foods can be stored for a long time.
Dried foods include vermicelli, dried tofu, dried shiitake mushrooms, dried daikon radish, wakame seaweed, and oatmeal. For emergency rations, you can use the standard emergency rations such as Alpha rice, canned bread, Glico Bisco preserves, etc. If possible, they are delicious cold and can be stored for a long time. If possible, choose foods that taste good even when cold and do not need to be heated!

▼Emergency food
https://www.bousaikan.jp/tokusyu/180129.html#4

Medical supplies

Please refer to the following for medical supplies that you should have ready in case of a disaster.

[Purified water] Importance: ★★★★★

Purified water, which can be purchased relatively cheaply at pharmacies and supermarkets, is a very useful item.

- Wash off when injured
・Skin care
・Contact lens cleaning solution
・Emergency water

You can also use it as a disinfectant by mixing it with a small amount of bleach!

[Keep a complete set of first aid supplies] Importance: ★★★

Oxydol and disinfectant solution are essential for disinfecting wounds! It is very convenient to have one First Aid Kit with detailed first aid supplies all in one.

[Furoshiki] Importance: ★★★★

Large furoshiki (wrapping cloth) can be used in a variety of ways, such as to wrap or carry things in ordinary times, as first aid for broken bones or to stop bleeding, to protect against cold by wrapping or covering the neck, to protect privacy (blindfold), bags, and more. They are also thin and lightweight, making them easy to carry. Carrying it in your bag on a regular basis is another way to prepare for disasters.

The recommended item is the "Shemagh", a famous airsoft item. It is also called an Afghan stole! Depending on how you fold and wrap it, it can be used as a mask, sunshade, skin protection, water absorbency, quick drying, and can even be used as a towel.

[Saran Wrap] Importance: ★★★

Salan (plastic) wrap is useful for many purposes. For example, you can cut it to the desired length and crumple it into a ball to use as a sponge. If you don't have gauze or clean cloth, you can clean the wound and then wrap it in plastic wrap. It can also be used as a sling to immobilize your arm. Just wrap it around your neck or wrist for excellent heat retention!

[Napkins] Importance: ★★★

Sanitary napkins can be used as tourniquets, and larger ones can also be used as a substitute for baby diapers if you don't have one.

Firearms

It is said that in the event of a disaster, you must survive on your own for at least three days. After securing water and food, the most essential thing is "fire." If you understand that fire can be used in a variety of ways, it can be extremely useful in the event of a disaster.

[Paracord] Importance: ★★★

Paracord is a strong, abrasion-resistant rope. It is something you should always have on hand because it can be used in a variety of situations during emergencies. It is made of a material that is easy to ignite, so in an emergency, you can unravel the rope and use it as a fire starter. Rope is a useful tool, so you should always have it on hand!

[Hemp string] Importance: ★★★★

Similarly, if you loosen it up and let air in, it makes a great fire starter!
It is easily available at 100 yen shops, and can be used as a rope, a fire starter, and for other everyday purposes, so it is a tool you'll want to keep on hand.

[Fire Starter] Importance: ★★

A fire starter is like a "flint" that is made by rubbing stones together to create sparks. They are useful in situations where lighters and matches cannot be used due to rain or submersion in water. Since the spark is ignited by rubbing the stones together, it can be used even when wet.

It is compact and can be worn as a backpack, keychain, etc. When igniting, hemp cord or paracord makes it easier to ignite, so it is recommended to have a set of these items available!

[Gas canisters and portable stoves] Importance: ★★

Gas canisters are relatively inexpensive and are one of the most important items to stock up on. Many people cook outdoors with portable stoves these days, so many people probably keep a portable stove on hand. A standard portable stove is fine, but considering that you will be cooking outside, it is a good idea to choose one that is wind-resistant. Portable stoves are also becoming available, so it is a good idea to have one in the house.

＜People like this should buy gas canisters! > 
・We don't usually go to outdoor shops.
・We want to cook easily with a burner or stove.
・We often use portable stove at home.

[outdoor gas bottle & stove] Importance: ★
Outdoor gas bottles are gas cans designed for outdoor use, and are characterized by their stable output even when used outdoors. Many people who go hiking or do outdoor activities have them.

This can be used in high altitudes and cold places, and has a strong flame. Gas canisters are inexpensive, but in cold areas the flame may weaken or not light at all. It's a good idea to have two types so you can use them according to the environment.

▼Gas canisters
https://camphack.nap-camp.com/1130

[Refill adapter] Importance: ★

If you use an outdoor gas bottle and run out of gas, you obviously can't buy more in the event of a disaster, right? There are gas cartridges, but they have a different opening so obviously you can't use them. In times like these, a refill adapter comes in handy. Outdoor gas bottles are only available at home improvement stores and specialty stores, but you can refill gas from gas cartridges, which can be purchased at convenience stores.

▼Refill adapter
https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B07KS259MG/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_EdWCFbXW24R6T

[Binchotan or charcoal] Importance: ★★★★

If you have a charcoal grill, campfire stove, or BBQ stove, it's a good idea to keep some binchotan charcoal on hand! Cooking with a campfire or gas is fine, but the flame lasts longer. (It's more fuel-efficient.)

A bonfire will go out if you don't add more firewood, but gas will also run out pretty quickly if you cook for a long time. Once charcoal is lit, it will continue to burn for a long time, so if you buy a box, you don't have to worry about fuel for a while. The food cooked is delicious and you can stay warm.

Also, charcoal doesn't have an expiration date. It can be stored almost indefinitely, depending on how it's stored, so it's fine to keep it at home. Charcoal is cheap, but it produces smoke, so be sure to use it outside.

There are also other products that are easy to light, so these are also recommended for beginners.

[Oil (cooking oil can be used instead)] Importance: ★

This is not common, but would be nice to have? This is not a common item, but it would be nice to have.
First aid for when the wood used for lighting a fire or charcoal cannot be ignited because it has been rained on or the wood is too damp.
Oil can be used to temporarily build a large fire, which is useful for igniting the fire.

[Pocket torch] Importance: ★★

Ordinary lighters and match flames are weak in wind and are useless in strong winds.
Pocket torches have the same heat as a burner, so they are windproof and great to have on hand in case of a disaster. Some can be filled with gas, while others can be used by inserting a regular lighter into them.
There are also waterproof, splash-proof and dust-proof models available.

▼Pocket Torch
https://camphack.nap-camp.com/1140

Residential

[Oil lantern] Importance: ★★★

An oil lantern is also a must-have item for emergency lighting. Oil lanterns do not have a strong light, but they are recommended because they use very little oil.

Paraffin oil is relatively inexpensive, even at 2 liters. (It's not easy to use up 2 liters.) Gas and LED lanterns burn out after a few days, but an oil lantern is reassuring.

However, since it uses fire, caution is advised in households with children. The light itself is not strong, so it is a lantern to be used as a secondary light, such as lighting up the area around the table. You will need to have another lantern with a strong light source to use as your main light!

[Plastic tarp] Importance: ★★★

Make sure you have plastic tarps on hand. They are readily available and have multiple uses.
You can attach a rope to it and use it as a tarp over something, or you can sit on it on wet ground, or wrap it around your body to keep warm.

[Down quilt] Importance: ★★★★

Not many people may have a down comforter as part of their disaster preparedness kit. Down has three great features: it's light, compact, and warm.

Down sleeping bags for outdoor use are expensive, but as a disaster prevention item, you can fold up a thin duvet and stuff it into a cushion cover to use as a cushion. If you take it out, it can also be used as a futon, so it is recommended to keep it in that form.

[Air mats and mattresses] Importance: ★★

During a long evacuation, the sleeping environment is very important. It is hard to continue sleeping on a board, so it is good to have items to make the sleeping place comfortable. There are things that you can easily inflate by stepping on them, and things that inflate automatically, but it is good to have something that you can easily use in your own home and have space to store it.

Some items can be purchased for less than 3,000 yen, so be sure to check them out!

[Car inverter] Importance: ★

A car inverter that converts the electricity flowing from the car's battery so that household appliances can be used. This is useful when you want to use a household power cord to charge your phone, lights, etc. during a power outage. You cannot use it for items that use a lot of power, but it can power a few things, so it is a good idea to keep one around.

[Solar rechargeable battery with hand crank] Importance: ★★

The solar rechargeable battery with hand crank is a convenient item that can generate power in the event of a power outage due to a disaster or in an environment without an outlet. It can be used at evacuation sites or outdoors because it can generate power and charge electronic devices simply by turning the handle attached to the main unit.

Many of the latest products are very good and can be used for multiple purposes such as lighting, recharging, and radio at relatively low cost. With the outdoor boom, many people are using these tools for camping, but it is also a must to have them as emergency supplies!

Others

[Large garbage bag] Importance: ★★★

Garbage bags can be used for a variety of purposes. They can be used as rain gear by cutting into them, or as pillows by filling them with air and closing them tightly. Of course, they are also necessary for storing garbage and waste, so be sure to always have them on hand.

[Knife] Importance: ★★

In a survival environment, a knife is a must! But in a disaster situation, you may not be deep in the mountains, but you can cut things, chop firewood, shave wood, scrape firestarters, and so on. Keep at least one knife in your emergency bag.

If you intend to use it for chopping firewood, choose a full tang with a blade and handle in one piece. The blade length should be 10 cm or longer, but not too large, so it is recommended to choose one that fits your hand.

[Duct tape/Vinyl tape] Importance: ★★★

Duct tape is also versatile! When fixing something, stopping bleeding, or anything else, it's a good idea to have some adhesive tape on hand!

[Toilet coagulant] Importance: ★★

Since what is sold as a portable toilet is for a single use, it is more economical to buy a kilo or so of coagulant. 1 kilo is enough for about 100 uses, so you may want to keep a few bags on hand.

[Thin disposable rubber gloves] Importance: ★★

You may spend some time in an evacuation or other environment with poor hygiene. Since they are not that expensive, it is a good idea to keep a box of them. It is one of the products that easily disappears from the market like masks, so it is a good idea to buy them when you find them.

Let's improve our camping gear!

Finally, I believe that camping is the best way to learn about disaster prevention while having fun, and it is the best way to accumulate the "power to protect life. While enjoying camping, you can acquire not only knowledge about disaster prevention, but also wisdom and skills to survive in any situation while having fun.

You should have a complete set for outdoor living while enjoying your camping trip! The camping gear will cover most of your needs in the event of a disaster, and mastering the outdoors will make you stronger in the event of a disaster. Recently, home camping has been attracting attention, and we would like to take this opportunity to pass on disaster prevention knowledge to your children through outdoor activities!

This time, we introduced disaster prevention goods that you should prepare in case of emergency. In an emergency, only you can protect yourself. For that reason, it is important to prepare disaster prevention goods and be prepared for emergencies.