#Japan #Tokyo #Disaster Prevention #Kokumin Kyosai #Ground Assessment

Enhanced Ground Assessment Service Ahead of Rainy Season

As the rainy season approaches, it's vital to assess potential risks regarding flooding, liquefaction, and landslide hazards. Kokumin Kyosai Coop, officially known as the National Workers' Cooperative Association, alongside Japan Home Shield Co., Ltd., has renewed its free 'Ground Assessment Service' that started in 2021. This service will be available on May 26, 2025, enabling users to understand potential risks from earthquakes and floods.

This initiative not only provides information on disaster responsiveness but also aims to promote disaster prevention awareness before disasters strike. The updated service allows users to input their addresses to glean insights into the ground strength and risks the area may face from natural disasters, confirming the safety of their homes or workplaces. It helps users, whether they're considering purchasing a house, relocating, or wanting to assess risks associated with their parents' residences or workplaces, finding comprehensive information conveniently.

The demand for the assessment service surged significantly last year, with a staggering 307% increase in usage. This boost is attributed to heightened national awareness due to incidents such as the Noto Peninsula earthquake and the temporary announcements regarding the Nankai Trough earthquake. In addition to disaster guarantees post-event, the service aims to be a proactive tool in promoting disaster prevention and reduction initiatives.

User-Friendly Enhancements

The recent revamp of the 'Ground Assessment Service' has resulted in a more user-friendly interface. By incorporating illustrations and icons, both the search screen and assessment results have been refreshed for enhanced readability. New features, including address-saving functions and result-sharing capabilities, aim to streamline the user experience. With the rainy season approaching, it is an opportune moment for individuals to check their risks concerning flooding, liquefaction, and landslides.

Ongoing Initiatives in Disaster Prevention

Since its inception, this service has been extensively promoted through national disaster prevention events and visits to cooperative shops. Continuous efforts will focus on enhancing service usability and features, strengthening the network for disaster awareness and readiness. Kokumin Kyosai Coop is committed to various disaster prevention activities, including:

The 'Moshi-Mo Project'

This project emphasizes the importance of preparedness for unforeseen events ('moshi-mo' means 'what if'). The initiative encourages collective considerations of potential disasters and practical preparedness.

The 'Moshi-Mo Festival'

Kicking off in 2022, this large-scale educational event aims to empower individuals to become self-sufficient during disasters. The campaign has expanded from Shibuya to Nagoya and Osaka.

Disaster Leader Diagnosis

Through a series of ten questions, participants can determine their disaster response style. This diagnosis utilizes psychological and statistical principles to help individuals understand and enhance their disaster preparedness.

National Prefectural Awareness Survey 2024

In light of recent disasters such as the Noto Peninsula earthquake, a national survey will be conducted in November 2024 to discern current perceptions and challenges in the realm of disaster awareness, contributing to better preparedness strategies.

Since its foundation in 1957, Kokumin Kyosai Coop has advocated the principle of mutual support. With the changing landscape due to an aging population and the incidence of large-scale disasters, the organization aims to foster a society based on solidarity and safety, working closely with the community. They are also an active participant in promoting the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), indicative of their commitment to long-term progressive initiatives.

For complete details about the service or ongoing programs, visit:
Ground Assessment Service
Moshi-Mo Project
Disaster Leader Diagnosis
National Awareness Survey