Preparing for Emergencies: Essential Toilet Preparedness Tips for Your Home

In Tokyo, the government issues a monthly publication called "Kōhō Tōkyō" to keep residents informed about crucial information for daily life and public administration. The September issue focuses on practical actions to take for disaster preparedness at home.

Natural disasters such as earthquakes can severely disrupt essential services like electricity, water supply, and sewage systems, impacting everyday life significantly. One critical aspect often overlooked is toilet preparedness. Reports indicate that during the Great East Japan Earthquake, approximately 30% of individuals felt the urgent need to use the restroom within just three hours of the disaster.

This article delves into the necessity of stocking up bathroom supplies and other essentials, as well as provides insights into securing furniture to mitigate risks during earthquakes.

The Importance of Toilet Stockpiling

In times of disaster, the chaos surrounding toilet access can pose three major risks: sanitation issues, health hazards, and panic leading to accidents. It's imperative to start checking what toilet safety supplies and emergency provisions your home has.

Here are some recommendations posted in the September issue:

- Assess your supplies: What do you currently have for emergency toilet situations?
- Emergency toilet kits: Prepare necessary items like portable toilets, toilet paper, hygiene products, and waste disposal bags.
- Sanitation considerations: Stock up on sanitizers, disinfectants, and gloves to maintain necessary hygiene during a crisis.

Preventing Risks During Earthquakes

Another critical aspect addressed in this month's issue is safety measures for furniture during an earthquake. Without proper securing or stabilization of furniture, the risk of injuries due to falling objects can increase significantly. Statistics reveal that between 30-50% of earthquake-related injuries are caused by falling furniture. Thus, checking for safety measures in your home is crucial.

Consider the following furniture stabilization strategies:

- Anchor heavy furniture: Secure bookshelves and cabinets to walls using brackets.
- Avoid placing heavy items on upper shelves: This can prevent items from tumbling down and causing harm during a shake.
- Use anti-tip devices: These devices can keep larger furniture pieces secure, even during strong quakes.

Additional Resources and Recommendations

In this current issue, readers are encouraged to rethink their strategies for disaster preparedness, especially in relation to bathroom supplies. It's time to ensure that your home meets the necessary requirements to handle an emergency effectively. Numerous resources are available, including emergency preparedness websites and local community initiatives, to assist residents in improving their emergency plans.

Featured Artist: Tatsuya Tanaka

The September issue also spotlights the work of Tatsuya Tanaka, a renowned miniature photographer and creator known for his innovative take on everyday objects. Through his art, he showcases the concept of reimagining ordinary items as alternatives during emergencies – a skill that proves invaluable in times of restriction. His exhibitions, including “MINIATURE LIFE” and “Tatsuya Tanaka: The World of Reimagining,” continue to attract attention both in Japan and globally.

Tanaka's Instagram has amassed over 4 million followers, with his creativity providing inspiration to find alternative methods of utilizing items in times of need, like using a flashlight as a lantern or a cardboard box as a makeshift bed.

It’s crucial to remember that creativity can be a powerful ally in times of distress, particularly when thinking of ways to cope with disasters. Be prepared, be creative, and keep your family's safety as a priority in disaster preparedness discussions.

For more information on Tokyo's emergency preparedness initiatives, access the online version of “Kōhō Tōkyō” at their website.