Prepare for Emergencies with Google Pixel and Starlink Direct at Travel Safety Event

Prepare for Emergencies with Google Pixel and Starlink Direct

On December 25 and 26, KDDI Corporation hosted a special event called 'Travel Disaster Preparedness Center' at the Sanagi Shinjuku outdoor event space in Tokyo. This event was designed to encourage travelers to reconsider emergency preparedness as they head into the busy year-end and new year travel season. With a focus on being proactive, visitors could engage in various exhibits, quiz rallies, and demonstrations that spotlighted the importance of being ready for unforeseen circumstances while traveling.

In light of the past two years since the Noto Peninsula Earthquake that struck in January 2024, awareness surrounding natural disasters in daily life has risen, yet a recent survey among 30,000 people revealed that awareness of disaster preparedness while traveling is still lacking. Participants who had experienced disasters while traveling reported challenges related to their smartphones, ranking them among the top difficulties encountered. This prompted KDDI to collaborate with experts to create a resource titled 'Travel Checklist for Disaster Preparedness,' which visitors could interact with at the event and access online through a dedicated site.

Event Highlights

The event featured an immense map of Japan, inviting attendees to mark their travel destinations with stickers, which served as a fun way to engage while still preparing mentally for travel safety. This interactive display encouraged attendees to reflect on their own preparedness levels.

Moreover, a survey panel asking, 'Are you aware of disaster preparedness during your travels?' revealed alarming results, with only about 32.6% of respondents indicating they were conscious of such precautions. Many visitors were taken aback by their own lack of awareness about preparedness while traveling, highlighting the event's importance.

Packing for Travel Safety

The event presented useful tips for packing with disaster preparedness in mind. Attendees learned about essential services to check for emergencies, the importance of storing medical information in their smartphones, and ensuring they have the phone numbers of their travel companions. Various common items that could double as disaster preparedness tools were showcased, transforming the learning process into an engaging game format.

Upon Arrival

Once travelers reach their destinations, it’s also crucial to check for emergency exits and familiarize themselves with evacuation routes. The event featured quizzes that not only instructed on identifying these exits but also emphasized how crucial this knowledge is for safety during unexpected scenarios.

Safety in Outdoor Activities

For those planning to enjoy outdoor activities, safety is paramount. Attendees learned how to utilize Google Maps effectively in remote areas and how to stay connected with the 'au Starlink Direct' service. Demonstrations depicted how smartphones could remain functional even in areas without cellular coverage, providing peace of mind for outdoor enthusiasts.

Utilizing Technology Effectively

The 'au Starlink Direct' service, designed to connect smartphones directly to satellites, offers connectivity even in the most isolated areas. This technology empowers users to communicate, share locations, and receive emergency alerts, all vital during a disaster. With the demonstrations showcasing the Google Pixel’s features, visitors gained insight into how to navigate and utilize these functions effectively in distressing situations.

Insights from an Expert

Professor Shosuke Sato of Tohoku University's International Research Institute for Disaster Science also contributed valuable insights on enhancing disaster preparedness, emphasizing the need for additional precautions during travel. He expressed that tracking hazards via layered hazard maps and knowing emergency contacts is paramount. Sato points out the significance of being mentally prepared, stressing that sometimes it’s wise not to rush home during emergencies but rather to extend one’s stay to ensure safety.

Conclusion

KDDI's 'Travel Disaster Preparedness Center' event was a timely reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness while traveling, combining education and interactivity. Attendees walked away with practical knowledge that could save lives, reimagining how they approach travel safety with the innovative capabilities of their smartphones. For more details on traveling safely, visit the dedicated travel safety site: Travel Disaster Preparedness.