Earthquakes, typhoons, heavy rains, heavy snowfall--
With natural disasters inevitable in Japan, it is essential for people with disabilities to be prepared for "what if" situations if they are to live in the community.
Especially for people with disabilities who live at home or attend a local group home or welfare facility,Means of Evacuation, Assistance Needed, and How to Receive Information."and others are life-threatening issues.
This article focuses on Numata City, Gunma Prefecture,Disaster preparedness for people with disabilities, and systems and services that can be utilized nowto the following.
◆ What difficulties do people with disabilities face in times of disaster?
Depending on the nature and extent of the disability, there are different risks and challenges faced during a disaster.
| Type of disability | Anticipated difficulties |
|---|---|
| visual impairment | Difficult to grasp information and confirm evacuation routes |
| hearing impairment | Difficulty in hearing evacuation information and emergency broadcasts |
| Intellectual and developmental disabilities | Difficulty coping with sudden environmental changes, possible panic |
| (physical) handicap | Evacuation routes with many stairs and steps are an obstacle. |
| mental disorder | Possibility of strong anxiety and confusion due to loud noises and crowds |
Furthermore, the psychological hurdle of "not being able to ask for help" or "not being able to ask for help" cannot be overlooked.
What is an "individual evacuation plan" by a municipality?
In the country, for those who need special assistance in times of disaster.Individual Evacuation Plans."We are promoting the formulation of
This is done by the municipality together with the individual, family members, and consultation support staff,
It is a plan to identify in advance "where to run to," "who will accompany you," and "what you will need."
Numata City Initiatives (FY2024)
- For the elderly, disabled, and those requiring medical care,Creation of a list of persons requiring support for evacuation action and maintenance of individual plansin progress.
- A consultation support specialist prepares a plan while interviewing evacuation methods and contact systems through home visits, etc.
- Ease of understanding" and "cooperation with the community" are also important.
Disaster prevention measures in cooperation with welfare services for persons with disabilities
Various efforts to prepare for disasters are also underway at local welfare facilities for the disabled.
▶ Kuninkai Initiatives
- At group homes and assisted living facilitiesRegular evacuation drillsImplementation of the
- Disability characteristics are taken into account.Evacuation Guide Manualto be prepared
- Cooperation with families, supporters, and neighborsCreating a system of mutual aid through
- Emergency food, medicine, water, charger, etc.Individual stockpilesand prepared to respond to individual situations.
In the event of a disaster, "consideration necessary because of the disability" is required, so cooperation with welfare facilities with which supporters are usually involved is very important.
Preparedness Checklist for the Home
Before going to a shelter, you should first make sure that your household is prepared for the following
✅ Check the contents of the emergency bag with the family.(according to disability characteristics)
✅ Preparation of means of obtaining information such as radios, voice terminals, writing boards, etc.
✅ Confirm contact system with supporters and neighbors on a daily basis
✅ Stockpile items that make the individual feel safe (stuffed animals, music, etc.)
✅ Check the location of welfare shelters (contact the local government website or welfare department)
◆ Some options for when you can't get to a shelter.
The environment of the shelter may not be suitable, and conversely, stress and confusion may intensify.
In that case, the following"Alternative Evacuation."One way to consider the
- Support persons' homes, group homes, etc."Familiar environmentEvacuation to "
- Overnight in a car or temporary hotel evacuation (requires coordination with local authorities)
- Discuss evacuation procedures with your counselor beforehand.
Conclusion: "Preparedness" leads to peace of mind for people with disabilities
Everyone is anxious in times of disaster, though,More serious problems for people with disabilitieswill be.
To lighten that anxiety a bit,Preparedness for normal times and understanding and support of surroundingsis essential.
In Numata City, Gunma Prefecture, institutions and corporations specializing in supporting the disabled (e.g., Kunin-kai) are promoting efforts to balance welfare services and disaster prevention.
First.Do I need an evacuation plan? Who should I talk to?"Do not hesitate to consult with support organizations from the stage of
Even if nothing is happening now, it may be too late when "the time" comes.
Let's work together to develop your and your family's "disaster preparedness" so that you can continue to live in the community with peace of mind.
Please feel free to contact us.
Disability Support Center for Everyone
Specialists provide free consultation and service utilization planning regarding welfare of persons with disabilities.
TEL：0278-25-8311
