Japan's government plans to ask all citizens to stockpile at least three days' worth of food and water in preparation for disasters such as major earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The aim is to encourage households to prepare self-help measures, given the possibility that government rescue and relief efforts could be delayed immediately after a disaster.
Disaster Management Minister Goshi Hosono said he plans to issue an "urgent request" to the public to strengthen disaster preparedness on the 2nd of next month, timed to the launch of the new disaster management agency, according to FNN, an affiliate of Japan's Fuji TV, on the 27th. The request will also be conveyed to central government ministries and all prefectures.
"At Least Three Days, a Week if Possible" — Government Calls for Emergency Supplies
Appearing on Fuji TV's online program, Hosono said: "I would like to say at least three days' worth, and a week's worth if possible." He added, "Please prepare enough food, toilet supplies and water at home so that you can manage even without public support from the government."
The disasters the Japanese government is guarding against include a megaquake along the Nankai Trough, a direct-hit earthquake under the capital, massive earthquakes around the Kuril and Japan trenches, and an eruption of Mount Fuji.
If a disaster of that scale occurs, key infrastructure such as roads and communications networks could be damaged, leaving outside assistance unable to arrive in time. Residents therefore need to keep emergency supplies on hand so they can sustain themselves until rescue personnel arrive.
Hosono also cited improving living conditions at evacuation shelters as a key task. The plan calls for expanding basic facilities such as toilets, hot meals and beds, as well as bathing facilities, to ease the hardship faced by disaster victims.
U.K. Also Advises Three Days of Emergency Supplies, Including Water, Food and Cash
The British government has likewise advised its citizens to prepare emergency supplies sufficient for at least three days.
The U.K. Cabinet Office launched a campaign called "Be Ready" on the 22nd to improve the public's ability to respond to emergencies.
The aim is for households to be able to get by for at least 72 hours even if essential services such as electricity, water and telecommunications are cut off, whether by severe weather including storms and heavy rain or by cyberattacks.
The emergency supplies outlined by the British government include three liters of drinking water per person per day and food that can be eaten without cooking. Flashlights, spare batteries, portable chargers, radios and cash are also on the list.
The government said, however, that there is no need to buy emergency supplies all at once. It advised building up stockpiles gradually by adding a few necessary items during regular grocery shopping.