Being prepared for typhoons and floods
In Japan from summer through autumn, there are many typhoons that bring strong winds and torrential rain which can cause landslides and flood damage. To be prepared for such strong winds and floods, the following points should be given attention.
(1)    Your residence should be fully inspected. In order to keep damage to a minimum, repairs and reinforcements should be carried out.
(2)    Window glass, etc. should be reinforced with gummed tape or vinyl tape. If there are shutters, they should be closed.
(3)    Boxes, flowerpots and other objects in the garden or on the balcony should be fastened or taken into the house to prevent them from being blown around by strong winds.
(4)    Television antennas etc. should be reinforced with splints, wire, etc.
(5)    Clear drains, shores and water tubs of any dirt and debris to ensure good drainage.
(6)    If you live in a lowland area or in an area where flooding is possible, you should place furniture and electrical appliances as high as possible.
(7)    In the event of a blackout (electric power failure), have a flashlight, portable radio, etc. in a set place familiar to each member of the family.
(8)    Keep things you need to take with you in an emergency in a convenient place.
(9)    Confirm where the nearest disaster shelter is and how to get there. Confirm whether or not your residence is in a safe district. Information can be found in the Kiken Kasho Zu (Danger Zones Map) at your city, ward, town or village office, fire department office or civil engineering department (names may vary depending on district) concerning the location of disaster shelters and the threat of heavy rain-induced landslides in certain areas.


If a typhoon comes
(1)    Do not go out in strong winds. If you must go out, wear a helmet or thick hat.
(2)    Do not go near fallen utility poles or sagging cables.
(3)    Pay close attention to weather forecasts. If a warning to evacuate the area is given, evacuate as quickly as possible. Families with elderly or sick persons or infants should evacuate early.


Risai Shomei-sho (Disaster Victim Certificate)
It is necessary to have a Risai Shomei-sho (Disaster Victim Certificate) when applying for tax deductions or a tax reprieve for victims of storms and floods.
Application forms for a Risai Shomei-sho may be obtained at each city, ward, town or village office or from a fire department.


Note 1 　For details, ask a person who understands Japanese to enquire for you at your city, ward, town or village office or your nearest fire department or police station.

Note 2 　The information given is that confirmed as of July 2002. Note that a new system or system revisions may have been introduced after this date.

This information is from the CLAIR website. The Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR) was established in July 1988 in response to rising concerns about local level internationalization in Japan.