2. Foreign Resident Support in the Event of a Disaster

Foreign Resident Support in Times of Disaster

１．Multilingual Disaster Support Desk　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

The Multilingual Support Desk for Disasters will operate in times of emergency to provide necessary information in simplified Japanese and other languages to foreigners living in Iwate, as well as to offer additional support through various consultations. Established by Iwate Prefecture and operated by the Iwate International Association (International Exchange Center)


２.Supporters for Foreigners During Disasters

[Regardless of your language abilities, you can now register!] We are looking for Supporters who can offer aid to foreign residents in times of disaster to ensure that they can evacuate safely and receive appropriate help at evacuation centers despite language or cultural barriers.

Disaster Supporter Recruitment Flyer
▲Disaster Supporter Recruitment Flyer

Duties

  • When disaster occurs or danger is imminent, you will take the initiative to relay necessary information to foreigners and guide them to evacuate.
  • You will relay important information to any nearby foreigners in a language they will understand to the best of your abilities.
  • When able, you will help various organizations asking for assistance regarding foreigners.

Registration Requirements

Registration is open to those who meet the following criteria

  • 18 years or older
  • Live in Iwate Prefecture (or commute for school/work)
  • Have experience in activities related to supporting foreigners or have taken a course designated by the Iwate International Association

How to Registe

If you meet all the requirements, please submit your registration form to the Iwate International Association.

Files

About the Former “Iwate Multilingual Disaster Supporter” Certification System

Those who have been certified as an “Iwate Multilingual Disaster Supporter” will continue as such, and upon the expiration of the certification period, will be switched to the new registration system.

3　Benefits of “Easy Japanese” During Times of Disaster

　“Easy Japanese” is Japanese that is simplified and easier for foreigners to understand. The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake of January 1995 affected both Japanese and foreigners alike. Several of those foreigners could not understand Japanese or English enough to receive necessary information. To combat this, “Easy Japanese” was devised, enabling everyone to take appropriate actions in the event of a disaster. (Taken from “Easy Japanese for Disaster Mitigation” by the Research Institute for Sociolinguistics, Hirosaki University Faculty of Humanities.)
The Iwate International Association actively promotes the “Easy Japanese” initiative to ensure the protection of foreigners during disasters.
If you would like to hold a course on “Easy Japanese” or other courses in your community, please contact us at the Iwate International Association.

4　Booklet “What You Can Do to Protect Foreigners from Disasters – What Each of Us Can Do”

The Iwate International Association has compiled a booklet on what we can all do to support foreigners in times of disaster. Please feel free to download it and refer to it at any time.
What You Can Do to Protect Foreigners from Disasters – What Each of Us Can Do