Emergency & Disaster Response Manual
What if a major earthquake hits while driving? Or your car breaks down?
To avoid panic, learn the correct procedures (which often appear in written exams) along with the reasons "why."
Breakdowns or Trouble (General Roads)
If you must stop on a general road due to unavoidable circumstances, you have the following display obligations to prevent rear-end collisions.
Since visibility is poor, signal with lights.
- Turn on Emergency Flashing Indicator Lights (Hazard Lights)
- OR Place an Emergency Warning Reflector (Triangle)
Clearly signal to following vehicles that you are stopped.
- Place an Emergency Warning Reflector (Triangle)
- OR Open the trunk to show you are parked
Rear Wheel Skid (Four-wheeled Vehicles)
How to handle it when the rear wheels slide on rain or snow.
(e.g., If the rear slides right, turn the wheel right = Counter-steer)
This helps realign the car with the direction of travel.
The tires may lock, leading to a complete loss of control (spin).
The rule is to regain control using only steering, without panicking.
Major Earthquakes / Warning Declarations
The response differs depending on whether you are "driving" or "abandoning the car to evacuate."
The condition of the car during evacuation is a crucial exam point.
- Avoid sudden steering or braking
(Shaking makes it easy to lose control) - Stop on the LEFT side of the road
(To leave the center open for emergency vehicles) - Gather info via Radio, etc.
(Do not be misled by rumors)
If you must leave your car on the road to escape, leave it in the following state.
Purpose: To allow police or Self-Defense Forces to move the car in an emergency.
- Turn off the engine
-
LEAVE the engine key PLUGGED IN
(*For keyless cars, place it in an obvious place like the dashboard) -
CLOSE the windows
(*To prevent sparks/fire from entering the vehicle) -
Do NOT LOCK the doors
(*If locked, it cannot be moved when necessary) - Take valuables with you
During warning declarations or disasters, using cars causes traffic jams and hinders evacuation/rescue. In principle, do not use cars.
However, an exception is made "when unavoidable for evacuating from a Tsunami."
Other Emergencies (Armed Attacks, etc.)
If traffic restrictions are imposed for "Civil Protection" during armed attacks, etc., general vehicles will be banned or restricted.
Move quickly off the road or to the left side and follow police instructions.
(The basic response is the same as for earthquakes: do not obstruct emergency vehicles)
To avoid hesitation in an emergency,
remember the rule: "Leave Key In, Don't Lock Doors" along with the reasons!
Training for Success!