Domestic Disaster Response Program
Emergency drill with Setagaya Ward
using a Balloon Shelter.
(C)Peace Winds Japan
In preparation for potential large-scale earthquake disasters that may occur in the future, PWJ strengthened its cooperation with municipalities and companies. In March 2006, PWJ executed a Natural Disaster Relief Agreement with Katsushika Ward in Tokyo on condition that PWJ uses large tents called "Balloon Shelters" to support victims in the event of natural disasters such as earthquakes directly hitting the Tokyo metropolitan area. In May, PWJ also executed a similar agreement with Setagaya Ward in Tokyo, and later PWJ participated in emergency drills conducted in these wards as well as Fukuroi City in Shizuoka Prefecture. PWJ had previously executed an agreement with Fukuroi City. PWJ proposed the utilization of Balloon Shelters to Nippon Oil Corporation a company interested in support operations in times of natural disaster. The company introduced Balloon Shelters, and subsequently in January 2007, executed a Natural Disaster Relief Agreement with Kawasaki City, where the company's factory is located.
In order to enhance PWJ's support system, PWJ began recruiting volunteers to be used exclusively for domestic disaster relief operations. As a result, 10 volunteers have registered, and PWJ provided them with training in July. Also, PWJ procured temporary toilets that can be used even by disabled people in times of natural disaster (universal toilets) and cooking utensils for preparing meals so that they can be utilized during the operation of shelters. Thus, in combination with PWJ's Balloon Shelters, PWJ has been able to prepare a system that could relieve the stress of victims while inhabiting shelters.