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Fire fighters with the Iwakuni City Fire Department demonstrate rescue training during a disaster preparedness workshop in Iwakuni City, Japan, Aug. 25, 2018. The Iwakuni City Fire Department hosted the course to better prepare station residents for emergency situations in Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Seth Rosenberg)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Seth Rosenberg

Stop, drop, roll: MCAS Iwakuni residents participate in disaster preparedness workshop

28 Aug 2018 | Lance Cpl. Seth Rosenberg Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni residents attended a disaster preparedness workshop hosted by Iwakuni City, Japan, Aug. 25, 2018.

The workshop included rescue demonstrations, classes on safety procedures and hands-on training in emergency situations. Iwakuni City held the workshop to prepare residents for natural disasters that may occur in the area.

“Recently we had a flood so people are scared of what’s going on outside,” said Mikie Watanabe, a cultural adaptation specialist with Marine Corps Community Services Iwakuni. “This workshop is a good way to prepare for disasters like that.”

Participants started off in the classroom, where they were given handouts and a class on what to do in specific emergencies.

After the class, the participants moved to a garage where they learned about emergency service vehicles operating in Iwakuni City. Moving to the rappel tower, Iwakuni City Fire Department members demonstrated a casualty rescue training scenario for the participants

When I heard about this event I just expected to have fun with the simulations, but I actually learned a lot about preparing for emergencies, said Christina Sochanchak, a resident of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni.

The participants then watched a video on flood safety, and they received hands-on training with fire extinguishers, as well as evacuating smoke-filled rooms and an earthquake simulation.

“My favorite part was the simulation room,” said Sochanchak. “I’ve seen a fire extinguisher before, but I’ve never tried using it before so it was one of those hands-on experiences that was valuable.”

Iwakuni City hosted the course specifically for foreigners unfamiliar with environmental hazards in Japan. To participate in the disaster preparedness workshop and other cultural workshops, please contact the cultural adaptation program located on the third floor of building 411 on MCAS Iwakuni.


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Set your own course through any hazard: stay informed, make a plan, build a kit. Live Ready Marine Corps.