This disaster was a turning point that raised the awareness of the need for disaster prevention, and it was recognized that protecting residents from unexpected disaster is a fundamental duty of local government. The national government is now collaborating with local authorities on comprehensive anti-disaster measures.
The FDMA is a pivotal national agency in charge of risk management and is supporting local fire-fighting and disaster-prevention activities via the 'Saigaini Tsuyoi Anzenna Machizukuri' program.
Strengthening of information-gathering and dispatch system and disaster quick-response system
A quick-simulation system for instant prediction of earthquake damage via PCs was developed to help enable appropriate primary response in time of disaster.
Building safe communities
The FDMA gives full support to local authorities in fulfilling their disaster-prevention programs.
Enhancement of neighborhood disaster prevention activities and volunteer work in time of disaster
The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake underlined the importance of independent disaster prevention and also made people more aware of the need for volunteer work.
Reinforcement of fire and disaster prevention
In December 1996, the emergency fire brigade established after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake played an active role in the aftermath of the Gamahara-zawa avalanche.
