Nighttime earthquakes are especially dangerous. Darkness, confusion, and sudden waking cause people to move blindly into hazards. From my experience as a former firefighter responding to nighttime disasters, I have seen that most injuries occur not during shaking, but in the first moments after waking. This article explains how to stay safe when an earthquake strikes at night.
- ■① Why Nighttime Earthquakes Are More Dangerous
- ■② Prepare Your Bedroom Before Going to Sleep
- ■③ What to Do When Shaking Wakes You Up
- ■④ Protect Yourself From Broken Glass
- ■⑤ Be Prepared for Power Outages
- ■⑥ Prepare for Aftershocks While It Is Still Dark
- ■⑦ Evacuate Only If Absolutely Necessary
- ■⑧ Nighttime Preparation for Families
- ■まとめ｜Night Preparation Saves Lives
■① Why Nighttime Earthquakes Are More Dangerous
At night, people face added risks:
- Limited visibility
- Disorientation after waking
- Bare feet and broken glass
- Delayed reaction time
These factors turn small mistakes into serious injuries.
■② Prepare Your Bedroom Before Going to Sleep
Night safety begins before the earthquake:
- Place a flashlight within arm’s reach
- Keep sturdy shoes beside the bed
- Secure shelves and furniture near sleeping areas
- Avoid sleeping near windows
Preparation reduces confusion when seconds matter.
■③ What to Do When Shaking Wakes You Up
If shaking starts while you are asleep:
- Stay in bed if it is safe
- Cover your head and neck with a pillow
- Keep your body low
- Do not try to run in the dark
Most nighttime injuries happen while people try to stand or walk.
■④ Protect Yourself From Broken Glass
Glass is a major nighttime hazard:
- Do not step on the floor without shoes
- Avoid windows and mirrors
- Use a flashlight before moving
Cuts to feet and legs are extremely common at night.
■⑤ Be Prepared for Power Outages
Night earthquakes often cause blackouts:
- Use flashlights, not candles
- Keep spare batteries nearby
- Expect alarms and emergency broadcasts
Fire risk increases when people use open flames.
■⑥ Prepare for Aftershocks While It Is Still Dark
Aftershocks may follow quickly:
- Stay alert even after shaking stops
- Remain in a safe position
- Do not rush evacuation
Aftershocks cause many secondary injuries.
■⑦ Evacuate Only If Absolutely Necessary
If evacuation is required:
- Follow planned routes
- Avoid cluttered stairways
- Never use elevators
- Bring only essential items
Leaving safely matters more than leaving quickly.
■⑧ Nighttime Preparation for Families
Families should plan together:
- Teach children where to stay at night
- Keep emergency supplies accessible
- Practice nighttime earthquake drills
Practice reduces panic when lights are out.
■まとめ｜Night Preparation Saves Lives
Nighttime earthquakes are survivable when preparation replaces panic. Simple actions before sleep prevent serious injuries in the dark.
結論：
As a former firefighter who has responded to nighttime earthquake scenes, I have seen that people who prepare their bedrooms and stay in place during shaking avoid the most serious injuries. Darkness increases danger—but preparation turns night into survivable conditions.
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