【Explained by a Former Firefighter】Earthquake Safety at Night｜Preparation Before Sleep Prevents Serious Injuries

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.

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■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.

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■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.

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■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.

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■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.

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■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.

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■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.

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■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.

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■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.

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■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.