Using QR Codes for Disaster Preparedness
Evacuation Guidance
Municipalities are adding QR codes to evacuation shelter signs that open the shelter location in Google Maps when scanned. For tourists and foreigners unfamiliar with the area, map app navigation provides significant reassurance.
Linking to multilingual pages conveys evacuation routes to non-Japanese speakers. Distributing QR codes linking to hazard maps during disaster drills is also becoming common.
Carrying Family Emergency Contacts via QR Code
Encode all family members' phone numbers, email addresses, and meeting points in vCard format as a QR code, kept in a wallet or phone case. Even if your phone battery dies during a disaster, someone else can scan the QR code to access contact information.
Attaching QR codes to children's belongings (school bags, name tags) allows quick access to guardian contact information if separated.
Carrying Medical Information
Store medical conditions, medications, allergies, blood type, and primary care physician contacts in a QR code carried alongside medication notebooks and insurance cards. Even if unconscious during emergency transport, paramedics can scan the QR code for immediate access to critical medical information.
While personal data handling requires care, rapid access to life-critical information takes priority. Use a static QR code without password protection or design for emergency accessibility.
Sharing Emergency Supply Lists
Compile household emergency supplies and storage locations on a web page, convert to a QR code, and post on the refrigerator or entrance. All family members can locate supplies, and it doubles as a periodic inspection checklist.
Including stockpiled food with expiration dates makes checking easy. Managing via Google Sheets ensures updates by any family member are reflected in real time.