Latest News

On September 28, as part of the Players’ Fund activities, a disaster preparedness event was held in Kochi coinciding with the Catchball Classic. The Players Fund was launched in December 2021 with the Japan Professional Baseball Players Association (JPBPA) to support speedy and effective disaster response activities.

The 562 student participants visited exhibition booths set up by local fire departments and businesses and learned about disaster preparedness through hands-on exercises. A scavenger hunt was organized to improve disaster preparedness and response capabilities. 

The fire department booth offered CPR and AED training. 

Another booth set up by a local business specializing in cardboard demonstrated beds and play equipment made from cardboard.

The children studied hazard maps and came up with evacuation routes.

The Johnson & Johnson Japan Group booth introduced lessons learned from the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake and Yamagata flood relief activities. They also explained the significance of preparing a list of items to bring in case of evacuation.

At Kao Attack's Laundry booth the participants learned how to do laundry with a small amount of water when washing machines cannot be used because of water or power outages during disasters.

Pictured above: Booth 4, a quiz game from the Kochi Fire Department

Toyota showcased electric vehicles. When a power outage occurs during a disaster, a hybrid vehicle can act as a power source for charging phones and other household appliances.

At Booth 6, the students saw how a drone can be utilized to deliver relief supplies to isolated areas.

In her closing speech, Civic Force Executive Director Kaori Neki said, “Kochi Prefecture is an area that is expected to be hit hard by the Nankai Trough. We have high hopes for you all as leaders who are responsible for disaster preparedness in the region as well as your success in baseball.'' 

The following partners supported the event:

Suntory Holdings Limited

Kao

Takenaka Danboru (Cardboard)

Konami

Kochi Prefecture