Hino City Disaster Prevention Drill

On October 25th, the event was held in light rain.

I had the opportunity to tour the site with Mayor Koga and hear detailed explanations.

We gained a wealth of knowledge essential for disasters, including scenes of the Self-Defense Forces providing meals, pet disaster preparedness, gas, electricity, and more.

In the actual training exercise, the Hino City Disaster Cooperation Association members conducted rescues, with the fire department and volunteer fire brigade taking the lead.

In actual disaster situations, it’s easy to imagine that many unforeseen events occur.

During a general question session about cooperation with the Self-Defense Forces, I heard from a former SDF officer-turned-lawmaker that training is needed to prevent unforeseen events from happening.

Second Regular Session of the 5th Year of Reiwa
“Self-Defense Forces Disaster Dispatch ~Hino City’s Preparedness~”

In Hino City as well, it is necessary to further enhance coordination with the Self-Defense Forces and fire departments that actually conduct rescue operations.

What does this enhanced coordination entail?

I believe it means that the 2nd Company of the 1st Engineer Battalion, stationed at the Asaka Garrison of the Ground Self-Defense Force, should lead a collaborative effort among Hino City, Hachioji City, and Machida City. This collaboration should involve studying the countermeasures each city has implemented for hazardous areas, preparing for unforeseen events, and conducting workshops that include case studies from actual disasters.

Why? Because the combined population of Hino City, Hachioji City, and Machida City is 1.19 million citizens. In contrast, the total personnel of the 2nd Company, 1st Engineer Battalion, based at the Asaka Garrison and involved in initial response activities, is approximately 60 personnel.

Moreover, depending on the situation at the time, it is not guaranteed that all 60 personnel will be available.

I understand that Hino City works closely with the fire department, volunteer fire corps, and police on a daily basis to ensure the safety and security of the community.

However, just as we ask citizens to practice self-help, mutual aid, and public assistance, before requesting support from the Self-Defense Forces when needed nationally, the administration must also strengthen its own systems to protect the city with its own hands. This requires cooperation with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s fire department (police) and the Self-Defense Forces.

Throughout my first four-year term, I have steadfastly upheld this conviction.

In the upcoming election, I am championing the theme of “politics that protects those who protect lives.” One aspect of this is establishing a support system that enables rescue workers to operate smoothly when disasters strike.

Given my daily respect and admiration for the Self-Defense Forces and their activities, some may perceive this as a political theme focused solely on the SDF.

However, that is not the case.

“Politics that protects those who protect lives” encompasses various professions. I believe that by providing appropriate support to all those involved in welfare, including Hino City employees as part of the administration, we can build a robust administrative foundation.

To protect those who safeguard citizens’ lives and livelihoods, and to ensure Hino City becomes a place where everyone can live safely and securely, I will advance our steps toward the future. I will appeal to Mayor Koga and all relevant departments not with emotion, but with reason, to ensure this vision is reliably realized.

Entrust me with building a Hino that harmonizes happiness.