A call for schools to serve as “local information bases” and “energy bases” in times of emergency

　In the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the role played by schools, which are designated as evacuation centers, appears to have been limited to providing “space” (sports halls, etc.) and “stores”.
　However, it is precisely in times of emergency that there is a need for evacuation centers to have functions that allow the collection and dissemination of accurate local information, and for systems that will allow people in evacuation centers and the surrounding area to be provided with food and drink that approximates their normal everyday diet.
　This report examines the need for local elementary and junior high schools to serve as information bases and energy bases in times of emergency, and makes practical suggestions as to how schools could be prepared to serve as such bases.