In recent years, disasters such as earthquakes and heavy rains have occurred all over Japan. There is no telling when a disaster might strike. In a survey conducted after the Noto Peninsula earthquake, the most common issue faced immediately after evacuation began was "toilets" (69.8%). It is easy to imagine that the situation would have been even more difficult for those who use wheelchairs.
Especially for those who use wheelchairs and live alone, in the event of a disaster,it can be difficult to receive support or assistance, and there may not be anyone nearby. Relying solely on the toilets at evacuation centers raises hygiene concerns and the possibility that they may be crowded and unavailable when needed. Additionally, trying to reduce the number of trips to the toilet by limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of illness.
When faced with the need to live in evacuation, wouldn’t it be much easier if you could use the toilet in your own home? This article clearly summarizes how to use portable toilets that can be used during home evacuation, how to prepare for them, and tips that can be implemented starting today.
Preparation 1: How to Use a Portable Toilet and How Much to Prepare
Portable toilets can now be purchased at home improvement stores and other places. However, it would be problematic if you couldn't use it when the time comes. Here, we will discusshow to use it andhow many to stock.
Installation Steps
One of the majorbenefits of home evacuation is that you can use the toilet comfortably in a familiar space while remaining in your wheelchair, right? First, let’s check the “installation steps for portable toilets” that you can set up by yourself.
“Even when there is no running water or drainage, you can still utilize the toilet space and the toilet bowl. A safe toilet space is extremely important. A portable toilet is essential for effectively using your home toilet.”
：『携帯トイレは便器に取り付ける袋式のトイレで、吸収シートや凝固剤を入れて、うんちとおしっこを安定化させるのが目的です。携帯トイレをいきなり便器に取り介かると、便器の底に溜まっている水が付いてしまい。便器の底に溜まっといる水が付いてしまい。まずは便座を上げて、便器そのものにポリ袋を被せ、便座を下ろしてから携帯トイレを取り介かるとよいです。』
引用元：How to Use a Portable Toilet | TOILET MAGAZINE（トイレマガジン）
The reference also includes diagrams, so please check it out.
Things Wheelchair Users Can Do
Here are a few tips that can make life easier for wheelchair users during evacuation, so please consider them.
For emergencies,try to keep the pathway to the toilet clear of obstacles. Especially in narrow areas like hallways, having too many objects can lead to falls or breakages, creating obstacles that hinder wheelchair movement.
In case of a power outage, it will be dark and visibility will be poor after sunset, sousing a headlamp allows you to keep both hands free. Additionally, if you regularly usemotion-sensor lights (battery-operated or rechargeable), they will light up as you approach, so feel free to use them according to your preference.
If you cannot attach the plastic bag to the toilet when using the portable toilet,it is recommended to keep a plastic bag filled with water in the toilet beforehand. Even if there is no running water, placing a water-filled plastic bag over the seal (the water that accumulates in the toilet bowl) can create a seal, allowing you to attach the portable toilet without getting it wet. Additionally, when changing the portable toilet, it will be easier because it will not come into contact with the seal. The seal also prevents foul odors and harmful gas backflow, as well as insect intrusion, so it is best not to remove it.
From a hygiene perspective, it is also reassuring to have gloves prepared to avoid accidentally getting your hands dirty when disposing of used portable toilets.
What You Need Beyond a Portable Toilet
A portable toilet alone may not suffice in an emergency.
In situations where there is no running water due to a water outage,having wet wipes or toilet wipes can help maintain hygiene. Additionally, havinga trash bag (preferably odor-proof) for used portable toilets and atrash bin to store them can help keep things organized.
Always keep a good supply of toilet paper on hand.
By preparing the necessary items and deciding in advance where to keep them, you can use them without panic during emergencies such as disasters.
How Many to Prepare
If you know how many times you typically go to the toilet in a day, it is reassuring to have that number multiplied by 7 (for a week). For example, if someone goes 5 times a day, they should prepare 5 (times per day) × 7 (days) = 35 times worth. However,it is wise to keep a little extra in case of stress-related health issues due to changes in the environment..
Preparation 2: Practice Going Alone
Some disaster supplies are designed to be used while standing. By trying out a portable toilet at home, you can identify any inconveniences and take measures accordingly.
For example, “the procedure and time required for transfer” cannot be understood without actually trying it. Information such as “where lighting would be convenient” can only be obtained through testing. Knowing how far you can go alone in a situation where there is no one to rely on in an emergency is important. It is recommended to practice alone during normal times.
The Harsh Reality of Toilets for Wheelchair Users in Evacuation Centers
In reality, there have been cases where wheelchair users faced inconveniences during evacuation. For instance, in a survey conducted after the Noto Peninsula earthquake,many of the temporary toilets at evacuation centers were traditional Japanese-style, and even if they were Western-style, there were reports of cramped spaces. There were also complaints about the limited number of stalls, stating they were “far away and cramped.”
Additionally, various voices were raised on-site. For those who want to know more, please refer to the articles below.
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