National AJET Statement regarding Japan earthquake/tsunami
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National AJET Statement regarding Japan earthquake/tsunami
March 12, 2011
On March 11, 2011 a large earthquake of a magnitude of 8.8 hit northern Japan, causing huge fires, landslides, radiation leaks, and widespread infrastructure damage as well as generating tsunamis in several regions. A broad area has been affected by these disasters, and problems vary from region to region. For up-to-date information, check news sources that are local to the region in which your family member or friend resides.
National AJET, as a representative body of JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme) participants in Japan, would like to provide possible avenues for communication or relief efforts to people who are concerned across the globe, as well as in Japan.
It is important to stay calm, not panic and be mindful that due to power outages and lack of telecommunications, it may take time to get through to anyone affected.
If you are searching for family or friends in the affected areas, first check this list of American and Canadian JET participants whose safety has been confirmed.
To reach JETs directly, Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites are proving to be the most effective means of communication as phone lines are busy or down. Also, if someone you know does not have access to communication systems, please communicate on their behalf.
For more information please check out the Google Crisis Response Links. This information includes a people finder link, infrastructural information, and the latest news in English.
http://www.google.com/crisisresponse/japanquake2011.html
If you still can’t get in touch with your loved one, please try contacting your embassy next. Keep in mind that all embassies are receiving a high volume of calls, so it may take time to reach somebody who can assist you.
Australia
Canada
http://www.international.gc.ca/humanitarian–humanitaire/japan_earthquake_japon_seisme.aspx?lang=eng
Ireland
http://www.dfa.ie/home/index.aspx?id=33442
New Zealand
http://www.nzembassy.com/japan
Singapore
South Africa
United Kingdom
http://ukinjapan.fco.gov.uk/en/news/?view=News&id=564487882
USA
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_5378.html
If none of the groups above are able to assist you, please contact the Council for Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR) at: 03 (5213) 1729, as they are currently confirming the safety and whereabouts of JET participants in the affected areas.
National AJET will continue to provide JET participants with the most recent and up-to-date information that is available. All of our thoughts and prayers are with our fellow JET participants and everyone that has been affected by this disaster.
Please access http://www.ajet.net for our most recent information, including donation and relief efforts.
Contact: Caroline Ideus, National AJET chair, chair@ajet.net
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