[Preparing for Water Outages] Overcoming Toilet Issues During Disasters with "Emergency Toilets + Life Hacks." Realistic Measures You Need to Know Right Now
The truly terrifying "toilet reality" after a major earthquake
Do you ever feel anxious after watching recent earthquake or disaster news, wondering, "What are evacuation centers really like?"
Even if you have food and water stored, one thing that is actually easy to overlook is the "toilet issue."
When a major earthquake occurs and lifelines are cut, the first thing to stop is the water supply (i.e., flush toilets). Furthermore, even if electricity is restored, there is a possibility that pipes are damaged, so flushing water carelessly carries the risk of
secondary damage such as sewage backflow.
As a result, during a disaster, the state of "not being able to use your home toilet" can last for several days to several weeks. And in fact, even in past large-scale disasters, many people suffered from poor health because they refrained from drinking water or eating to avoid having to use the toilet.
It is not just food that is necessary to protect your life.
Making realistic preparations for "toilet needs" is the most effective measure.
Item 1: "Emergency toilets with coagulant" that you absolutely must prepare
To conclude, the most reliable and space-efficient option is "portable/emergency toilets that come as a set with a coagulant and waste bag (dedicated bag)."
A common misconception is that "you can just substitute with cardboard or newspaper."
But in reality, human waste has more moisture and odor than you might imagine, and the burden on hygiene and mental health is significant.
Without a dedicated coagulant, you will reach your limit very quickly.
The mechanism of emergency toilets for disasters is simple.
Place the dedicated bag over the Western-style toilet bowl (or a frame that can be set on the bowl), and add the coagulant after using it. It is designed to turn the moisture into a gel and suppress odors.
So, how much should you prepare?
The criteria for judgment is simple, and you can use the following way of thinking.
Number of uses per person per day (estimate): about 5 times
At least 3 days' worth (1 week's worth if possible)
Number of family members x number of days needed x 5 uses
You don't need to make it perfect from the start.
First, securing them by the box with the premise of "using them" will prevent hesitation when the time comes.
If you are going to prepare, "set types" that are easy to choose are reassuring. Let's look at some candidates while you have the chance.
Knowing this makes a huge difference! "Toilet life hacks" useful during water outages
Next, here are life hacks that are not just about items, but are "helpful just by knowing them."
During a disaster, you will feel flustered. That is precisely why those who have the procedures in their heads are strong.
Life Hack 1: When using double bags, put "absorbent material" in between
When using two trash bags, if you tear up newspaper or similar material and lay it in between, it will suppress the spread of moisture and make it easier to manage hygienically.
It is reassuring to remember this not so much to save on coagulant, but as a "trick to prevent leaks."
Life Hack 2: Think of deodorizing as "supplementary"
For times when you might run out of dedicated coagulant or need more, keeping these ideas in mind will prevent panic.
For example, things like pet deodorizers or used coffee grounds, items intended to suppress odors can be considered as a supplement.
*However, these are only supplements. The golden rule is to always have a set of "coagulant + bags" on hand.
Life Hack 3: Do not flush leftover bath water or rainwater "as is"
This is important.
Because there is a possibility that the pipes are damaged, flushing it directly into the toilet bowl is generally a no-go.
Even if you absolutely must use it, do not pour it into the pipes immediately;
make a careful judgment, such as using a bucket to "aim carefully into the toilet bowl."
The basic rule is "prioritize using portable toilets". It is safest not to deviate from that.
Just like water and food, preparing for toilet needs provides peace of mind
Having read this far, some of you might be thinking, "I get it, but where should I actually start?"
When it comes to disaster prevention, it is easy to focus on
delicious emergency food
or sophisticated disaster prevention gadgets.
But in reality, what helps you rebuild your life is "being able to properly dispose of waste."
This is directly linked not only to your physical health but also to your mental well-being.
Therefore, this question is enough to start with.
"If the water stopped tomorrow—what would happen to my home's toilet?"
If the answer is "I might be in trouble," then what you need to do now is simple.
Just place one box of portable toilet sets in a known location in your home (like a corner of the closet). To avoid panicking when you need them, why not look at the options and decide on your "home preparation" now?
Just having reliable preparations will completely change your peace of mind when the next big earthquake hits.
Let's gradually hook realistic disaster prevention wisdom into our daily lives.
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Sora | Living Disaster Prevention Hook
Driven by anxiety about disasters that could happen at any time, I research and share truly useful disaster prevention gadgets and practical preparations. For those who are unsure where to start, I provide wisdom for peace of mind that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Why not start small preparations with me? Following and liking my posts encourages me!