Disaster preparedness saves lives - World Bank

The World Bank says Japan's systematic and careful investments in seismic safety and tsunami preparedness over several decades saved countless lives during the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, as reported by Voxy, "Japan's example shows country's should invest in preparedness."

"Following Japan's example, countries around the world need to take steps in reducing risk, by focusing on risk information, financing frameworks, urban planning, early warning systems, and involving communities who are not mere victims of disasters but the first responders during an emergency and critical partners in reconstruction," said the World Bank's Sector Director for Sustainable Development in East Asia and Pacific, John Roome.