Taipei City Fire Department Disaster Prevention Science Education Center Introduction
In light of the Great Hanshin Earthquake that struck Japan on January 17, 1995, with a magnitude of 7.2, resulting in 6,430 deaths and over 40,000 injuries, along with over 510,000 houses completely or partially destroyed, and total losses estimated at around 10 trillion yen, it stands as Japan's second-largest natural disaster since World War II, following the Ise Bay Typhoon. Therefore, on July 10 of the same year (84th year of the Republic), the Taipei City Fire Department was restructured to enhance disaster prevention education for citizens, allowing them to experience disasters firsthand and thereby understand the importance of disaster prevention. The planning included the establishment of Taiwan's first Disaster Prevention Science Education Center. To help citizens understand the history and characteristics of various disasters, the Taipei City Fire Department’s Disaster Prevention Science Education employs computers, electronics, and machinery to simulate various disaster scenarios, enabling citizens to engage in hands-on experiences. This integration of knowledge on fire prevention, flood control, earthquake response, and typhoon evacuation naturally intertwines with daily life through a fun and educational approach, enhancing the public’s ability to respond to disasters. It is hoped that after the visit and experience, the acquired knowledge and skills in disaster prevention can be shared with family and friends, allowing everyone to stay insulated from disasters and threats.
