On November 9th, (Sat.), Hiroshima University held firefighting practice at the International House. After the fire-alarm went off, the international student who represented the residents reported the fire to the fire department. The residents evacuated their rooms, and after their names were called out, they were taught from the staff of the International Exchange Group what to do in case of fire, how to call the fire department, how to handle a fire extinguisher and how to protect themselves in the event of an earthquake. Afterward, the students conducted a firefighting training using the fire extinguisher.



Firstly, the international students learned the key phrase “PASS” for using a fire extinguisher. Specifically, it is important to first shout “Fire!” to alert others, pull the pin of the fire extinguisher (Pull), aim it at the fire (Aim), then squeeze the handle (Squeeze) and blast with a sweeping action (Sweep). As there were only few residents who had ever experienced an earthquake, and in response to the Great East Japan Earthquake, the focus was not only on fire-fighting but also on protecting themselves in the event of an earthquake.



Sometimes, foreign countries have different methods than Japan for coping with disasters such as fire or earthquakes. Therefore, the International House conducts firefighting practice every April and October when new residents move in so that immediate action can be taken when a disaster occurs.



The International House offers housing to foreign exchange students and foreign researchers. The accommodation includes single, couple and family rooms. Currently, there are residents from 23 different countries and regions.

Residents practicing firefighting

Students listening to the explanation

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Student Services Group,

Education and International Office,

Hiroshima University

TEL: 082-424-6181

E-mail: kokusai-ryugaku(AT)office.hiroshima-u.ac.jp

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