3.15.11 – (LAA) – Japan Earthquake

Japan Update
Tuesday March 15, 2011

As Japan continues to recover from the devastating aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami, flights to and from the country have returned to regularly scheduled operation. APFA is monitoring the situation closely, as it remains extremely fluid, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure Flight Attendants’ safety and security. Meetings and discussions are taking place on a daily basis. We will inform you should operations deviate from their current status.

Chicago Flight Service, IOR Purser Kevin Falco and APFA’s EAP Representative Patty French have collaborated to develop suggestions to assist in ensuring a comfortable and safe layover.

1. Maintain a “GO BAG” for immediate evacuation of the hotel facility which contains ID’s, PASSPORT, Wallet, Credit Cards, CASH in small bills, Medications and cell phone along with your n/s with contact phone numbers.
2. A standard SHOE BAG should be sufficient. Additional items to be considered would be 2 liters of water, 2-4 dehydrated noodle cups, and candy. Also remember your flashlight.
3. Seasonal jacket, clothing and shoes should be ready to grab on the way out for later dressing.
4. A specific location should be decided upon by Captain and Purser for all crew-members to assemble after evacuating the hotel. The final default location would be the airport. This should be accomplished on the bus ride to the hotel.
5. It is critical to be able to exit by stairs at a moment’s notice. Proper preparation will not waste precious seconds of life.
6. Assign buddies with your fellow crew-members and check in on one another.
7. Limit your time watching the news on TV. While it is good to stay informed, continuous exposure to the traumatic pictures on the news will increase your level of stress.
8. Practice good self-care while on your layover such as:

• Structure your time
• Maintain a normal schedule
• Exercise
• Eat well-balanced and regular meals
• Drink plenty of water
• Spend time with other crew members you enjoy being with
• Get plenty of rest
• Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption
• Stay informed
• Know your own stress reactions and ask for help
• Support your fellow crew-members who may have a difficult time coping

Flight Service Managers are stationed at both Haneda and Narita layover hotels should you need assistance.

Should you have any questions, please contact your Flight Service Manager, local APFA Representatives, APFA Safety and Security Department or APFA Health Department. In addition, websites for both the World Health Organization and the Nuclear Energy Institute have valuable up to date information.