On May 17, Fukuoka City unveiled new smartphone-compatible disaster prevention maps. Developed in conjunction with local software company Sefuri, Inc., the maps contain information pertinent in the event of a disaster—such as the locations of evacuation centers, major hospitals, police and fire stations. By downloading Sefuri’s free map app, Yamap, users can check this information even if they have no cell reception. (The app uses the phone’s GPS signal.) Development of the app cost ¥2 million and the mayor said he hopes a wide range of people, including visiting tourists and businesspersons, will take advantage of the new service. Source: City Hall homepage, 5/17
