Shin-Nihon Chemical Launches National 'Co-Creating Disaster Prevention Heli-Sign Project'

As preparation for severe weather disasters and large-scale earthquakes becomes urgent, increasing the 'reception capacity'—the ability to accept support—of schools designated as disaster evacuation centers has become a common challenge for municipalities.

Shin-Nihon Chemical (headquartered in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture), a pioneer in color and light, is launching a full-scale nationwide 'Co-Creating Disaster Prevention Heli-Sign Project' for municipalities and educational institutions, where students themselves paint air-to-ground marks (heli-signs) for rescue helicopters on their school rooftops.

■ Heli-signs: A 'Destination' and a 'Guide' in the Sky
Beyond simple facility name confirmation, heli-signs function as essential aerial landmarks. For wide-area support helicopters unfamiliar with the local terrain, these signs serve as crucial navigation aids, forming an aviation network that enables precise navigation across disaster zones. They also ensure that vital community disaster prevention hubs (like schools) are clearly visible from above, securing more efficient supply transport and rescue operations.

■ The Necessity of Heli-signs from Pilots' Perspectives
Pilots emphasize the importance of heli-signs in the harsh environment of aerial navigation, stating, 'We want as many buildings as possible marked. It allows us to grasp our location and targets more accurately and quickly.'

■ Breaking Through Budget Constraints with the Power of Education
This project solves the issue of budget securing by utilizing school rooftops as sites for disaster prevention education. Construction costs are reduced as students, staff, and local residents lead the painting process, effectively utilizing existing facilities without the need for structural reinforcement.

■ Full Support for First-time Painters
The company provides optimal painting specifications based on professional assessment of rooftop materials and offers technical guidance on paint handling and protective procedures to ensure successful construction.

■ A Lifelong Social Contribution Captured on Google Earth™
Through activities like graduation projects, creative arts activities, and PTA workshops, the project promotes Disaster Education (Goal 4) and partnerships with local governments (Goal 17), contributing to sustainable cities and communities (Goal 11).

■ Balancing 'Water-based' Safety with 'Professional' High Performance
The project utilizes 'Lamino Heli-Sign Aqua,' a low-VOC water-based paint. It combines high visibility and durability with the convenience of cleaning tools with tap water, making it safe and easy for students to handle.