a wake-up call
Japan tunnel disaster a wake-up call for other countries
A deadly tunnel collapse in Japan should serve as a wake-up call to developed nations whose aging infrastructure is in dire need of updating, experts say.
Trillions of dollars need to be spent across the globe just to stand still they warn, adding current fiscal belt tightening is pushing vital repairs dangerously far down the list.
“Maintenance work is often neglected because you cannot easily see the urgent need for it,” said Toshihiro Nagahama, chief economist at Dai-Ichi Life Research Institute.
今、出先のホテルでウェイクアップ・コールを頼む人は多くはないと思いますが、比喩的に使われる場合には「警戒を促すために鳴らす鐘。警鐘。」という意味になります。まさに「おめざ」です。念のためです。（EnDough）
