Japan Emergency SOS: Essential Phone Numbers & Contacts for Foreigners
“What are the emergency numbers in Japan?” “If something unexpected happens, who should I call for help?”
As a foreigner living in or traveling to Japan, these questions might often cross your mind. Navigating a new country comes with excitement, but also the need to be prepared, especially in case of emergencies.
In this article, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive and easy-to-understand guide to essential emergency phone numbers and contacts in Japan. This guide is specifically tailored to meet the needs of foreigners like yourself.
We will carefully cover crucial contact information for various emergency situations. This includes who to call for police assistance, in case of a fire, when you need an ambulance, for urgent medical help, and during natural disasters. Our goal is to ensure that you feel confident and prepared, knowing exactly who to reach out to and how to seek help should you ever need it in Japan.
Essential Emergency Numbers in Japan for Foreigners
Japan, while being a safe and welcoming country, still requires you to be aware of essential emergency numbers to ensure your safety and peace of mind during your stay. For foreigners, knowing these numbers and how to use them is crucial in case of unexpected situations. This section will guide you through the primary emergency numbers and provide a basic understanding of the emergency system in Japan.
The Three Digit Numbers You Need to Know
In Japan, like many countries around the world, emergency services can be reached using simple, three-digit numbers. These numbers are easy to remember and dial in stressful situations. The two most important numbers to memorize are 110 and 119.
110: Calling the Police in Japan
The number 110 is the emergency number to contact the police in Japan. Dial 110 when you need police assistance for any incident or accident that requires police intervention. While 119 is for life-threatening medical or fire emergencies, 110 is also appropriate even if there might be a potential risk to life, provided the primary need is police action. Examples of when to call 110 include:
- Theft or robbery: If you have been a victim of theft or robbery, requiring police investigation and reporting.
- Traffic accidents: In case of any traffic accident, regardless of injury severity, as police are needed for traffic control, accident investigation, and documentation.
- Criminal incidents or suspicious activity: To report any crime, incident, or suspicious behavior that necessitates police response and investigation.
- Lost and found items: To report lost items or to turn in found property to the police.
- General police assistance: For any situation that requires police involvement related to an incident or accident, even if the situation’s severity is initially unclear.
When you dial 110, you will be connected to the police emergency dispatch center. Be prepared to calmly and clearly explain the situation, your location, and the type of police assistance needed. The dispatch operator will assess the situation and coordinate with other emergency services if necessary.
119: Calling Fire and Ambulance in Japan
The emergency number 119 is used to request both fire and ambulance services in Japan. Dial 119 in situations that are life-threatening and require immediate medical or fire service assistance. Examples of when to call 119 include:
- Fires: In case of any fire, regardless of size.
- Medical emergencies: For serious injuries, sudden illness, or any medical situation requiring immediate ambulance transport to a hospital.
- Traffic accidents with injuries: If a traffic accident involves serious injuries.
- Any situation requiring immediate medical assistance: This includes but is not limited to heart attacks, strokes, severe bleeding, and difficulty breathing.
When you call 119, you will be connected to the fire and ambulance dispatch center. You will be asked whether you need fire (火事ですか？ – Kaji desu ka?) or ambulance (救急車ですか？ – Kyukyusha desu ka?). Clearly state your need and provide accurate information about the location and the emergency.
Understanding Japan’s Emergency Number System
It’s also helpful to understand some key aspects of the emergency number system in Japan.
Free Emergency Calls
Both 110 and 119 are free of charge to call from any phone, including mobile phones, landlines, and public phones. You do not need a phone card or coins to use public phones for emergency calls.
Available 24/7
Emergency services in Japan are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter what time of day or night, or what day of the week, you can rely on these services to be available in case of an emergency.
How to Call Emergency Services in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing the emergency numbers is just the first step. Understanding how to actually make a call in an emergency situation in Japan is equally important. This section provides a step-by-step guide on how to call emergency services from different types of phones and what to expect when you make the call.
Calling from a Mobile Phone
Mobile phones are the most common way to make emergency calls in Japan. Here’s how to do it:
Unlocking Your Phone
In an emergency, the first thing you need to do is unlock your phone. Most smartphones require a swipe, passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition to unlock. Make sure you can quickly unlock your phone, or if possible, set up emergency SOS features on your phone that allow dialing emergency numbers without fully unlocking it. Familiarize yourself with your phone’s emergency call function beforehand.
Dialing the Emergency Number
Once your phone is unlocked, you can dial the emergency number.
- For police, dial 110.
- For fire or ambulance, dial 119.
After dialing, press the call button. Your phone will connect you to the respective emergency dispatch center. Wait for the operator to answer and do not hang up.
Calling from a Landline or Public Phone
While mobile phones are prevalent, knowing how to use landlines (固定電話 – kotei denwa) or public phones (公衆電話 – koshu denwa) for emergencies is still useful, especially if your mobile phone is out of battery or unavailable.
No Coins Needed for Emergency Calls
One of the most important things to remember is that you do not need coins or a phone card to make emergency calls from public phones in Japan. In case of an emergency, you can use any public phone, even if it says “専用 – Senyo” (meaning “Exclusive use”, often for phone cards).
Locations of Public Phones
Public phones, though less common than in the past, can still be found in various locations, such as:
- Train stations (駅 – eki): Often located near ticket gates or information counters.
- Airports (空港 – kūkō): Usually in arrival and departure lobbies.
- Hotels (ホテル – hoteru): In hotel lobbies or sometimes in rooms.
- Hospitals (病院 – byōin): In waiting areas or near entrances.
- Some public areas: Though less frequent, you might still find them on streets, especially in older neighborhoods or near public facilities.
To make an emergency call from a public phone:
- Pick up the receiver.
- Press the emergency call button (緊急通報ボタン – kinkyu tsuho botan). This button is usually red and clearly marked. On some newer public phones, you might not need to press a button; simply dialing 110 or 119 after lifting the receiver may work.
- Dial 110 or 119.
What to Say When You Call: Communicating Effectively
Communicating effectively during an emergency call is crucial. Here are some tips to help you convey necessary information clearly, even if you are feeling stressed.
Speak Clearly and Slowly
When you are connected to the emergency operator, speak clearly and slowly. Even if you are flustered, try to remain calm and articulate your words. This helps the operator understand you correctly, especially if there is a language barrier.
Key Information to Provide: Location, Situation, and Assistance Needed
Be ready to provide the following key information:
- Your location: This is the most critical piece of information. Provide the exact address if you know it. If you don’t know the address, describe your location as precisely as possible using landmarks, nearby buildings, station names, or even using your phone’s GPS to get location information. For example, “I am near Tokyo Station (東京駅 – Tōkyō Eki), in front of the Marunouchi Building (丸の内ビル – Marunouchi Biru).”
- The nature of the emergency: Clearly explain what happened. Are you reporting a fire, a medical emergency, a crime, or an accident? Be concise but informative. For example, “There is a fire in a building” or “Someone is injured and needs an ambulance.”
- Assistance needed: Specify what kind of help you need. “I need police assistance,” “I need an ambulance,” or “I need the fire department.”
- Your name and phone number: Provide your name and the phone number you are calling from. This is important in case the operator needs to call you back for more information.
- Number of injured people (if applicable): If it’s a medical emergency or accident, if possible, tell the operator how many people are injured.
- Stay on the line: Do not hang up until the operator tells you to. They might need to ask you further questions or provide instructions.
“How to Call Emergency Japan” – Addressing Language Barriers
Language barriers can be a significant concern for foreigners in Japan during emergencies. Here are some ways to address potential language difficulties:
Using Translation Apps
In non-critical situations while waiting for help to arrive, or if you need to communicate details but are struggling with Japanese, translation apps on your smartphone can be useful. Apps like Google Translate or Microsoft Translator can help you translate basic phrases in real-time. You can prepare some basic emergency phrases in Japanese beforehand and save them in your app for quick access.
Emergency Translator Japan Services
For more serious situations where clear and accurate communication is vital, consider utilizing professional interpreter services. While not always instantly available on the 110 or 119 lines directly, police and fire/ambulance dispatch centers in major cities often have access to interpretation services to assist with foreign language speakers.
- Request an interpreter: When you call, if you are struggling to communicate in Japanese, clearly state “Interpreter please (通訳をお願いします – Tsūyaku wo onegai shimasu)”. The dispatch center may connect you to an interpreter or have a three-way call.
A three-way call is like a conference call where you, the emergency operator, and a translator are all on the line together. This way, the translator can help you and the operator understand each other in real-time. - Pre-registered interpretation services: Some municipalities or organizations offer pre-registration services for foreigners, allowing you to access interpretation services more smoothly in emergencies. Check with your local municipal office (市役所 – shiyakusho) or foreigner support centers for available services in your area.
By understanding these steps and preparing for potential language barriers, you can confidently call emergency services in Japan when needed.
Key Emergency Contacts for Foreigners in Japan
Beyond the essential 110 and 119 numbers, knowing specific contact points for different types of emergencies can be incredibly helpful. This section details key emergency contacts in Japan, categorized by the type of assistance you might need. Having these contacts readily available can save valuable time and reduce stress during critical situations.
Police Contacts – “Japan Police Emergency Number”
While 110 is the primary number for police emergencies, understanding when to use it and knowing about other police contact options can be beneficial.
When to Call 110: Situations Requiring Police Assistance
110 is the appropriate number to call whenever you require police assistance for an incident or accident. Use 110 for situations such as:
- General police matters: Seeking police assistance or reporting any incident or accident where police involvement is necessary.
- Criminal incidents: Reporting crimes like theft, robbery, fraud, assault, or domestic disputes.
- Traffic accidents: All traffic accidents, regardless of the extent of injuries, as police are required for investigation, traffic management, and documentation.
- Public disturbances: Addressing noise complaints, public intoxication, or other disturbances needing police intervention to restore order.
- Lost and found property: Reporting lost items or handing in found items to the police.
Local Police Stations
Koban (交番), or local police boxes, are a distinctive feature of the Japanese community. They are small police stations located in neighborhoods throughout Japan. Koban are staffed by police officers and serve as a local point of contact for the community. While Koban are not for reporting active emergencies requiring immediate dispatch, they are incredibly useful for:
- Reporting minor incidents: Reporting petty theft, lost items, or minor disputes that do not require immediate emergency response.
- Seeking directions or local information: Police officers at Koban often have excellent local knowledge and can provide directions, information about the neighborhood, and assistance with local inquiries.
- Community safety: Koban officers conduct patrols, provide crime prevention advice, and generally enhance community safety.
- Initial point of contact: If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency or not, visiting a Koban can be a good first step to get advice and assistance.
You can find Koban easily in most neighborhoods, often located near train stations, shopping streets, or residential areas. They are usually marked with a blue light and the police crest (警察の紋章).
Prefectural Police Headquarters
For more serious non-emergency matters or for administrative purposes, you might need to contact the Prefectural Police Headquarters (警察本部 – Keisatsu Honbu). Each prefecture in Japan has its own police headquarters. Contacting the Prefectural Police Headquarters might be necessary for:
- Filing formal complaints: If you have a complaint about police conduct or need to file a formal report for a non-emergency crime.
- Obtaining permits or licenses: Certain permits or licenses, depending on your activity, might require interaction with the Prefectural Police Headquarters.
- Seeking information on police procedures: For detailed inquiries about legal procedures or police-related information.
You can find contact information for each Prefectural Police Headquarters on the National Police Agency (警察庁 – Keisatsu-chō) website or by doing a web search for “[Prefecture name] Police Headquarters contact”. However, for most immediate needs, 110 or your local Koban are the primary points of contact.
Fire and Ambulance – “Japan Ambulance Number”
For situations involving fire or medical emergencies, 119 is the number to call. Understanding the scope of services provided through 119 is vital.
When to Call 119: Fire, Medical Emergencies
Dial 119 immediately for situations that are life-threatening and require urgent fire or medical services. This includes:
- Fires (火災 – kasai): Any fire, regardless of size, including building fires, brush fires, or even small kitchen fires that are out of control.
- Serious medical emergencies: Situations such as:
- Heart attack (心臓発作 – shinzō hossa)
- Stroke (脳卒中 – nōsotchū)
- Severe allergic reactions (重度のアレルギー反応 – jūdo no arerugī hannō)
- Serious injuries from accidents (重傷 – jūshō)
- Difficulty breathing (呼吸困難 – kokyū konnan)
- Unconsciousness (意識不明 – ishiki fumei)
- Heavy bleeding (大量出血 – tairyō shukketsu)
- Sudden, severe pain (突然の激しい痛み – totsuzen no hageshii itami)
- Traffic accidents with injuries: Accidents where people are injured and require medical attention.
When you call 119, you will be asked if you need fire service (消防 – shōbō) or ambulance service (救急 – kyūkyū). Clearly state your need.
Ambulance Services and Medical Assistance
Japan’s ambulance service is highly efficient and provides pre-hospital medical care. Here are important points about ambulance services in Japan:
- Free of charge: Ambulance transport and emergency medical care provided by ambulance paramedics are free in Japan. However, you will be responsible for medical costs once you are admitted to a hospital.
- Highly trained paramedics (救急救命士 – kyūkyū kyūmeishi): Japanese ambulance paramedics are highly trained and equipped to provide advanced life support at the scene and during transport.
- Rapid response: Ambulances in urban areas typically arrive very quickly. However, response times can vary depending on location and traffic conditions.
- Transport to appropriate hospital: The ambulance crew will assess your condition and transport you to the most appropriate hospital capable of handling your emergency. You generally cannot choose which hospital you are taken to in a critical emergency, as the priority is to get you to the nearest suitable medical facility as quickly as possible.
#7119 Emergency Consultation Center: In some areas of Japan, for medical situations where you are unsure whether to call an ambulance (119), you can contact the #7119 Emergency Consultation Center . By dialing #7119 (from a phone within Japan), you can speak with medical professionals who will assess your condition and advise you on the best course of action. They can help you determine if you need an ambulance, should see a doctor, or can treat the situation at home. #7119 is not a substitute for 119 in genuine emergencies, but rather a resource for guidance in non-life-threatening situations. Please note that #7119 is not available in all areas of Japan, so check if it is active in your location beforehand.
Medical Emergencies and Hospitals – “Hospitals in Japan”
Beyond ambulance services, knowing how to find hospitals and access medical care is essential for foreigners in Japan.
Finding Hospitals and Clinics
Finding a hospital or clinic in Japan is generally straightforward. Here are several reliable methods:
- Online Search: The quickest way to find medical facilities is by using online search engines like Google or Yahoo! Japan. Simply search for “[your location] hospital” or “[your location] clinic.” For specific language needs, add keywords such as “[language] speaking doctor” (e.g., “Tokyo English speaking doctor”).
- Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Website: The JNTO Website provides a dedicated section on their website with resources to help international visitors find medical support. They offer a 24-hour Japan Visitor Hotline for emergencies, and information to guide you in case of illness or injury. While they may not have a direct search function for medical institutions on their site, they provide valuable guidance and links to helpful resources.
- Your Embassy or Consulate: Your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan is a valuable resource. They often maintain lists of recommended hospitals and clinics in their area. You can typically find their contact information and websites through your government’s foreign affairs department website, or by searching online for “[Your Country] Embassy Japan”.
- Hotel or Accommodation Staff: Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from the staff at your hotel or accommodation. They are usually knowledgeable about local medical facilities and can provide directions or contact information.
- Japan Hospital Search Website: Japan Hospital Search (ジャパンインターナショナルホスピタルズ) is a multilingual website operated by Medical Excellence JAPAN (MEJ) that is specifically designed to help international patients find hospitals and clinics in Japan. It allows you to search for hospitals by specialty, location, and language support.
After-Hours and Emergency Medical Care
Medical emergencies don’t always happen during regular business hours. Japan has systems in place for after-hours and emergency medical care.
- Emergency rooms (救命救急センター – kyūmei kyūkyū sentā): Large hospitals often have emergency rooms or emergency departments that are open 24/7. These are equipped to handle serious medical emergencies. You can find emergency rooms by searching online for “[your location] emergency hospital” or by contacting the 119 dispatch center for guidance.
- After-hours clinics (夜間診療所 – yakan shinryōsho) and holiday clinics (休日診療所 – kyūjitsu shinryōsho): Many cities have clinics that operate after regular clinic hours or on weekends and holidays. These clinics typically handle less severe emergencies and urgent care needs. Your local municipal office or city website will have information on after-hours and holiday clinics in your area.
- AMDA International Medical Information Center: The AMDA International Medical Information Center (特定非営利活動法人AMDA国際医療情報センター) provides multilingual medical information services, including guidance on finding medical care after hours.
Understanding Japanese Healthcare for Foreigners
Navigating a foreign healthcare system can be daunting. Here are some key points for foreigners in Japan:
- Health insurance (健康保険 – kenkō hoken): It is mandatory for all residents in Japan, including most foreigners staying long-term, to enroll in health insurance. This can be either National Health Insurance (国民健康保険 – Kokumin Kenkō Hoken) or Employees’ Health Insurance (被用者保険 – Hiyōsha Hoken) depending on your residency status and employment. Health insurance significantly reduces your out-of-pocket medical expenses.
- Medical costs: Medical care in Japan is generally of high quality but can be expensive without insurance. Even with insurance, you will typically pay a percentage of the medical costs at the time of service (usually 30% for most health insurance plans).
- Language assistance: Not all medical facilities have English-speaking staff. It’s advisable to look for hospitals or clinics that advertise multilingual services, especially if you are not confident in your Japanese language ability. Using online search tools and resources like Japan Hospital Search can help you find such facilities.
- Bringing necessary items to the hospital: When visiting a hospital or clinic, be sure to bring your health insurance card (健康保険証 – kenkō hoken shō), identification (身分証明書 – mibun shōmeisho) such as your residence card, passport, or My Number Card (マイナンバーカード – Mainanbā Kādo). The My Number Card is a government-issued identification card that is increasingly used for various administrative procedures, including healthcare. Also, remember to bring money to cover your portion of the medical expenses.
Want to know more about health insurance in Japan? Read the article below!
Disaster-Related Emergency Contacts – “Japan Disaster Information”
Japan is prone to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. Knowing where to get reliable disaster-related information is crucial.
Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA – 気象庁)
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA – 気象庁 – Kishō-chō) is the primary source for official weather forecasts and disaster warnings in Japan. The JMA website and app provide real-time information on:
- Earthquakes (地震 – jishin): Earthquake early warnings, seismic intensity information, and tsunami warnings.
- Typhoons (台風 – taifū): Typhoon tracks, forecasts, and warnings.
- Tsunami (津波 – tsunami): Tsunami warnings and evacuation advisories.
- Weather forecasts (天気予報 – tenki yohō): General weather forecasts, including warnings for heavy rain, snow, and other weather-related disasters.
The JMA website and app are available in English and other languages, making it accessible for foreigners. Familiarize yourself with these resources and check them regularly for updated information, especially during typhoon or earthquake seasons.
Local Municipality Disaster Information
In addition to national-level information from JMA, local municipalities (地方自治体 – chihō jichitai) provide crucial disaster-related information specific to your area.
- Municipal websites: Your local city or ward office website will have a disaster preparedness section, often with information in multiple languages. This includes evacuation maps (避難地図 – hinan chizu), information on evacuation centers (避難所 – hinanjo), and local disaster preparedness guidelines.
- Emergency broadcasts (防災無線 – bōsai musen): Many municipalities have emergency broadcast systems that announce important information during disasters through loudspeakers placed throughout the city. While broadcasts are usually in Japanese, some municipalities are starting to offer multilingual broadcasts or summaries.
- Local disaster preparedness apps: Some municipalities have developed their own disaster preparedness apps that provide localized information and alerts. Check your municipal website for information on available apps.
“Japan Disaster Information” Websites and Apps
Several websites and mobile apps provide aggregated disaster information in English and other languages for foreigners in Japan. These include:
- NHK World-Japan: NHK World-Japan (NHKワールド JAPAN), the international broadcasting service of NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation), provides up-to-date news and disaster information in English and multiple languages via its website and app. They often have live broadcasts and real-time updates during major disasters.
- Japan Safe Travel: The Japan Safe Travel (日本セーフトラベル) website and app offer comprehensive safety information for tourists and residents in Japan, including disaster alerts, emergency contacts, and safety tips.
- Safety tips apps: For push notifications on earthquakes and other emergencies, and useful safety information, consider using safety apps like the Safety Tips app provided by JNTO, and others.
By utilizing these key emergency contacts and information resources, foreigners in Japan can significantly enhance their safety and preparedness in various emergency situations.
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Dealing with Common Emergencies in Japan: A Practical Guide for Foreigners
While we hope you never encounter emergencies in Japan, being prepared for common situations can significantly ease stress and ensure your safety. This section outlines practical steps to handle some of the more frequent emergencies that foreigners might face in Japan.
Earthquakes and Tsunamis
Japan is located in a seismically active zone and experiences frequent earthquakes. Coastal areas are also at risk of tsunamis following major earthquakes. Knowing how to react during these events is crucial.
Understanding Earthquake Early Warnings
Japan has an advanced Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) system (緊急地震速報 – Kinkyu Jishin Sokuhō). This system detects the initial tremors of an earthquake and sends out warnings before strong shaking arrives. Warnings are broadcast through:
- Mobile phone alerts: Many smartphones in Japan are set up to receive EEW alerts automatically. These alerts are usually accompanied by a distinctive alarm sound and a message in Japanese and sometimes English.
- Television and radio: NHK and other broadcasters interrupt regular programming to issue EEW warnings.
- Public address systems: In some areas, particularly coastal regions or large cities, public address systems may broadcast warnings.
When you receive an EEW alert:
- Protect yourself immediately: You will have seconds to tens of seconds before strong shaking starts. The priority is to protect yourself from falling objects and injury.
- If indoors: Drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to the ground, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. If no sturdy furniture is available, crouch against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
- If outdoors: Move to an open space away from buildings, power lines, and trees. If possible, protect your head with a bag or your arms.
- If in a car: Pull over to the side of the road safely, stop, and set the parking brake. Avoid stopping under overpasses or bridges. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.
Tsunami Evacuation Procedures
If you are in a coastal area and an earthquake occurs, especially a strong one, be aware of the risk of tsunami (津波).
- Tsunami warnings: Tsunami warnings are issued by the JMA and are broadcast through the same channels as EEW alerts (mobile phones, TV, radio, public address systems). Tsunami warnings will be issued if an earthquake of magnitude 7.0 or greater occurs offshore, or even for smaller earthquakes that are assessed to pose a tsunami risk.
- Evacuate immediately: If a tsunami warning is issued for your area, evacuate to higher ground immediately. Do not wait for visual confirmation of a tsunami. Tsunamis can travel at incredible speeds and can arrive very quickly after an earthquake.
- Follow evacuation routes: Coastal areas prone to tsunamis have designated evacuation routes (避難経路 – hinan keiro) marked with signs. Familiarize yourself with these routes in your area beforehand. Evacuation maps are often available at municipal offices and on city websites.
- Evacuation centers: Evacuate to designated evacuation centers (避難所 – hinanjo), which are typically located on higher ground, such as schools, community centers, or public buildings. Information on evacuation centers in your area can be found on your municipal website or at your local city office.
What to do During and After an Earthquake
During and after an earthquake, your safety depends on informed and calm actions.
- During the shaking: Continue to drop, cover, and hold on until the shaking completely stops. Be aware of aftershocks, which are smaller earthquakes that can occur after the main quake.
- After the shaking stops:
- Check for injuries: Check yourself and those around you for injuries. Provide first aid if you are trained and able to do so.
- Evacuate if necessary: If your building is damaged or if you are in a tsunami risk zone and a tsunami warning has been issued or if instructed by local authorities, evacuate to a safe location or evacuation center.
- Check for fire and gas leaks: If you smell gas or see signs of fire, evacuate immediately and report it to 119 from a safe location.
- Listen to reliable information sources: Tune into radio, TV, or check official websites and apps for updated information and instructions from authorities. Avoid relying on social media for critical emergency information, as it can sometimes spread misinformation.
- Conserve resources: Earthquakes can disrupt utilities and supply chains. Conserve water, food, and batteries.
- Be prepared for aftershocks: Aftershocks can continue for days or even weeks after a major earthquake. Be prepared for further shaking and continue to take protective measures.
Typhoons and Floods
Japan is also affected by typhoons (tropical cyclones) and associated flooding, particularly during the typhoon season, which typically peaks in late summer and autumn.
Staying Informed About Typhoon and Flood Warnings
Staying informed is paramount when typhoons and floods threaten Japan. Reliable and timely information allows you to take necessary precautions and ensure your safety.
- Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA): The JMA website and app are your primary source for official typhoon and flood warnings. They provide:
- Typhoon forecasts and tracks: Detailed information on current typhoons, their predicted paths, strength, and arrival times.
- Rainfall information: Real-time rainfall data and forecasts, including warnings for heavy rain and flooding.
- Flood warnings: Warnings for river flooding and inundation in low-lying areas.
- Landslide warnings: Warnings for landslides and mudslides, which are common during heavy rain in mountainous areas.
- NHK World-Japan: NHK World-Japan provides up-to-date news and weather information in English, including typhoon and flood warnings. Their website and app are excellent resources for real-time updates.
- Local Municipality Websites and Emergency Broadcasts: Your local city or ward office will provide localized information and warnings related to typhoons and floods. Check their websites and listen for emergency broadcasts (防災無線 – bōsai musen) for specific instructions and evacuation advisories in your area.
- Weather Apps: Many weather apps available for smartphones provide detailed weather forecasts and alerts for Japan. Choose reputable weather apps that source data from reliable meteorological agencies.
Evacuation Centers and Procedures
When a typhoon or flood warning is issued, local authorities may issue evacuation advisories or orders. It is crucial to understand evacuation procedures and know where to go if evacuation is necessary.
- Evacuation Advisories and Orders:
- Evacuation Advisory (避難勧告 – Hinan Kankoku): This is an advisory to prepare for evacuation. It means that conditions are worsening, and you should start preparing to evacuate, gathering your emergency kit, and checking evacuation routes.
- Evacuation Order (避難指示 – Hinan Shiji): This is a mandatory evacuation order. It means that there is an imminent danger, and you must evacuate immediately to a designated evacuation center or safe location.
- Evacuation Centers (避難所 – hinanjo): Evacuation centers are designated safe places to go during a disaster. They are typically public facilities like schools, community centers, or gymnasiums.
- Location Information: Find out the locations of evacuation centers in your neighborhood in advance. This information is usually available on your municipal website and in disaster preparedness pamphlets from your city office. Evacuation maps (避難地図 – hinan chizu) showing evacuation routes to these centers are also often available.
- What to Bring: If you need to evacuate to a center, bring your emergency kit, including essential supplies like water, food, medications, identification, and valuables. Evacuation centers provide basic shelter, but supplies may be limited initially.
- Evacuate Early and Safely: If an evacuation order is issued, do not delay evacuation. Evacuate promptly and follow designated evacuation routes. Avoid flooded areas, rivers, and coastal areas during typhoons and heavy rain.
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Safety Measures During Typhoons and Floods
Even if you are not required to evacuate, taking safety measures during typhoons and floods is essential.
- Stay Indoors: The safest place to be during a typhoon or severe flood is indoors. Stay inside a sturdy building and avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary.
- Secure Your Home:
- Close windows and doors tightly and secure shutters or boards if available.
- Bring loose outdoor items indoors (e.g., laundry poles, flowerpots, bicycles) to prevent them from being blown away and causing damage or injury.
- Move valuables to higher floors in case of flooding.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Typhoons and floods can cause power outages.
- Charge your mobile phone and portable chargers in advance.
- Have flashlights and batteries readily available.
- Keep a supply of non-perishable food and bottled water that does not require cooking or refrigeration.
- Avoid Rivers, Coastal Areas, and Low-lying Areas: Stay away from rivers, beaches, and low-lying areas that are prone to flooding during heavy rain and typhoons. These areas become extremely dangerous during severe weather.
- Monitor Information: Continue to monitor weather forecasts and official warnings through reliable sources like JMA and NHK World-Japan, even after a typhoon has made landfall, as heavy rain and flooding can continue for some time.
By understanding these procedures and taking proactive safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks associated with earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and floods in Japan.
Additional Resources and Support for Foreigners in Japan
In addition to the essential emergency numbers and contacts, several resources and support systems are specifically designed to assist foreigners in Japan during emergencies and other challenging situations. These resources can provide language assistance, practical advice, and connection to your home country’s representation in Japan.
Emergency Multilingual Support
Language barriers can be a significant hurdle during emergencies. Japan offers several multilingual support services to bridge this gap.
Foreign Language Emergency Hotlines
For immediate language assistance during emergencies, you can utilize foreign language emergency hotlines.
- Japan Visitor Hotline: The Japan Visitor Hotline operated by JNTO provides 24-hour, year-round multilingual support in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. While primarily aimed at tourists, they can offer assistance in various emergencies, including medical issues, accidents, and disaster-related inquiries. They can provide guidance, connect you with relevant services, and offer interpretation support.
- Foreign Resident Support Services: Various organizations across Japan provide multilingual consultation services for foreign residents. These services offer assistance with daily life issues, legal matters, visa status, employment, and more. Key services include:
- Consultation Support Centers: Many prefectures and major cities have dedicated centers offering consultations in languages such as English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and others. These centers provide guidance on administrative procedures, daily life concerns, and can often connect residents with specialized services.
- Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC): Operated by the Immigration Services Agency, FRESC offers multilingual support for visa and residence procedures, as well as general living advice. Services are available in multiple languages, including English.
- National Consumer Affairs Center: This organization provides a list of consultation services available in English and other languages across different prefectures, helping foreign residents address consumer-related issues.
- Houterasu: This offers legal information and consultation services in multiple languages, including English, to help foreign residents navigate legal issues.
These services aim to support foreign residents in Japan by providing accessible, multilingual assistance for various aspects of life in Japan. Most services are free and confidential, with options for phone, email, or in-person consultations.
Utilizing Interpreter Services
Beyond hotlines, interpreter services can be invaluable for communication in more complex emergency situations, particularly when interacting with emergency responders or medical professionals.
- Telephone Interpretation Services: As mentioned earlier, when calling 110 or 119, you can request an interpreter (通訳をお願いします – Tsūyaku wo onegai shimasu). Dispatch centers in major cities often have access to telephone interpretation services that can facilitate communication in multiple languages via a three-way call.
- Medical Interpretation Services: Some hospitals and clinics, especially those catering to international patients, offer on-site or telephone medical interpretation services. Inquire with the medical facility beforehand or upon arrival if you require language assistance. Organizations like AMDA International Medical Information Center may also be able to provide referrals to medical interpreters.
Consulates and Embassies in Japan
Your home country’s consulate or embassy in Japan is a crucial resource for citizens abroad, especially in emergencies.
Contacting Your Embassy or Consulate for Assistance
Embassies and consulates can provide various forms of assistance to their citizens in distress in Japan. It is advisable to know the location and contact information of your embassy or consulate in Japan. You can typically find this information on your country’s foreign affairs department website or by searching online for “[Your Country] Embassy Japan”.
Embassies and consulates can assist with:
- Lost or stolen passports: Issuing emergency passports or travel documents if yours are lost or stolen.
- Serious illness or injury: Providing guidance and support if you are hospitalized or seriously injured, including contacting family members and liaising with local medical authorities.
- Arrest or detention: Providing consular access and ensuring you receive fair treatment if you are arrested or detained by Japanese authorities.
- Death of a citizen: Assisting with arrangements in case of the death of a citizen, including repatriation of remains.
- Disaster assistance: Providing information and support during major disasters, and assisting with evacuation if necessary (though evacuation is typically the responsibility of Japanese authorities).
Limits of Consular Assistance
It’s also important to understand the limitations of what embassies and consulates can do.
They generally cannot:
- Intervene in legal matters: They cannot act as your lawyer or intervene in Japanese legal proceedings.
- Provide financial assistance: They typically cannot provide direct financial aid beyond very limited emergency funds in extreme situations.
- Get you out of jail: They cannot get you released from jail if you are arrested for a crime.
- Override Japanese law: They must operate within the framework of Japanese law.
Consular assistance is primarily focused on protecting the basic rights and welfare of their citizens within the legal and administrative framework of the host country.
Online Resources and Apps
In today’s digital age, numerous online resources and mobile apps can be invaluable for accessing emergency information and preparedness tools in Japan.
Helpful Websites for Emergency Information
As discussed throughout this article, several key websites can provide crucial emergency information. Here is a quick list of previously mentioned, highly recommended websites:
- Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) Website: JMA Website – The official source for weather forecasts and disaster warnings, providing real-time information on earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and more. Available in English and other languages.
- NHK World-Japan Website: NHK World-Japan – Offers up-to-date news and disaster information in English and multiple languages. A reliable source for real-time updates during emergencies.
- Japan Safe Travel Website: Japan Safe Travel – Managed by JNTO, this website provides comprehensive safety information for visitors and residents, including emergency contacts and disaster alerts.
- Local Municipality Websites: Your local city or ward office website (search for “[Your City/Ward Name] City Office” or “[Your City/Ward Name] Ward Office”) – Provides localized disaster preparedness information, evacuation maps, and emergency contacts specific to your area. Check for multilingual options.
Emergency Preparedness Apps
Mobile apps can provide instant access to critical emergency information and tools right on your smartphone.
- NHK World-Japan App: The NHK World-Japan app provides news, disaster alerts, and live streaming in English and other languages.
- Safety Tips App: The Safety Tips app developed by the Japan Tourism Agency, is a highly recommended app for disaster preparedness. It provides multilingual disaster alerts and preparedness guidance in 15 languages. Key features include:
- Real-time push notifications: Receive alerts for earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and other emergencies.
- Multilingual support: Available in 15 languages, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Evacuation maps: Integrated maps showing evacuation centers and areas with flood risks.
- Emergency call function: Direct emergency calls to 110/119 from within the app.
- Location-sharing: A location-sharing function that automatically transmits your GPS coordinates to emergency responders during crises.
- Up-to-date information: Updated in 2024 to align with the latest disaster response protocols in Japan.
- Yurekuru Call: Yurekuru Call is a popular earthquake early warning app in Japan (available for Android and iOS). While primarily in Japanese, it provides very fast earthquake alerts and customizable notification settings.
- Local Municipality Disaster Preparedness Apps: Some municipalities have developed their own disaster preparedness apps that provide localized alerts, evacuation information, and safety guidance. Check your municipal website or app store for apps specific to your area.
By utilizing these additional resources and support systems, foreigners in Japan can significantly enhance their ability to navigate emergencies, access help when needed, and stay informed and prepared in a variety of situations.
Disaster Communication Tools
Disaster Emergency Message Dial (171): In the event of a large-scale disaster, the Disaster Emergency Message Dial (災害用伝言ダイヤル) number 171 becomes available. This is a vital communication tool when regular phone lines are congested. Number 171 allows you to:
- Record messages: You can record voice messages for your family and friends, letting them know you are safe.
- Listen to messages: You can listen to messages recorded by others, allowing you to check on the safety of your loved ones.
This service is crucial for maintaining contact when other communication methods may be unreliable. Be sure to familiarize yourself with how to use Disaster Emergency Message Dial 171 in advance.
Summary
This guide has equipped you with essential knowledge for navigating emergencies in Japan. Remember 110 for police and 119 for fire/ambulance. Utilize translation apps and interpreter services to overcome language barriers. Know key contacts like your embassy and local Koban. Stay informed about disasters through JMA, NHK World-Japan, and municipal websites/apps. Prepare an emergency kit and plan. Being informed and prepared is your best defense for a safe stay in Japan.
Key Takeaways for Emergency Preparedness in Japan
- Memorize 110 and 119.
- Prepare for language barriers with translation tools and interpreter services.
- Know your embassy/consulate and local Koban contacts.
- Utilize official information sources like JMA and NHK World-Japan for disaster updates.
- Create a personal emergency plan and prepare an emergency kit.
Q&A about Emergencies in Japan
What are the general emergency numbers in Japan?
For emergencies in Japan, the primary numbers are 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance. Dial 110 to report incidents or accidents requiring police assistance. Use 119 for situations requiring immediate fire services or medical assistance, such as fires or medical emergencies.
How do I call for an ambulance?
To request an ambulance in Japan, dial 119. When connected, clearly state “Kyūkyū desu. Onegai shimasu. (救急です。お願いします。)” which means “It’s a medical emergency. Please help.” Then, provide your current location and explain the nature of the medical emergency as clearly and concisely as possible.
What if I don’t speak Japanese during an emergency call?
If you have difficulty communicating in Japanese, request an interpreter by saying “Interpreter please (通訳をお願いします – Tsūyaku wo onegai shimasu)” when calling 110 or 119. Translation apps can also be helpful for basic communication.
Where can I find disaster preparedness information?
Access reliable disaster preparedness information from the JMA Website, NHK World-Japan, Japan Safe Travel, and your local municipal website.
Who can I contact for non-emergency help or questions?
For broader support and assistance with daily life in Japan, Foreign Resident Support Services are available throughout the country. These services can provide guidance on various issues, from administrative procedures to daily living advice. For tourists and visitors, the Japan Visitor Hotline remains a valuable resource for general guidance and support in non-emergency situations. You can also search online for “[your location] Foreign Resident Support Center” to find local services in your area.