๐Ÿšจ

Safety and Emergency Services

Information on safety measures, emergency contacts, and disaster preparedness in Japan.

Sections

1. Overview of Safety in Japan

  • Low Crime Rate: Japan has one of the lowest crime rates globally. Violent crime is rare, and petty crimes like pickpocketing are uncommon. However, visitors and immigrants should still exercise caution, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.
  • Natural Disasters: Japan is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions. The country has robust systems in place to mitigate risks and respond to emergencies.

2. Emergency Services in Japan

Japanโ€™s emergency services are highly efficient and include police, fire, ambulance, and disaster response teams. These services are accessible nationwide.

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Fire and Ambulance: 119
  • Coast Guard (for maritime emergencies): 118
  • English-Speaking Emergency Assistance: Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL) at 03-5774-0992 (non-emergency mental health support).

Language Support

  • Emergency operators may have access to interpreters for English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages. However, it is helpful to know basic Japanese phrases for emergencies.

3. Police Services

  • Role: The police handle crime prevention, traffic control, and public safety. They also assist with lost property and provide directions.
  • Koban (Police Boxes): Small neighborhood police stations called "koban" are located throughout Japan. They are a convenient place to report minor incidents, ask for help, or seek directions.
  • Regulations: Visitors and immigrants are required to carry identification at all times (e.g., a passport or residence card). Police may conduct random ID checks.

Costs

  • Police services are free of charge.

Standard Procedures

  1. Dial 110 for emergencies.
  2. Clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency.
  3. If you are unable to communicate in Japanese, say "English, please" or use a translation app.

4. Fire and Ambulance Services

  • Role: The fire department handles fire emergencies, rescues, and medical emergencies requiring ambulance services.
  • Regulations: Ambulance services are free, but hospital treatment costs are not covered unless you have insurance.

Costs

  • Ambulance rides are free.
  • Medical treatment costs depend on your insurance:
    • National Health Insurance (NHI): Covers 70% of medical costs for residents.
    • Travel Insurance: Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.

Standard Procedures

  1. Dial 119 for fire or medical emergencies.
  2. Clearly state "Kaji desu" (fire) or "Kyลซkyลซ desu" (ambulance).
  3. Provide your location and details of the emergency.
  4. If you are unable to communicate in Japanese, say "English, please."

5. Disaster Preparedness and Response

Japan has a well-developed disaster management system, including early warning systems and evacuation protocols.

Earthquakes

  • Regulations: Buildings in Japan are constructed to strict earthquake-resistant standards.
  • Preparation: Keep an emergency kit with water, food, a flashlight, and a portable phone charger.
  • Alerts: Earthquake alerts are sent to mobile phones via the J-Alert system.

Tsunamis

  • Warnings: Tsunami warnings are issued after significant earthquakes. Evacuate to higher ground immediately if a warning is issued.

Typhoons

  • Season: Typhoon season runs from June to October.
  • Preparation: Secure outdoor items, stock up on supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel during typhoons.

Volcanic Eruptions

  • Monitoring: Japan monitors active volcanoes and issues warnings when necessary.

Evacuation Centers

  • Designated evacuation centers (้ฟ้›ฃๆ‰€, "hinanjo") are set up during disasters. These centers provide shelter, food, and information.

6. Healthcare and Medical Emergencies

  • Hospitals and Clinics: Japan has high-quality healthcare facilities. Major hospitals in urban areas often have English-speaking staff.
  • Insurance:
    • Residents must enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employees' Health Insurance (EHI).
    • Visitors should have travel insurance to cover medical costs.
  • Costs: Without insurance, medical treatment can be expensive. For example:
    • A doctorโ€™s consultation: ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ10,000.
    • Hospitalization: ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ30,000 per day.

Standard Procedures

  1. Call 119 for an ambulance if needed.
  2. Visit a hospital or clinic for non-emergency care.
  3. Carry your insurance card or proof of travel insurance.

7. Country-Specific Considerations

  • Cultural Norms:
    • Japanese people are generally calm and orderly during emergencies. Follow local behavior and instructions.
    • Avoid causing panic or disrupting emergency services.
  • Lost and Found: Japan has an excellent lost-and-found system. Report lost items to the nearest koban or contact the relevant transportation company.
  • Emergency Apps:
    • Yurekuru Call: Provides earthquake alerts.
    • Safety Tips: Offers disaster information in multiple languages.
    • Japan Official Travel App: Includes emergency contact information and safety tips.

8. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  1. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Knowing how to say your address, phone number, and emergency phrases in Japanese can be helpful.
  2. Carry Identification: Always carry your passport (for visitors) or residence card (for immigrants).
  3. Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and disaster alerts, especially during typhoon season.
  4. Emergency Kit: Keep a small emergency kit at home or in your bag.
  5. Know Your Location: Familiarize yourself with the nearest koban, hospital, and evacuation center.

9. Summary Table of Emergency Numbers

| Service | Number | Notes | |------------------------|--------|-----------------------------------------| | Police | 110 | For crimes, accidents, and lost items. | | Fire and Ambulance | 119 | For fires and medical emergencies. | | Coast Guard | 118 | For maritime emergencies. | | English Assistance | TELL | 03-5774-0992 (non-emergency support). |

By understanding Japanโ€™s safety and emergency services, visitors and immigrants can feel confident navigating the country and responding effectively to emergencies. Always stay prepared and informed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Japan.