Fukuoka

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Emergency Services

Sections

1. Overview of Emergency Services in Japan

Japan has a well-organized and efficient emergency response system. In Fukuoka, as in the rest of Japan, emergency services are accessible via a centralized number system. The key emergency numbers are:

  • Police (Dial 110): For crimes, accidents, or any situation requiring police intervention.
  • Fire and Ambulance (Dial 119): For fires, medical emergencies, or rescue situations.

Both numbers are toll-free and available 24/7. Operators may not always speak fluent English, but they will do their best to assist or connect you to an interpreter.

2. Police Services (110)

When to Call

  • Reporting crimes (theft, assault, fraud, etc.).
  • Reporting traffic accidents.
  • Seeking help if you are lost or in danger.

Contact Information

  • Emergency Number: 110
  • Nearest Police Station in Fukuoka:
    • Fukuoka Prefectural Police Headquarters
      • Address: 7-7 Higashikoen, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-8576
      • Phone (non-emergency): +81-92-641-4141

Procedure

  1. Dial 110.
  2. State your location clearly. If you don’t speak Japanese, say β€œEigo o hanasemasu ka?” (Do you speak English?).
  3. Briefly explain the situation (e.g., β€œI need help. My wallet was stolen.”).
  4. Follow the operator’s instructions.

Costs

  • Police services are free of charge.

Cultural Considerations

  • Police officers in Japan are generally approachable and helpful. You can also visit a kōban (police box), which are small neighborhood police stations, for non-emergency assistance like directions or lost-and-found inquiries.
  • Be patient if there is a language barrier. Use simple English or translation apps if necessary.

3. Fire and Ambulance Services (119)

When to Call

  • Reporting a fire.
  • Requesting an ambulance for medical emergencies.
  • Rescue situations (e.g., someone trapped in a building or vehicle).

Contact Information

  • Emergency Number: 119
  • Fukuoka City Fire Department Headquarters:
    • Address: 1-1-1 Momochihama, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0001
    • Phone (non-emergency): +81-92-847-6110

Procedure

  1. Dial 119.
  2. Specify whether you need a fire truck (β€œkaji desu” for fire) or an ambulance (β€œkyΕ«kyΕ« desu” for ambulance).
  3. Provide your location. If you’re unsure, describe nearby landmarks or use GPS coordinates from your phone.
  4. Follow the operator’s instructions.

Costs

  • Fire Services: Free of charge.
  • Ambulance Services: Free for transport, but you will be charged for medical treatment at the hospital.

Cultural Considerations

  • Ambulances in Japan are not used for minor injuries or illnesses. Only call if it’s a genuine emergency.
  • Emergency responders may not speak English fluently. Use translation apps or ask a Japanese-speaking person nearby for help.

4. Medical Services

Emergency Hospitals in Fukuoka

If you need medical attention but it’s not life-threatening, you can go directly to an emergency hospital. Some hospitals in Fukuoka have English-speaking staff.

  • Fukuoka Red Cross Hospital

  • Kyushu University Hospital

Costs

  • Medical treatment in Japan is not free. If you have Japanese health insurance, it will cover 70% of the costs, and you’ll pay the remaining 30%.
  • Without insurance, you’ll need to pay the full amount upfront. Costs can vary depending on the treatment but expect to pay several thousand yen for basic care.

Procedure

  1. If you’re taken to a hospital by ambulance, the paramedics will decide the most appropriate facility.
  2. If you go on your own, bring your passport and health insurance card (if applicable).
  3. Be prepared to pay in cash or by credit card.

Cultural Considerations

  • Japanese hospitals may require upfront payment for services.
  • English-speaking staff may not be available at all hospitals, so consider bringing a Japanese-speaking friend or using a translation app.

5. Practical Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

Language Barriers

  • Emergency operators may not speak fluent English. Learn a few key phrases in Japanese or use a translation app like Google Translate.
  • The Japan Tourism Agency offers a 24-hour Multilingual Medical Information Hotline for assistance in English and other languages:
    • Phone: +81-92-286-9595

Mobile Apps

  • Safety Tips App: This free app provides emergency alerts and disaster information in multiple languages, including English.
  • Google Maps: Use it to share your location with emergency responders.

Cultural Norms

  • Japanese people are generally calm and composed during emergencies. Try to remain calm and follow instructions.
  • Bowing is a common gesture of gratitude, even in emergency situations.

Disaster Preparedness

  • Fukuoka is prone to natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and emergency shelters in your area.
  • The Fukuoka City website provides disaster preparedness information in English: Fukuoka City Disaster Prevention

6. Summary of Emergency Numbers

| Service | Number | Languages Available | |--------------------|------------|--------------------------| | Police | 110 | Japanese, limited English | | Fire/Ambulance | 119 | Japanese, limited English | | Medical Hotline | +81-92-286-9595 | English, other languages |

By understanding these systems and preparing in advance, you can navigate emergencies in Fukuoka with confidence. Let me know if you need further assistance!