Hiroshima

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Emergency Contact Numbers

Sections

1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Hiroshima

a. Police (Crime, Theft, Lost Items, General Emergencies)

  • Number: 110
  • Service: For reporting crimes, theft, accidents, or lost items.
  • Languages: Japanese. Some operators may have access to English or other language support, but this is not guaranteed.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 110 from any phone (landline, mobile, or public payphone).
    2. Clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency.
    3. If you do not speak Japanese, say "English, please" or the name of your language. They may connect you to an interpreter, but this could take time.
  • Cultural Note: Be concise and calm when explaining the situation. Japanese police are known for their thoroughness, so they may ask detailed questions.

b. Fire and Ambulance (Medical Emergencies, Fires, Rescue)

  • Number: 119
  • Service: For fire emergencies, medical emergencies, and rescue services.
  • Languages: Japanese. Some operators may have access to English or other language support.
  • Cost:
    • Fire services: Free.
    • Ambulance services: Free for transport, but medical treatment at hospitals is not free. Ensure you have travel insurance or sufficient funds to cover medical costs.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 119 from any phone.
    2. Specify whether you need a fire service ("Kaji desu" for fire) or an ambulance ("Kyลซkyลซ desu" for ambulance).
    3. Provide your location and details of the emergency.
    4. If you do not speak Japanese, say "English, please" or your language. They may connect you to an interpreter.
  • Cultural Note: Ambulances in Japan are well-equipped and staffed by trained paramedics. However, they will take you to the nearest hospital that can handle your case, which may not always be the closest one.

c. Maritime Emergencies (Coastal or Water-Related Incidents)

  • Number: 118
  • Service: For emergencies at sea, such as accidents or distress situations.
  • Languages: Japanese. Limited English support may be available.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 118 and describe the emergency.
    2. Provide your location (if possible, use landmarks or GPS coordinates).

d. General Emergency Assistance for Tourists

  • Japan Visitor Hotline: 050-3816-2787
  • Service: A 24/7 multilingual hotline for tourists. They provide assistance with emergencies, natural disasters, and general travel-related issues.
  • Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial the number and explain your situation.
    2. They can guide you on what to do or connect you to the appropriate emergency service.

2. Non-Emergency and Support Services

a. Lost and Found (Non-Emergency Police Assistance)

  • Contact: Visit the nearest Kลban (police box).
  • Service: Assistance with lost items, directions, or minor non-emergency issues.
  • Languages: Japanese. Some officers may speak basic English.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Cultural Note: Kลban are small, neighborhood police stations found throughout Hiroshima. Officers are approachable and helpful.

b. Hiroshima City Medical Interpreter Service

  • Contact: 082-504-9990 (Hiroshima City International Center)
  • Service: Provides interpretation services for medical consultations.
  • Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, and others.
  • Cost: Free for interpretation, but medical treatment costs apply.
  • Procedure:
    1. Call the number to request an interpreter.
    2. They will assist you in communicating with medical staff.

c. Hiroshima International Center

  • Contact: 082-541-3777
  • Service: Offers support for foreigners, including information on local services, legal advice, and disaster preparedness.
  • Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, and others.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Cultural Note: This is a great resource for non-emergency situations where you need guidance or support.

3. Costs and Insurance Considerations

  • Ambulance Services: Free for transport, but hospital treatment is not free. Ensure you have:
    • Travel Insurance: Covers medical expenses and emergencies.
    • Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI): If you are a resident, this significantly reduces medical costs.
  • Medical Costs: Without insurance, a hospital visit can cost ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ50,000 or more, depending on the treatment.

4. Cultural and Practical Considerations

  • Language Barrier: While Hiroshima is a popular tourist destination, English proficiency among emergency service staff may be limited. Carry a phrasebook or use translation apps like Google Translate to communicate basic information.
  • Address Format: Japanese addresses can be confusing. Learn how to describe your location using landmarks or GPS coordinates. If possible, carry a written note of your address in Japanese.
  • Public Payphones: These are still available in Japan and can be used for free to call emergency numbers. Look for green or gray payphones.
  • Behavior: Japanese culture values politeness and calmness, even in emergencies. Speak clearly and avoid raising your voice.

5. Natural Disasters and Preparedness

Hiroshima, like other parts of Japan, is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and floods. Here are some resources to stay prepared:

  • Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA): Provides real-time updates on weather and earthquakes. Website: www.jma.go.jp
  • Disaster Preparedness App: Download apps like Safety Tips (available in multiple languages) for alerts and guidance during disasters.
  • Evacuation Centers: Hiroshima City has designated evacuation centers. Check with your accommodation or the Hiroshima International Center for the nearest location.

6. Summary of Key Numbers

| Service | Number | Languages | Cost | |---------------------------|--------------------|-----------------------|----------| | Police | 110 | Japanese, limited English | Free | | Fire/Ambulance | 119 | Japanese, limited English | Free | | Maritime Emergencies | 118 | Japanese, limited English | Free | | Japan Visitor Hotline | 050-3816-2787 | English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese | Free | | Hiroshima Medical Interpreter | 082-504-9990 | English, Chinese, Korean | Free | | Hiroshima International Center | 082-541-3777 | English, Chinese, Korean | Free |

By keeping this information handy, you can navigate emergencies in Hiroshima with confidence. Always ensure you have access to a phone and know your location to expedite assistance.