Kobe
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Communication for Emergencies
How to stay informed and communicate during emergency situations, including apps and warning systems.
Sections
1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Kobe
Japan has a standardized emergency number system nationwide, including Kobe. Here are the key numbers to remember:
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Police (for crimes, accidents, or lost items): Dial 110
- Available 24/7.
- Free of charge.
- Limited English support, but interpreters may be available depending on the situation.
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Fire Department and Ambulance (for fires, medical emergencies, or rescue): Dial 119
- Available 24/7.
- Free of charge.
- Limited English support, but interpreters may be available.
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Kobe City Disaster Prevention Hotline: Dial 078-333-6110
- Provides information during disasters (earthquakes, typhoons, etc.).
- English and other language support available.
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Japan Coast Guard (for maritime emergencies): Dial 118
2. Language Support Services
Language barriers can be a concern for non-Japanese speakers during emergencies. Kobe offers several resources to assist foreigners:
Multilingual Emergency Support
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Kobe City Multilingual Consultation Center
- Phone: 078-291-8441
- Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, and others.
- Services: Assistance with emergency communication, disaster information, and general inquiries.
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (may extend during emergencies).
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Japan Tourism Agencyโs Multilingual Call Center
- Phone: 050-3816-2787
- Available 24/7.
- Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, Thai, and more.
- Free of charge.
- Can assist with interpreting during emergency calls to police, fire, or medical services.
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Kobe International Community Center (KICC)
- Phone: 078-291-8441
- Offers multilingual support and guidance for foreign residents and visitors.
Emergency Translation Apps
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VoiceTra App
- A free app developed by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT).
- Provides real-time translation for over 30 languages, including Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.
- Useful for communicating with emergency responders.
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Google Translate
- Widely used for basic communication.
- Includes a camera feature for translating Japanese text on signs or documents.
3. Costs Involved
- Emergency Calls (110, 119, 118): Free of charge.
- Ambulance Services: Free of charge for transport, but hospital treatment and medication costs apply.
- Note: Japanโs healthcare system requires payment for medical services. If you have travel insurance, ensure it covers emergency medical care.
- Language Support Services: Most are free, especially those provided by government or municipal organizations.
4. Procedures to Follow During Emergencies
General Steps
- Stay Calm: Assess the situation and determine the type of emergency (crime, fire, medical, etc.).
- Dial the Appropriate Number:
- Police: 110
- Fire/Ambulance: 119
- Provide Key Information:
- Your location (use landmarks or addresses if possible).
- Nature of the emergency (e.g., fire, injury, theft).
- Your name and contact information.
- Follow Instructions: Emergency responders may ask you to stay on the line or take specific actions.
- Seek Language Assistance: If you donโt speak Japanese, request an interpreter or use a translation app.
During Natural Disasters
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Earthquakes:
- Take cover under sturdy furniture or move to an open area if outdoors.
- After the shaking stops, check for injuries and hazards (e.g., gas leaks).
- Tune in to local emergency broadcasts for updates (see section on tools below).
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Typhoons/Floods:
- Monitor weather updates and evacuation orders.
- Move to higher ground if flooding occurs.
- Avoid rivers, coastal areas, and other hazardous zones.
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Evacuation Shelters:
- Kobe has designated evacuation shelters (้ฟ้ฃๆ, hinanjo), often located in schools or community centers.
- Look for signs or ask locals for directions.
- Bring essential items like ID, water, and medication.
5. Local Considerations Specific to Kobe
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Earthquake Preparedness:
- Kobe is in a seismically active region. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety measures and evacuation routes.
- The city has a robust disaster response system, including regular drills and public awareness campaigns.
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Disaster Information in English:
- Kobe City provides multilingual disaster information through its website and social media channels.
- Check the Kobe City Official Website for updates: https://www.city.kobe.lg.jp.
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Community Support:
- Kobe has a large international community, and many neighborhoods have volunteer groups that assist foreigners during emergencies.
6. Tools, Apps, and Websites for Emergency Communication
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NHK World App:
- Provides real-time news and emergency alerts in English.
- Includes disaster preparedness tips and updates during crises.
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Safety Tips App:
- Developed by the Japan Tourism Agency.
- Offers real-time alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and other disasters.
- Available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean.
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Kobe City Disaster Prevention App:
- Provides local disaster information, evacuation maps, and safety tips.
- Available in Japanese, but can be used with translation apps.
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Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) Website:
- https://www.jma.go.jp
- Offers weather forecasts, earthquake reports, and tsunami warnings in English.
7. Additional Tips
- Save Key Numbers: Program emergency numbers and language support hotlines into your phone.
- Carry Identification: Always have your passport or residence card with you, as it may be required during emergencies.
- Learn Basic Japanese Phrases:
- Help: ๅฉใใฆ (Tasukete)
- Fire: ็ซไบ (Kaji)
- Ambulance: ๆๆฅ่ป (Kyลซkyลซsha)
- Police: ่ญฆๅฏ (Keisatsu)
- Stay Informed: Follow local news and weather updates, especially during typhoon season (June to October).
By familiarizing yourself with these resources and procedures, youโll be better prepared to handle emergencies during your time in Kobe. Stay safe!