Nagoya

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Emergency Communication

Guidelines on how to contact emergency services such as police, ambulance, or fire departments in the Nagoya area.

Sections

1. Local Emergency Hotline Numbers

In Japan, emergency services are centralized and accessible nationwide, including in Nagoya. Here are the key numbers to remember:

  • Police (for crimes, accidents, or suspicious activity):
    Dial 110

    • Available 24/7.
    • Free of charge.
    • Operators may have limited English proficiency, but they will try to assist or connect you to an interpreter.

  • Fire Department and Ambulance (for fires, medical emergencies, or rescue):
    Dial 119

    • Available 24/7.
    • Free of charge.
    • Operators can connect you to English-speaking staff or interpreters if needed.

  • Nagoya City Emergency Medical Information Center:
    Dial 052-263-1133

    • Provides guidance on nearby hospitals and clinics, including those with English-speaking staff.
    • Available 24/7.

2. Language Support Services

Language barriers can be a concern in emergencies, but Nagoya offers several resources to assist non-Japanese speakers:

  • Multilingual Emergency Interpretation Service:
    When calling 110 or 119, operators can connect you to interpreters for major languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese.

  • Japan Visitor Hotline (by JNTO):
    Dial 050-3816-2787

    • Available 24/7.
    • Offers assistance in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
    • Can provide guidance on what to do in emergencies, including natural disasters.

  • Nagoya International Center (NIC):

    • Phone: 052-581-0100
    • Offers multilingual support and advice for non-Japanese speakers.
    • Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
    • Provides interpretation services and guidance on emergency procedures.

3. Mobile and App-Based Emergency Tools

Japan has a robust system of mobile and app-based tools to help residents and visitors during emergencies:

  • Japan Official Emergency App: Yurekuru Call

    • Provides real-time earthquake alerts and safety tips.
    • Available in multiple languages, including English.
    • Free to download on iOS and Android.

  • NHK World App

    • Offers emergency news and updates in English.
    • Includes alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, and other disasters.

  • Safety Tips App (by JNTO):

    • Provides disaster alerts (earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons) in multiple languages.
    • Includes evacuation advice and emergency contact information.
    • Free to download on iOS and Android.

  • LINE App (Popular in Japan):

    • Many local governments, including Nagoya, use LINE to send emergency updates.
    • Follow the Nagoya City official account for alerts and information.

4. Procedures to Follow During an Emergency

Hereโ€™s what to do in common emergency scenarios in Nagoya:

a. Medical Emergency

  1. Call 119 for an ambulance.
  2. Clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency.
  3. If language is a barrier, request an English-speaking operator or interpreter.
  4. Carry your health insurance card (if applicable) and identification.

b. Crime or Suspicious Activity

  1. Call 110 to report the incident to the police.
  2. Provide as much detail as possible about the situation and location.
  3. If you are unable to communicate in Japanese, request an interpreter.

c. Natural Disasters (Earthquakes, Typhoons, etc.)

  1. Follow alerts from apps like Yurekuru Call or Safety Tips.
  2. Evacuate to the nearest designated shelter if necessary.
    • Shelters are marked as "้ฟ้›ฃๆ‰€" (hinanjo) and are often located in schools or community centers.
  3. Listen to local radio or check the NHK World App for updates in English.

d. Fire

  1. Call 119 to report the fire.
  2. Evacuate the building immediately and avoid using elevators.
  3. Follow instructions from emergency responders upon their arrival.

5. Costs (If Any)

  • Emergency Calls (110 and 119): Free of charge.
  • Ambulance Services: Free to call and use, but you will be charged for medical treatment and hospital fees.
    • Ensure you have travel insurance or Japanese health insurance to cover costs.
  • Interpretation Services: Free when provided through emergency hotlines or apps.

6. Specific Local Considerations and Advice

  • Earthquake Preparedness:
    Nagoya is in a seismically active region. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures, such as taking cover under sturdy furniture and securing heavy objects in your accommodation.

  • Typhoon Season (June to October):
    Stay updated on weather conditions during typhoon season. Use apps like Safety Tips for real-time alerts.

  • Carry Essential Information:
    Always carry a card with your name, emergency contact, and any medical conditions written in Japanese. This can be helpful for first responders.

  • Public Announcements:
    Nagoya uses loudspeakers to broadcast emergency information. These announcements are usually in Japanese, so rely on apps or local contacts for translations.

  • Cultural Note:
    Japanese emergency responders are highly professional and efficient. However, they may not always speak English fluently. Be patient and use simple language or apps to communicate.

7. Additional Resources

  • Nagoya City Official Website:
    Provides emergency preparedness guides and updates in English.
    Website: https://www.city.nagoya.jp/

  • Embassy or Consulate:
    Keep the contact information of your countryโ€™s embassy or consulate in Japan. They can provide assistance during emergencies.

By familiarizing yourself with these resources and procedures, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle emergencies in Nagoya. Stay safe!