Nagoya
Emergency Contacts
Essential contacts for police, fire, medical, and disaster services in Nagoya.
Sections
1. Key Emergency Numbers in Nagoya
Japan has a well-organized emergency response system, and the same applies to Nagoya. Here are the primary emergency numbers:
a. Police (110)
- Purpose: Report crimes, theft, accidents, or suspicious activities.
- Language Support: Limited English support is available. If you donโt speak Japanese, say โEnglish, pleaseโ when calling.
- Cost: Free.
- Procedure:
- Dial 110 from any phone (landline, mobile, or public payphone).
- Provide your location (use landmarks if unsure of the address).
- Briefly explain the situation.
b. Fire Department and Ambulance (119)
- Purpose: Report fires, request an ambulance, or seek rescue services.
- Language Support: Limited English support is available. Say โEnglish, pleaseโ if needed.
- Cost: Free to call. However, ambulance services are free, but you will be charged for medical treatment and hospital transport.
- Procedure:
- Dial 119.
- Clearly state whether you need a fire truck (โfireโ) or an ambulance (โambulanceโ).
- Provide your location and describe the emergency.
c. Emergency Medical Information Center (052-263-1133)
- Purpose: Assistance in finding nearby hospitals or clinics, especially during non-business hours.
- Language Support: English and other languages may be available.
- Cost: Free to call.
- Procedure:
- Call the number and explain your medical issue.
- They will guide you to the nearest available medical facility.
2. Embassy and Consulate Contacts
If you are a foreign national, your embassy or consulate can provide assistance in emergencies such as lost passports, legal issues, or natural disasters. Below are some key embassies with jurisdiction over Nagoya:
a. U.S. Consulate in Nagoya
- Address: Nagoya International Center Building, 6th Floor, 1-47-1 Nagono, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya.
- Phone: +81-52-581-4501
- Emergency After-Hours: +81-3-3224-5000 (U.S. Embassy in Tokyo).
- Website: U.S. Embassy Japan
b. British Consulate (via Osaka Office)
- Phone: +81-6-6120-5600
- Emergency After-Hours: +44-20-7008-5000 (Global Contact Center).
- Website: UK in Japan
c. Australian Consulate (via Osaka Office)
- Phone: +81-6-6941-9271
- Emergency After-Hours: +61-2-6261-3305 (Consular Emergency Centre).
- Website: Australia in Japan
d. Canadian Consulate (via Nagoya Office)
- Address: Nagoya International Center, 3rd Floor, 1-47-1 Nagono, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya.
- Phone: +81-52-972-0450
- Website: Canada in Japan
For other nationalities, check your embassyโs website for contact details and emergency procedures.
3. Local Considerations
a. Language Barriers
- Many emergency responders in Nagoya may not speak fluent English. Itโs helpful to learn a few key Japanese phrases:
- Help!: ๅฉใใฆ๏ผ(Tasukete!)
- I need an ambulance.: ๆๆฅ่ปใใ้กใใใพใใ(Kyลซkyลซsha o onegaishimasu.)
- I need the police.: ่ญฆๅฏใใ้กใใใพใใ(Keisatsu o onegaishimasu.)
- Alternatively, use translation apps like Google Translate or VoiceTra to communicate.
b. Cultural Nuances
- Japanese people are generally polite and calm, even in emergencies. Try to remain composed and provide clear, concise information.
- Bowing is a common gesture of gratitude, even in emergencies.
c. Public Payphones
- Public payphones in Japan can be used to call emergency numbers for free. Look for green or gray payphones in public areas.
4. Useful Apps and Hotlines
a. Japan Travel App (by JNTO)
- Purpose: Provides emergency information, including hospital locations and disaster updates.
- Languages: English and other major languages.
- Download: Available on iOS and Android.
b. Safety Tips App
- Purpose: Offers real-time alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, and other disasters. Includes emergency contact information.
- Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
- Download: Available on iOS and Android.
c. Nagoya International Center (NIC)
- Purpose: Provides multilingual support for foreign residents and visitors, including emergency guidance.
- Phone: +81-52-581-0100
- Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and more.
- Website: Nagoya International Center
d. Japan Helpline (24/7)
- Phone: +81-570-000-911
- Purpose: A 24-hour English-language helpline for any type of emergency or assistance.
- Cost: Local call charges apply.
5. Emergency Procedures
a. Earthquakes
- Nagoya is in a seismically active region. In case of an earthquake:
- Drop, cover, and hold on.
- Evacuate to an open area or designated evacuation center if necessary.
- Follow updates via the Safety Tips App or local TV/radio.
b. Typhoons
- Typhoon season in Nagoya typically runs from June to October. Stay indoors during warnings and monitor weather updates.
c. Medical Emergencies
- If you need urgent medical care but itโs not life-threatening, visit a hospital or clinic. Use the Emergency Medical Information Center (052-263-1133) to find English-speaking facilities.
6. Costs and Insurance
- Ambulance: Free, but medical treatment and transport costs apply.
- Medical Treatment: Japanโs healthcare system is not free. Ensure you have travel insurance or Japanโs National Health Insurance (if a resident).
- Police and Fire Services: Free.
7. Summary of Key Contacts
| Service | Number | Language Support | |---------------------------|--------------------|-----------------------| | Police | 110 | Limited English | | Fire/Ambulance | 119 | Limited English | | Emergency Medical Info | 052-263-1133 | English available | | Nagoya International Center | +81-52-581-0100 | Multilingual | | Japan Helpline | +81-570-000-911 | English |
By familiarizing yourself with these resources and procedures, youโll be better equipped to handle emergencies in Nagoya. Stay safe and prepared!