Sapporo

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Emergency Services

Basic information about emergency contacts and services in Sapporo, including police, fire, and medical assistance.

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Comprehensive Guide to Emergency Services in Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a safe and well-organized city, but emergencies can happen anywhere. Itโ€™s essential to know how to access emergency services and understand the procedures and cultural nuances to handle such situations effectively. Below is a detailed guide to emergency services in Sapporo, covering police, fire, and medical assistance, as well as practical tips and cultural considerations.

1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Sapporo

Japan has a streamlined emergency response system, and the same numbers apply nationwide, including in Sapporo:

  • Police (for crimes, accidents, or lost property): Dial 110
  • Fire and Ambulance (for fires, medical emergencies, or rescue): Dial 119

Both numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones and public payphones.

How to Use Public Payphones in Emergencies:

  • Locate a green or gray public payphone.
  • Pick up the receiver and press 110 or 119 (no coins or cards are needed for emergency calls).

2. Language Support

  • English Assistance: Operators at 110 and 119 may not always speak fluent English. However, they will do their best to assist or connect you to an interpreter.
  • Interpreter Services: If you struggle with Japanese, you can also use the Japan Tourism Agencyโ€™s Japan Visitor Hotline at 050-3816-2787 (available 24/7 in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean). They can assist with emergencies and provide guidance.

3. Police Services in Sapporo

The police in Sapporo are highly professional and approachable. They handle crimes, traffic accidents, lost property, and other safety-related issues.

When to Call 110:

  • To report a crime (e.g., theft, assault).
  • To report a traffic accident.
  • If you find or lose property.

What to Expect When Calling 110:

  • Be prepared to provide your location. If youโ€™re unsure, describe nearby landmarks or use your phoneโ€™s GPS.
  • Explain the situation clearly and calmly.
  • If language is a barrier, request an interpreter.

Nearest Police Stations (Koban):

  • Sapporo has many Koban (police boxes) located throughout the city. These are small, local police stations where you can report minor incidents or ask for directions. Officers at Koban are friendly and often assist tourists.

4. Fire and Ambulance Services in Sapporo

The fire department in Sapporo handles both fire emergencies and medical emergencies requiring an ambulance.

When to Call 119:

  • To report a fire.
  • To request an ambulance for a medical emergency.
  • To request rescue services (e.g., in case of a natural disaster or accident).

What to Expect When Calling 119:

  • Specify whether you need a fire truck (kaji desu โ€“ ็ซไบ‹ใงใ™) or an ambulance (kyลซkyลซsha desu โ€“ ๆ•‘ๆ€ฅ่ปŠใงใ™).
  • Provide your location and a brief description of the emergency.
  • If you donโ€™t speak Japanese, say โ€œEnglish, pleaseโ€ (Eigo onegaishimasu โ€“ ่‹ฑ่ชžใŠ้ก˜ใ„ใ—ใพใ™).

5. Medical Emergencies in Sapporo

Japanโ€™s healthcare system is excellent, and Sapporo has many hospitals and clinics equipped to handle emergencies. However, not all facilities have English-speaking staff.

Key Hospitals with English-Speaking Staff:

  1. Hokkaido University Hospital

    • Address: Kita 14, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo
    • Phone: +81-11-716-1161
    • Services: Comprehensive medical care, including emergency services.

  2. Sapporo Medical University Hospital

    • Address: Minami 1, Nishi 16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
    • Phone: +81-11-611-2111
    • Services: Advanced medical care and emergency treatment.

  3. NTT East Sapporo Hospital

    • Address: Kita 1, Higashi 1, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
    • Phone: +81-11-251-0111
    • Services: General medical care with some English-speaking staff.

Costs for Medical Services:

  • Ambulance services in Japan are free of charge.
  • Medical treatment is not free. If you have travel insurance, it should cover the costs. Without insurance, you will need to pay out of pocket.
  • Carry your passport and travel insurance details when visiting a hospital.

Pharmacies (Drugstores):

  • Pharmacies (called kusuriya or yakkyoku) are widely available in Sapporo. For minor ailments, you can consult a pharmacist, but for serious issues, visit a hospital.

6. Procedures to Follow During an Emergency

  1. Stay Calm: Japanese emergency responders are highly efficient, but clear communication is essential.
  2. Provide Accurate Information: Give your name, location, and a description of the emergency.
  3. Follow Instructions: Emergency personnel may provide specific instructions. Follow them carefully.
  4. Carry Identification: Always have your passport or residence card with you, as it may be required during emergencies.

7. Local Considerations and Cultural Tips

  • Natural Disasters: Hokkaido, including Sapporo, is prone to earthquakes and heavy snowstorms. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures and monitor weather updates during winter.
    • Download the NHK World App or use the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) website for real-time alerts in English.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Japanese people value politeness and calmness, even in emergencies. Avoid panicking or raising your voice.
  • Lost in Translation: If you donโ€™t speak Japanese, use translation apps like Google Translate or carry a phrasebook with emergency-related phrases.

8. Additional Resources

  • Japan Visitor Hotline: 050-3816-2787 (24/7 multilingual support for tourists).
  • Sapporo International Communication Plaza Foundation:
    • Phone: +81-11-211-2105
    • Services: Assistance for foreign residents and visitors in Sapporo.
  • Embassy/Consulate: Keep the contact details of your countryโ€™s embassy or consulate in Japan handy for emergencies.

9. Summary Checklist

  • Memorize the emergency numbers: 110 (Police) and 119 (Fire/Ambulance).
  • Carry your passport, insurance details, and a list of key phrases in Japanese.
  • Download useful apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and NHK World for alerts.
  • Stay informed about local risks, such as earthquakes and snowstorms.

By being prepared and understanding the emergency services in Sapporo, you can handle unexpected situations with confidence and ease.