Sendai
Emergency Services
Guidelines on how to access emergency services like police, ambulance, and fire in Sendai.
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Emergency Services in Sendai, Japan
Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region, is known for its safety and well-organized infrastructure. However, emergencies can happen, and itโs important to know how to access help. Below is a detailed guide to emergency services in Sendai, covering police, fire, and medical assistance.
1. Emergency Phone Numbers
Japan has a standardized emergency number system, and these numbers are valid throughout the country, including Sendai:
- 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 public payphones and mobile phones.
2. Police Services in Sendai
The police in Sendai are part of the Miyagi Prefectural Police, which ensures public safety and handles crime, traffic accidents, and lost property.
Key Details:
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Main Police Station:
Sendai Higashi Police Station
Address: 1-3-1 Tsutsujigaoka, Miyagino-ku, Sendai
Phone: +81-22-231-7171 (non-emergency inquiries) -
Services Provided:
- Reporting crimes or suspicious activities
- Assistance with lost or stolen items (e.g., passports, wallets)
- Traffic accident reporting and investigation
- General safety advice for visitors
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Language Support:
- Police officers may have limited English proficiency, but interpreters can be arranged in some cases.
- The Japan Visitor Hotline (available 24/7 at +81-50-3816-2787) can assist with interpretation if needed.
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Procedure for Visitors:
- In case of an emergency, dial 110 and provide your location and a brief description of the issue.
- If you lose your passport, report it to the police and obtain a report for your embassy.
3. Fire and Rescue Services in Sendai
The Sendai City Fire Department handles fire emergencies, rescue operations, and ambulance services.
Key Details:
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Main Fire Station:
Sendai City Fire Department Headquarters
Address: 1-1-1 Omachi, Aoba-ku, Sendai
Phone: +81-22-223-1111 (non-emergency inquiries) -
Services Provided:
- Firefighting and fire prevention
- Rescue operations (e.g., during natural disasters or accidents)
- Ambulance services for medical emergencies
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Language Support:
- When calling 119, you can request an English-speaking operator.
- The operator may use a translation service to communicate with you.
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Procedure for Visitors:
- Dial 119 for fire or medical emergencies. Clearly state whether you need a fire truck, ambulance, or rescue team.
- Provide your location and describe the situation as clearly as possible.
4. Medical Emergency Services in Sendai
Sendai has a well-developed healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics equipped to handle emergencies. Ambulance services are free, but treatment costs apply.
Key Details:
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Emergency Hospitals in Sendai:
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Tohoku University Hospital
Address: 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai
Phone: +81-22-717-7000
Notes: A major hospital with advanced facilities and some English-speaking staff. -
Sendai City Hospital
Address: 3-1 Shimizu-koji, Wakabayashi-ku, Sendai
Phone: +81-22-266-7111
Notes: Offers emergency care and has interpreters available for foreign patients.
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Costs for Medical Services:
- Ambulance services are free of charge.
- Medical treatment costs depend on the services provided. Visitors without Japanese health insurance will need to pay the full amount upfront.
- Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical expenses.
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Language Support:
- Some hospitals have English-speaking staff or access to interpretation services.
- The Japan Medical Service Hotline (+81-3-5285-8181) provides 24/7 assistance in English, including referrals to medical facilities.
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Procedure for Visitors:
- In a medical emergency, dial 119 and request an ambulance.
- If you need non-emergency medical care, visit a hospital or clinic directly. Bring your passport and travel insurance details.
5. Unique Local Considerations in Sendai
Sendai is located in a region prone to earthquakes and tsunamis. Itโs important to be prepared for natural disasters.
Earthquake Preparedness:
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Emergency Alerts:
Japan has an advanced earthquake early warning system. Alerts are sent to mobile phones and broadcast on TV and radio. -
Evacuation Centers:
Sendai has designated evacuation centers, often located in schools or community centers. Look for signs labeled ้ฟ้ฃๆ (hinanjo). -
Disaster Preparedness Information:
The Sendai City website provides multilingual disaster preparedness guides.
Tsunami Risk:
- If you are near the coast and feel a strong earthquake, move to higher ground immediately. Follow evacuation signs and instructions from local authorities.
6. Additional Resources for Visitors
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Japan Visitor Hotline:
Phone: +81-50-3816-2787 (24/7, English available)
Services: General advice, emergency interpretation, and assistance. -
Sendai International Center:
Address: 3-7-1 Tsutsujigaoka, Miyagino-ku, Sendai
Phone: +81-22-265-2471
Services: Multilingual support and information for foreign residents and visitors. -
Embassies and Consulates:
If you lose your passport or need consular assistance, contact your countryโs embassy or consulate in Japan.
Summary
Sendaiโs emergency services are efficient and accessible, with systems in place to assist visitors and immigrants. Key points to remember:
- Dial 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies.
- Ambulance services are free, but medical treatment costs apply.
- Language support is available through hotlines and interpretation services.
- Be prepared for natural disasters, especially earthquakes and tsunamis.
By familiarizing yourself with these services, you can navigate emergencies in Sendai with confidence. Stay safe and enjoy your time in this beautiful city!