Tokyo

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Emergency Communication

Guidance on how to make emergency calls and key helpline numbers for police, fire, and medical assistance.

Sections

1. Emergency Hotlines in Tokyo

Japan has a well-structured emergency response system. Here are the key emergency numbers you need to know:

  • Police (for crimes, accidents, or lost items):
    Dial 110

    • Available 24/7.
    • Free of charge.
    • Basic English support is available, but itโ€™s better to speak slowly and clearly.

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

    • Available 24/7.
    • Free of charge.
    • Multilingual support is available (see below for details).

  • Japan Coast Guard (for maritime emergencies):
    Dial 118

    • Available 24/7.
    • English support is limited, so try to communicate clearly.

2. Multilingual Support During Emergencies

Tokyo is a global city, and the government has taken steps to ensure that non-Japanese speakers can access emergency services. Hereโ€™s how you can get multilingual support:

Emergency Interpretation Services

  • When you call 119 (fire/ambulance), operators can connect you to an interpreter for assistance in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese.
  • For 110 (police), English-speaking operators are available, but interpretation services may be more limited compared to 119.

Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL):

  • Phone: 03-5774-0992
  • A free, confidential, and English-speaking helpline for mental health crises or emotional support.
  • Available daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Japan Visitor Hotline (by JNTO):

  • Phone: 050-3816-2787
  • Available 24/7.
  • Provides assistance in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
  • Can help with general inquiries, emergency guidance, and disaster information.

3. Specific Procedures to Follow in Emergencies

When Calling 110 or 119:

  1. State your location clearly:

    • Provide landmarks, nearby train stations, or your address.
    • If youโ€™re unsure of your location, look for street signs or ask someone nearby for help.

  2. Describe the emergency:

    • Be concise but specific (e.g., โ€œThere is a fire,โ€ โ€œI need an ambulance,โ€ or โ€œI was robbedโ€).

  3. Stay on the line:

    • The operator may ask follow-up questions or provide instructions.

Medical Emergencies:

  • If you need an ambulance, call 119 and say โ€œKyลซkyลซsha onegai shimasuโ€ (I need an ambulance).
  • If youโ€™re taken to a hospital, note that not all hospitals in Tokyo have English-speaking staff. Bring a translation app or phrasebook if possible.

Natural Disasters (Earthquakes, Typhoons, etc.):

  • Tokyo is prone to earthquakes and typhoons. In such cases:
    • Follow instructions from local authorities.
    • Use the NHK World Japan app or website for real-time updates in English.
    • Evacuate to designated shelters if necessary (look for signs labeled โ€œ้ฟ้›ฃๆ‰€โ€ or โ€œhinanjoโ€).

4. Apps and Tools for Emergency Alerts

Tokyo has several apps and tools to help residents and visitors stay informed during emergencies:

Yurekuru Call (Earthquake Early Warning App):

  • Provides real-time earthquake alerts.
  • Available in English and other languages.
  • Free to download on iOS and Android.

NHK World Japan App:

  • Offers news and emergency updates in English.
  • Includes disaster preparedness tips and live alerts.

Safety Tips App (by JNTO):

  • Provides multilingual emergency alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and other disasters.
  • Includes evacuation information and safety tips.
  • Free to download on iOS and Android.

LINE App:

  • Widely used in Japan for communication.
  • During emergencies, local governments may send alerts via LINE.

5. Potential Costs

  • Emergency Calls:

    • Dialing 110, 119, or 118 is free of charge.

  • Ambulance Services:

    • Ambulance transport is free, but you will be charged for medical treatment at the hospital.
    • Medical costs can be high, so ensure you have travel insurance or health insurance.

  • Hospital Visits:

    • Payment is required upfront unless you have Japanese health insurance.
    • Credit cards are not always accepted, so carry cash.

6. Practical and Cultural Considerations

Language Barriers:

  • While Tokyo is foreigner-friendly, not all emergency responders or hospital staff speak English.
  • Use translation apps like Google Translate or Pocketalk to bridge the gap.

Cultural Norms:

  • Japanese people are generally calm and composed during emergencies. Follow their lead and avoid panicking.
  • Bowing is a common gesture of gratitude, even in emergencies.

Emergency Preparedness:

  • Keep a small emergency kit with essentials like water, snacks, a flashlight, and a portable phone charger.
  • Familiarize yourself with the nearest evacuation shelters (hinanjo).

Disaster Drills:

  • Tokyo frequently conducts disaster drills. If youโ€™re staying long-term, consider participating to learn how to respond effectively.

7. Additional Resources

By familiarizing yourself with these resources and procedures, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle emergencies in Tokyo. Stay safe and enjoy your time in this vibrant city!