Yokohama

Emergency Numbers in Yokohama, Japan

In Japan, including Yokohama, emergency services are centralized and easy to access. Below is a list of the main emergency categories, their respective numbers, and detailed information on how to use these services.

1. Police (Crime, Theft, Accidents, and General Safety)

• Emergency Number: 110
• Cost: Free
• When to Call:
  • To report a crime (e.g., theft, assault, suspicious activity).
  • To report a traffic accident.
  • If you feel unsafe or need immediate police assistance.
• How to Use:
  • Dial 110 from any phone (landline, mobile, or public payphone).
  • State your location clearly. If you don’t speak Japanese, say “English, please” (or the name of your preferred language, e.g., “Chinese, please”).
  • Be prepared to describe the situation briefly.
• Cultural Considerations:
  • Japanese police are generally approachable and professional. However, they may ask detailed questions to understand the situation fully.
  • If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, it is still acceptable to call 110, and they will guide you.

2. Fire and Ambulance (Medical Emergencies, Fires, and Rescues)

• Emergency Number: 119
• Cost: Free for the call. Ambulance services are also free, but hospital treatment and transportation costs may apply.
• When to Call:
  • For medical emergencies requiring immediate attention (e.g., heart attack, severe injury).
  • To report a fire.
  • For rescue situations (e.g., someone trapped in a building or vehicle).
• How to Use:
  • Dial 119 from any phone.
  • When the operator answers, state whether you need a fire service (“Kaji desu” for fire) or an ambulance (“Kyūkyū desu” for ambulance).
  • If you don’t speak Japanese, say “English, please” or your preferred language.
  • Provide your location and a brief description of the emergency.
• Cultural Considerations:
  • Ambulances in Japan are well-equipped and staffed by trained paramedics. However, they will take you to the nearest hospital, which may not always have English-speaking staff.
  • It is customary to show gratitude to emergency responders, though tipping is not practiced in Japan.

3. Maritime Emergencies (Coastal or Water-Related Incidents)

• Emergency Number: 118
• Cost: Free
• When to Call:
  • For emergencies at sea, such as drowning, boat accidents, or suspicious maritime activity.
• How to Use:
  • Dial 118 from any phone.
  • Provide details of the incident and your location (e.g., the name of the beach or port).
• Cultural Considerations:
  • Yokohama is a port city, so maritime emergencies are taken seriously. The Japan Coast Guard is highly efficient in responding to such incidents.

4. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance (After-Hours or Non-Urgent Care)

• Yokohama Emergency Medical Information Center: 045-232-7111
• Cost: Free for the call. Medical consultation fees may apply if referred to a clinic or hospital.
• When to Call:
  • For non-urgent medical advice or to locate an open hospital/clinic outside regular hours.
• How to Use:
  • Dial the number and explain your situation. English-speaking operators may be available.
• Cultural Considerations:
  • Japanese medical facilities often require upfront payment. Carry cash or a credit card when visiting a clinic or hospital.

---

General Information for Using Emergency Services in Yokohama

Language Support

• Many emergency operators in Yokohama are trained to handle calls in English and other major languages. However, proficiency may vary depending on the time of day and the specific operator.
• If you don’t speak Japanese, start the call by saying “English, please” or the name of your preferred language. This will prompt the operator to connect you with someone who can assist in that language or use interpretation services.

How to Provide Your Location

• Japan uses a unique address system that can be confusing for visitors. When calling emergency services:
  • Provide landmarks, nearby buildings, or train stations if you don’t know the exact address.
  • If you have a smartphone, use GPS to provide your coordinates or show your location on a map.

Public Payphones

• Public payphones in Japan can be used to call emergency numbers for free. These phones are often green or gray and are located in train stations, convenience stores, and public areas.

Cultural Considerations

• Emergency services in Japan are highly efficient and professional. However, they may ask detailed questions to ensure they understand the situation fully. Be patient and provide as much information as possible.
• It is not customary to tip emergency responders, but a polite “Arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) is appreciated.

Important Note on Ambulance Use

• Ambulances in Japan are free, but they are intended for serious emergencies. For minor injuries or illnesses, it is better to visit a clinic or hospital directly. Abuse of ambulance services is frowned upon.

---

Additional Resources for Visitors and Immigrants in Yokohama

1. Yokohama City Call Center (General Inquiries)

   • Number: 045-664-2525
   • Languages: English and other languages available.
   • Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.
   • Purpose: For non-emergency inquiries about city services, including healthcare, transportation, and safety.

2. Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL)

   • Number: 03-5774-0992
   • Languages: English
   • Hours: 24/7
   • Purpose: For mental health support and counseling.

3. Embassy or Consulate

   • Keep the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan handy. They can assist in emergencies, such as lost passports or legal issues.

---

Summary of Emergency Numbers

| Service | Number | Languages | Cost | |-------------------------|------------|---------------------|----------| | Police | 110 | Japanese, English | Free | | Fire/Ambulance | 119 | Japanese, English | Free | | Maritime Emergencies | 118 | Japanese, English | Free | | Non-Emergency Medical | 045-232-7111 | Japanese, English | Free |

By keeping this information handy, you can navigate emergencies in Yokohama with confidence. Always prioritize safety and seek help when needed.