Yokohama

1. Medical Emergencies

Accessing Medical Assistance

• Emergency Number: Dial 119 for an ambulance (same number as for fire services).
• Language Support: Operators may not always speak English fluently. If you don’t speak Japanese, say “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” (Can you speak English?) or ask someone nearby for help.
• Procedure:
  1. Call 119 and state your emergency.
  2. Provide your location clearly. Use landmarks or nearby buildings if you’re unsure of the address.
  3. Describe the condition of the patient (e.g., unconscious, bleeding, difficulty breathing).
  4. Wait for the ambulance to arrive. Ambulances are free of charge in Japan.

Costs

• Ambulance rides are free, but you will be charged for medical treatment at the hospital.
• Medical costs vary depending on the treatment and whether you have health insurance:
  • Without insurance: Expect to pay the full cost, which can be expensive.
  • With Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI): You’ll pay 30% of the total cost.
  • Travel Insurance: If you have international travel insurance, keep all receipts for reimbursement.

Hospitals and Clinics

• Many hospitals in Yokohama have international patient services. Some recommended facilities include:
  • Yokohama City University Hospital: Known for its multilingual support.
  • Yokohama Rosai Hospital: Offers emergency care and has English-speaking staff.
• For non-emergency medical needs, you can visit clinics. Use the Japan Medical Service Accreditation for International Patients (JMIP) website to find English-speaking doctors.

Cultural Considerations

• Japanese hospitals may require upfront payment for services, even in emergencies.
• Bring your ID, insurance card, and cash or a credit card.
• Be patient and polite, as medical staff may not speak fluent English.

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2. Fire Services

Accessing Fire Assistance

• Emergency Number: Dial 119 for fire emergencies.
• Procedure:
  1. Call 119 and state “Kaji desu” (There’s a fire) or “Fire” in English.
  2. Provide your location and describe the situation.
  3. Evacuate the area and wait for firefighters to arrive.

Costs

• Firefighting services are free of charge.

Cultural Considerations

• Fire safety is taken very seriously in Japan. Many buildings have fire alarms and extinguishers, and residents are trained in fire drills.
• If you live in Yokohama, familiarize yourself with the nearest evacuation routes and fire stations.

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3. Police Assistance

Accessing Police Services

• Emergency Number: Dial 110 for police assistance.
• Procedure:
  1. Call 110 and state your emergency. Say “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” if you need English assistance.
  2. Provide your location and describe the situation (e.g., theft, assault, lost property).
  3. Follow the instructions given by the operator.

Costs

• Police services are free of charge.

Key Services

• Koban (Police Boxes): Small police stations located throughout Yokohama. You can visit a koban for non-emergency assistance, such as reporting lost items or asking for directions.
• Lost and Found: Japan has an excellent lost-and-found system. If you lose something, report it to the nearest koban.

Cultural Considerations

• Japanese police are known for their thoroughness. Be prepared to answer detailed questions.
• Always carry identification (passport or residence card) as it may be requested.

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4. Disaster Response

Yokohama, like much of Japan, is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis. The city has a robust disaster response system.

Accessing Disaster Assistance

• Emergency Numbers:
  • Dial 171 for the Disaster Emergency Message Dial service to check on loved ones.
  • Dial 119 for immediate assistance if injured or trapped.
• Yokohama Disaster Preparedness App: Download the Yokohama Safety App (available in English) for real-time updates and evacuation information.

Evacuation Procedures

• Familiarize yourself with the nearest evacuation centers (避難所, hinanjo). These are often schools or community centers.
• Follow instructions from local authorities, who will broadcast information via loudspeakers, TV, and radio.

Costs

• Disaster response services, including rescue and shelter, are free of charge.

Cultural Considerations

• Earthquake drills are common in schools and workplaces. Participate if you have the opportunity.
• Keep an emergency kit (water, food, flashlight, first aid supplies) at home.
• Respect the orderly nature of Japanese disaster response. People queue for supplies and follow instructions calmly.

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Key Emergency Numbers in Yokohama

| Service | Number | Notes | |------------------------|--------|-----------------------------------------| | Ambulance/Fire | 119| Free; for medical and fire emergencies. | | Police | 110| Free; for crimes or accidents. | | Disaster Message Dial | 171| Check on loved ones during disasters. |

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General Tips for Emergency Situations

1. Language Barriers: If you don’t speak Japanese, use simple English or have a translation app ready (e.g., Google Translate).
2. Stay Calm: Japanese emergency responders are highly trained and efficient. Remaining calm will help them assist you more effectively.
3. Know Your Address: Always carry a card with your address in Japanese, especially if you’re new to the city.
4. Emergency Apps: Download apps like Safety Tips (by the Japan Tourism Agency) for alerts and guidance in English.

By understanding these procedures and cultural nuances, you’ll be better prepared to handle emergencies in Yokohama. Stay safe!