6 Numbers to Call in case of Emergency in Japan

Do you have any plans of living in Japan? Known for its inviting ancient culture, beautiful landscapes, enjoyable four-seasons weather with the most delicious signature food in the country “ramen and sushi”. Japan is absolutely clean and safe, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world but you should always remember that Japan is very prone to disasters such as earthquakes, tsunami and typhoon, so it is very vital to be prepared at all times.

Here are some useful information that you must know when you live in Japan.

Japanese Emergency Numbers

If you encounter any emergencies like an accident, fire, typhoon, earthquake or crimes, stay calm, don’t panic instead call for help. For foreigners, English speaking operator is available 24 hours a day.

1. Police assistance 110 when you call from your mobile phone, the police officers already knew your place because of your GPS. They can trace you right away.
2. Fire and Ambulance 119 ambulance services in Japan are free of charge since you’re paying the tax for it.
3. Sea Rescue Emergency 118 when you want the assistance of the Coast Guard.
4. Foreign-Language Human Rights Hotline: 0570-090911
5. Disaster Emergency Message Dial 171 check this link on how to use this https://www.ntt-east.co.jp/en/
6. Tell Community Counseling Service TCCS Mental Health Service 03-4550-1146 when you are having depression, anxiety attacks or someone who’s very suicidal. Call them right away before it’s too late.

EARTHQUAKE

The earthquake in Japan is powerful and scary. I experienced this last year in Miyazaki City. It was a magnitude 6. I didn’t know what to do. I just remembered that my husband kept some black survival kit in the house full of stuff. You just need to bring it for emergency purposes. After that incident, he told me about everything that almost all people in Japan have their own survival kit with first aid, a bottled of water, instant food that’s enough for the family, a flashlight, helmets, extra battery etc. So I learned! Now make sure that the interior of your house is suitable for an earthquake environment. For example, don’t put heavy objects like a chandelier or a photo frame in places where they could easily fall during an earthquake. It might cause an injury. You should also remember some designated evacuation areas in your city.

To avoid fire after an earthquake, please do turn off the stove in your kitchen as well as the gas valve. Check your mobile phones for the news so you can be aware of the possible tsunami and landslides.

Medical & Health Information

If you’re planning to go to any Japanese Hospitals in Japan, make sure to bring your health insurance card to medical facilities. For you to pay only a precise percentage of your medical expenses. If you do not present your health insurance card at the hospital, you will be required to pay all the cost in full, which is very expensive. Another thing, please bring someone who can speak Japanese fluently since most of their medical staff don’t know how to speak English. In my case, I always bring my husband to translate everything to the doctor especially explaining the symptoms that I’m experiencing. Before I tend to explain myself in English while communicating with their staff and to the doctors but It was so hard that they almost get annoyed at you of not speaking the Japanese Language. I cried so many times that I wanted to go back to my home country. Studying Nihonggo is really a must while living in Japan, so you’ll live a peaceful life here.

NOISE IN JAPAN

Being noisy in Japan can cause trouble with your neighbours and all the people around you. Be careful not to make a loud noise in your daily life in general specifically while riding on a bus or train. Also, avoid loud voice while chatting with friends, most Japanese people easily get upset when you’re too loud.
Be careful of the sounds of your musical instruments such as piano or guitar. Have some respect and try to minimize your voice wherever you go. Noises that are too loud and annoying are a Big No-No in Japan.

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