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Winter Emergency in Japan: Your Essential Guide to Calling 119 & 110 with English Support
The thought of a critical emergency in a foreign country is daunting, especially when a language barrier is involved. In Japan’s beautiful, but sometimes challenging, winter landscape, this concern can be amplified. You’re not alone in worrying about how to communicate when seconds count.
This comprehensive guide is designed to remove that friction. We’ll provide clear, actionable steps on how to call Japan’s emergency services—119 for fire and ambulance, and 110 for police—with a strong focus on overcoming language barriers. You’ll learn what to say, what information to have ready, and how to navigate specific winter hazards, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.
Table of Contents
- The Challenge: Communicating in Crisis
- Understanding Japan’s Emergency Numbers: 119 & 110
- How to Call 119 (Fire and Ambulance) in Japan
- How to Call 110 (Police) in Japan
- Winter-Specific Emergencies and What to Report
- Quick Reference Card for Emergencies in Japan
- Common Mistakes to Avoid During an Emergency Call
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Challenge: Communicating in Crisis
For many international visitors, the primary concern in an emergency is the language barrier. The fear of not being able to clearly explain a critical situation to a Japanese operator is real. Beyond language, uncertainty about the correct emergency number or protocol in Japan can lead to hesitation when quick action is essential.
Winter in Japan introduces specific hazards, from icy sidewalks to heavy snowfall in mountainous regions. Worry about slips and falls, hypothermia, or even carbon monoxide poisoning from heating appliances adds another layer of complexity. Knowing how to react effectively and convey precise information in these scenarios is crucial for your safety and that of those around you.
Understanding Japan’s Emergency Numbers: 119 & 110
Japan utilizes a clear, two-number system for emergencies. Familiarizing yourself with these distinct numbers is the first step towards preparedness.
🚨 Emergency Contacts
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance/Fire | 119 |
All numbers are free and work from any phone (mobile, landline, payphone).
Both 119 and 110 operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, nationwide. Remember these are for genuine emergencies only. Misuse can divert critical resources.
🎯 Local Pro-Tip: Save both 119 and 110 to your phone’s contacts under a clear label like “Japan Emergency” for quick access without fumbling. Also, consider setting up your phone’s SOS feature, which can automatically call emergency services and share your location.
How to Call 119 (Fire and Ambulance) in Japan
The 119 number is your lifeline for any medical emergency or fire incident. When you dial, the operator will first try to determine if it’s a fire or a medical situation.
Step-by-Step: Calling 119
- Dial 119: From any phone in Japan.
- State Your Emergency Type: The operator will likely ask “Kaji desu ka?” (Is it a fire?) or “Kyūkyū desu ka?” (Is it an ambulance emergency?). Clearly state your need.
🇯🇵 Point & Speak
Show this section to staff if you’re stuck. They can read the Japanese.
English: Fire!
火事です！
(Kaji desu!)
English: Ambulance, please! (Medical emergency)
救急です！
(Kyūkyū desu!)
- Request English Support Immediately: If you cannot speak Japanese, clearly and calmly state:
🇯🇵 Point & Speak (Language Support)
English: English, please.
英語をお願いします。
(Eigo o onegai shimasu.)
English: I need an interpreter.
通訳をお願いします。
(Tsūyaku o onegai shimasu.)
The operator will connect you to an interpreter or an English-speaking dispatcher. This may take a moment, so be patient.
- Provide Your Exact Location: This is the most critical piece of information.
- Address: “Jūsho wa ~ desu.” (住所は〜です。)
- Landmarks: “～ no chikaku desu.” (〜の近くです。) (e.g., “hotel entrance,” “near the convenience store,” “next to the train station”).
- Building Name/Floor: If applicable.
- GPS Coordinates: Your smartphone can usually provide these.
- For winter accidents: Be specific about the ski resort, trail name, or section if in a snowy, remote area.
- Describe the Emergency: What happened? Who is involved? Are there injuries? How many people need help?
🇯🇵 Point & Speak (Describing Condition)
English: I am injured.
怪我をしました。
(Kega o shimashita.)
- Provide Your Name and Contact Number: The operator may need to call you back for clarification.
- Do Not Hang Up: Wait for the operator to instruct you to end the call. They may provide instructions or ask further questions.
How to Call 110 (Police) in Japan
Dial 110 for police assistance in cases of crime, traffic accidents, or any situation requiring law enforcement intervention.
Step-by-Step: Calling 110
- Dial 110: From any phone in Japan.
- State Your Emergency Type: The operator will ask “Jiken desu ka, jiko desu ka?” (Is it a crime or an accident?). State your need clearly.
🇯🇵 Point & Speak
Show this section to staff if you’re stuck. They can read the Japanese.
English: Police, please!
警察をお願いします！
(Keisatsu o onegai shimasu!)
- Request English Support Immediately: As with 119, state “Eigo o onegai shimasu” (English, please) or “Tsūyaku o onegai shimasu” (I need an interpreter) calmly.
- Provide Your Exact Location: Again, be as precise as possible. Address, landmarks, building name, floor, or GPS coordinates.
- Describe the Incident:
- What happened (e.g., “Theft,” “Road accident,” “Assault”).
- When did it happen?
- Who is involved (descriptions of people, vehicles).
- Are there any injuries?
- Provide Your Name and Contact Number.
- Do Not Hang Up: Wait for instructions.
Winter-Specific Emergencies and What to Report
Japan’s winter can be beautiful, but it also brings unique risks. Be prepared to describe these situations to emergency services.
Slips and Falls on Ice/Snow
What to report: “Kyūkyū desu! Kega o shimashita.” (Ambulance! I am injured.) Specify the location (e.g., “On the sidewalk in front of [building name], near [intersection]”). Describe the injury: “Ashimoto ga subette korobimashita.” (My foot slipped and I fell.)
Regions: Common in Hokkaido, Tohoku, and mountainous areas, but can occur anywhere with freezing temperatures.
Hypothermia and Frostbite
What to report: “Kyūkyū desu! Hito ga samesugi desu.” (Ambulance! A person is too cold.) Describe symptoms: shivering, confusion, numbness, pale skin. Specify location and if the person has been exposed to cold for a long time.
Regions: High-risk in mountainous regions, ski resorts, or if stranded outdoors in cold weather.
Avalanches (Ski Areas/Backcountry)
What to report: “Kyūkyū desu! Nadare jiko desu.” (Ambulance! Avalanche accident.) Provide exact location if possible (ski resort name, specific run, GPS coordinates if backcountry). State number of people involved and if anyone is buried. Be ready to describe conditions.
Regions: Designated ski areas, and especially dangerous in backcountry areas of Hokkaido, Tohoku, and the Japan Alps.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning
What to report: “Kyūkyū desu! Gasu mori kamo shiremasen.” (Ambulance! There might be a gas leak.) Or “気分が悪いです。” (Kibun ga warui desu – I feel unwell.) Report symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and if there are multiple people feeling unwell indoors. Mention if a kerosene heater or similar appliance is in use.
Regions: Can occur anywhere indoors with poorly ventilated heating appliances. Often happens in older accommodations or homes.
🎯 Local Pro-Tip: Always know your precise location. Before you leave your accommodation, write down its full address and a nearby landmark. In remote areas or ski resorts, take a photo of trail maps or lift names for reference. Your phone’s GPS is a powerful tool, use it.
Quick Reference Card for Emergencies in Japan
Screenshot or print this section for easy access. This summary consolidates the most crucial information.
📋 Quick Reference Card: Japan Emergency Call
Screenshot or print this section for easy access:
- ✅ Ambulance/Fire: Dial 119
- ✅ Police: Dial 110
- ✅ First Words (Language): “Eigo o onegai shimasu.” (English, please.)
- ✅ Critical Info:
- Exact Location: Address, building name, floor, nearby landmarks, GPS.
- Nature of Emergency: What happened (e.g., “Kaji desu!” – Fire!, “Kyūkyū desu!” – Ambulance!, “Kega o shimashita.” – Injured.).
- Your Name & Phone Number.
- ✅ DO NOT HANG UP until instructed.
- ✅ Stay Calm & Speak Clearly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During an Emergency Call
Even with preparation, stress can lead to errors. Be aware of these common pitfalls:
- Hanging Up Early: Never disconnect until the operator explicitly tells you to. They may need to gather more information or provide instructions while help is en route.
- Lack of Location Information: Guessing your location or being vague is the biggest hindrance to emergency response. Always have an address, cross-street, or significant landmark ready. GPS coordinates from your phone can be invaluable.
- Panicking and Shouting: While natural, panic can make communication harder, especially through an interpreter. Speak calmly and clearly, even if briefly, to request language support.
- Calling Non-Emergency for Emergencies: Do not call your embassy or a hotel concierge before calling 119 or 110 for a critical, life-threatening situation. These numbers are for direct and immediate help.
- Underestimating Winter Hazards: Don’t dismiss symptoms of hypothermia or ignore warning signs of carbon monoxide. Act quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to call 119 or 110 in Japan?
Yes, calls to 119 (fire/ambulance) and 110 (police) in Japan are entirely free of charge from any phone, including mobile phones, landlines, and public payphones. You do not need coins or a phone card for public phones when dialing these emergency numbers.
Do 119 and 110 services in Japan have English speakers or interpreters?
Many dispatch centers for 119 and 110 in Japan have access to multilingual support or interpreter services, including English. It’s crucial to immediately state “Eigo o onegai shimasu” (English, please) or “Tsūyaku o onegai shimasu” (I need an interpreter) at the beginning of your call. Be aware that availability may vary by region and time, but efforts will be made to connect you.
What if I don’t know my exact address in an emergency?
If you don’t know the exact address, provide as much detail as possible. Mention nearby landmarks (e.g., “near [convenience store name],” “next to [train station],” “in front of [hotel name]”). Give street names if you see them. Your smartphone’s GPS function can often provide precise coordinates, which are very helpful to dispatchers. Describe unique visual cues like “red building with a green roof” or “near a large park.”
Can I call 119 for a minor injury or just severe emergencies?
119 is for genuine emergencies where immediate medical attention is required, or a fire is present. While it’s best to err on the side of caution in serious situations, for minor injuries or non-urgent medical needs (e.g., a cold, a sprain that doesn’t prevent walking), it’s more appropriate to seek out a local clinic or hospital directly. Misuse of emergency services can delay aid for critical cases.
What are common winter emergencies I should be aware of in Japan?
Common winter emergencies in Japan include slips and falls due to ice and snow, particularly in northern and mountainous regions. Hypothermia and frostbite can occur from prolonged exposure to cold. Avalanches are a risk in designated ski areas and backcountry. Additionally, carbon monoxide poisoning can happen indoors from poorly ventilated heaters. Always be aware of your surroundings and heating methods.
Conclusion
Navigating an emergency in a foreign country can be stressful, but with the right information, you can act effectively. Understanding Japan’s emergency numbers, knowing how to request language support, and being prepared with key information will significantly reduce friction during critical moments.
Stay safe this winter in Japan. By taking a few moments now to internalize these steps, you empower yourself with the confidence to handle unexpected challenges. Your preparedness not only protects you but also allows Japan’s efficient emergency services to assist you swiftly.
For more detailed safety information, you may wish to visit the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) – Safety Tips. For specific information on police and fire services, refer to the Metropolitan Police Department (English) – Emergency Call 110 and Tokyo Fire Department (English) – How to Call 119.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information for emergency situations in Japan. While we strive for accuracy, protocols may change, and individual circumstances vary. This information is not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. Always prioritize your safety and follow the instructions of emergency personnel. In a life-threatening situation, dial 119 or 110 immediately.
