How to Use 110 and 119
Last UpdateApril 15, 2010
Dial 110
In the event of a crime or accident, dial 110. This service is available 24 hours a day, free of charge, from any location nationwide. When calling from a grey public telephone, simply lift the receiver to dial (on green public phones, push the red "Emergency" button before dialing). If you place a call from a mobile phone, you may receive a return call from a police officer after your initial call has ended, so be sure to keep your phone turned on.
Reporting an Incident
Stay calm and clearly tell the call center whether you are calling about an accident or crime. Learn and practice enough Japanese so that in an emergency, you will be able to state your address or location and to describe nearby landmarks in Japanese.
Dial 119
To call a fire truck to a fire, or an ambulance to a sudden medical emergency or serious injury, dial 119. This service is available 24 hours a day, free of charge. The instructions for calling from a public phone and mobile phone are the same as those for dialing 110.
Reporting an Incident
Stay calm and clearly tell the call center whether you are calling about a fire or medical emergency. Learn and practice enough Japanese so that in an emergency, you will be able to state your address or location and to describe nearby landmarks in Japanese.
