Contact Information and Resources
When calling in an emergency, give landmarks or names of nearby businesses, etc. if unsure of your location.
If you call from a payphone/landline, your location can be traced by emergency services.
Emergency Contacts
Police
110
Fire
119
Ambulance
119
Coastguard
118
Recommended Apps
Windy
This is a good app for checking the waves if you want to ride the ferry
Yahoo japan
This app will send you notices about any major changes in the weather (Japanese only)
Yurekuru
This app provides detailed updates/warnings for earthquakes in the area
Nerve
This app provides early warnings about any emergencies (eg. missiles, earthquakes, etc.)
Japan Meteorolgical Association: provides live data for disasters, weather, and risk. https://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html
Important tips to remember
Knowing where to evacuate and having supplies increases safety / comfort.
Always remain as calm as possible.
Prioritize your own safety.
If attempting to aid or rescue others, always request assistance if possible.
After you are safe, contact your CO, supervisor, Block Leaders and close friends in the event of a disaster so they know you are safe.
Disaster preparedness and response
This is a very important topic for which the Government of Tokyo has prepared excellent resources.
Please go to https://www.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/english/guide/bosai/index.html and download the guide. It offers an in-depth look at how to prepare, how to respond during and after an event, how to perform first aid, and what to expect. The information is clearly written in English and there are good visual guides.
What to do before a disaster
Memorize emergency phone numbers for Japan
See contact info above.
Register with your embassy
If you have any questions on how to register, search for your embassy here.
Americans can register via STEP.
New Zealanders can register via SafeTravel.
Canadians can register here.
Map of local evacuation sites
Use Google Chrome to access your city’s website and you can easily translate the webpage into English for ease of navigation.
Your town hall or prefectural government may offer materials on disaster risk and preparedness specific to your area as well. If you need help finding them, ask your PA, supervisor, or contracting organization.
Read about disaster preparedness
See Below
Prepare your home
Japan is prone to frequent earthquakes and tsunamis depending on where you live. Many of them are harmless, but in the event of a serious disaster you may need to leave an area quickly, and having an emergency kit ready will help with this.
This website provides a good list of what to prepare.
Get Additional Information
Ask your PA and fellow JETs for help finding information specific to your prefecture.
Line
Check if your city has a Line Group you can join. You will often receive useful information about any important health and safety issues happening in your area.
