Prepare the location before it is needed

In Japan, 119 is used for fire and ambulance emergencies. Prepare the Japanese address of your home, workplace and other places where you spend time. Include the building name, room or floor and a recognizable nearby landmark. A location description that works for a delivery driver may still need clarification when access is difficult.

Keep the address in a form you can read aloud or show to another person. If you live with children or someone who may have difficulty communicating, explain where the information is stored. Learn how to display your location on your phone, but keep a written address as well in case the device is unavailable.

Give clear information and follow instructions

When calling about an emergency, explain whether the problem concerns a fire or an ambulance and state the location clearly. Describe what has happened and answer the dispatcher’s questions. If you need a particular language, say so. Stay on the line and follow the instructions given for the situation rather than attempting to give a complete history all at once.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency describes a three-way telephone-interpretation arrangement used by participating fire departments for calls and emergency scenes. Availability depends on the local arrangements and circumstances. Do not delay a necessary emergency call while searching for a service you assume must operate identically everywhere.

Make access easier when it is safe

If the dispatcher asks for additional location details, explain the entrance, gate or other access issue. Have another person meet responders only when it is safe and consistent with the dispatcher’s instructions. Do not place yourself or someone else in danger to collect paperwork, take photographs or open a route.

For household preparation, keep an accessible list of medicines, allergies and a contact person if appropriate. Share necessary information with responders while protecting unrelated private details. This guide concerns communication and preparation, not medical assessment or treatment. In an immediate emergency, contact emergency services and follow their directions. After any incident, update your address sheet and access information if something made the location difficult to find. A small correction made afterwards can be valuable when the same building or household needs help again.