A Day to Remember the 119 Emergency Number

Today, and November 9th annually, is 119 Day (119番の日) in Japan. A commemorative day established in 1987 by the Fire and Disaster Agency to mark the 40th anniversary of Japan's first fire service and to promote greater awareness of fire prevention and disaster preparedness. 

It will come as no surprise that the date was chosen because November 11th is made up of the digits - 119 - for Japan's emergency telephone number for reporting fires and requesting ambulance assistance. When an emergency occurs, every second matters, and a prompt, accurate 119 call can help save lives. Public awareness campaigns held around this date encourage people to learn how and when to use the emergency number correctly.

The day also serves as a reminder of the vital role played by firefighters, paramedics, and rescue workers. Many people, myself included, have enormous respect for firefighters. It takes a special kind of person to run towards danger when everyone else is trying to get away from it. Whether responding to fires, traffic accidents, natural disasters, or medical emergencies, firefighters and rescue crews provide an essential service to their communities.

119 Day is an opportunity to recognize their dedication, courage, and commitment to protecting others. The day also marks the start of Japan's Autumn National Fire Prevention Campaign.