Police Consultation Day (Keisatsu Sōdan no Hi)

What Is Police Consultation Day?

Every year on September 11th, Japan observes "Police Consultation Day" (Keisatsu Sōdan no Hi). The date was chosen by the National Police Agency to highlight the nationwide police consultation hotline, "#9110." This number exists for situations that aren't emergencies — stalking, scams, neighbor disputes, and other everyday worries — but still warrant police involvement. The day raises awareness of this resource as a vital safety net for crime prevention and public peace of mind.

110 vs. #9110: Two Numbers, Two Purposes

For police services to function at their best, it's essential that the public know which number to call.

• Emergencies (110) vs. Consultations (#9110): 110 is the emergency line, reserved for crimes or accidents happening right now. #9110 connects callers to trained consultants who can address ongoing concerns about personal safety. Keeping these two lines separate ensures emergency responders arrive as fast as possible, while also giving people a dedicated channel to resolve everyday worries.
• Early Consultation Helps Prevent Crime: Data shows that many serious crimes are preceded by smaller warning-sign incidents. Seeking expert advice early is one of the most effective ways to head off a situation before it escalates.

The Science of Feeling Safe

Having a sense of security is a biological foundation for clear thinking.

• Lower Cortisol, Sharper Thinking: Ongoing anxiety triggers the release of cortisol, a stress hormone that impairs the prefrontal cortex — the brain region responsible for logical thinking. Reaching out to the right support service and learning that "something can be done" frees the brain from anxiety and restores clear decision-making.
• The Comfort of Institutional Support: Knowing that a public institution like the police has your back can help the brain release serotonin, the neurotransmitter linked to feelings of well-being and stability. This, in turn, supports calmer judgment and better day-to-day functioning.

Facts Worth Knowing About Police Consultations

• How #9110 Works: Calls are routed to the consultation desk of the prefectural police headquarters covering the caller's location. Consultations can be anonymous, and staff can refer callers to specialized departments, bar associations, or legal aid services as needed — functioning much like a concierge for navigating support resources.
• Adapting to Cyber Issues: With a sharp rise in online harassment and phishing scams, consultation services have evolved to offer practical guidance on preserving digital evidence and pursuing legal remedies.
• The Role of Reference Numbers: A consultation may be given a reference number. If a formal police report is filed later, this record of prior consultations can serve as useful background, helping investigators respond more quickly.
• Designed to Lower the Barrier: Unlike the intimidating image police consultations may once have had, today's services incorporate counseling-style approaches designed to put callers at ease and help them communicate clearly.
• Feeding Local Safety Information: Information gathered through #9110, once anonymized, can feed into local "crime prevention maps." In this way, individual consultations help raise the level of safety for an entire community.

Ideas for Police Consultation Day

• Save "#9110" in your phone around September 11th. Having that mental shortcut ready can prevent panic and is one of the most practical ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
• Try putting your worries into words. Write down anything that's been troubling you or someone close to you lately. Turning a vague unease into a concrete issue is the first logical step toward solving it.
• Brush up on safety knowledge — research the latest scam tactics or online safety tips. Staying informed is like building an "immune system" against crime.
• Make space to notice when something seems off with the people around you. Encouraging a neighbor or friend to seek help early can be one of the kindest things you ever do for them.

A Quiet Source of Support Is Always Within Reach

September 11th is a reminder that you don't have to carry your worries alone — it's okay to reach out for help. Police consultation services exist as a "shield of wisdom," offered before things get worse. If the past few months of a new school or work year have left you feeling a little uneasy, today is a good day to bring that worry into the light and welcome some outside perspective. Once a problem becomes clear and a path forward appears, you may find your mind feels remarkably lighter — ready to greet the new season with steadier steps and a brighter outlook.