Inside the Mountain Rescue Frontline: A Reporter’s Firsthand Experience of the Terror of Being Buried Alive in an Avalanche — As Backcountry Accidents Surge in Hokkaido, Rescue Teams Battle Extreme Conditions

80% Are Foreigners: Overcoming the Language Barrier

A serious concern is that about 80% of those rescued are foreign nationals. Police say 70% of rescued individuals entered the mountains inadequately prepared, and this tendency is especially pronounced among foreign visitors.

Language barriers present a major challenge during rescue operations. To address this, the rescue team has created handmade tools to improve communication.

One example is a “translation card,” which includes phrases necessary for rescue, such as:
“Do you have any pain?”

In winter mountains, smartphone batteries often die or signals become unavailable. These analog tools ensure reliable communication even in such conditions. Victims can simply point to answers, even if they are not fully conscious.