Japanese rescuers ask public not to move their shoes

Emergency responders in Kanazawa, Japan, have issued a polite but firm request to the public: please do not move the shoes left by medical personnel at the entrance during emergency calls. This seemingly small act of tidiness, while well-intentioned, can create significant delays in critical situations.

Firefighters explained that they strategically place their footwear to facilitate a swift exit. When carrying a patient on a stretcher, the team needs to move quickly out of the building without stopping. If their shoes are moved, it can disrupt this process, potentially causing delays of up to 30 seconds. This time can be crucial when every second counts in patient transport.

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We appreciate the kindness associated with straightening shoes. In emergencies, however, it is extremely helpful if people prepare the patient's My Number card or other identification documents instead.

Japanese etiquette typically involves removing shoes before entering a home, and hosts often orient guests' shoes towards the exit for easy wear. However, during a medical emergency, this custom can inadvertently hinder the rescuers' operations. The firefighters shared a video demonstrating how they position their shoes according to their roles during an intervention.

While acknowledging the kindness behind the gesture of straightening shoes, responders emphasize that in urgent situations, preparing patient identification documents, such as a My Number card, is far more helpful. The appeal, shared on Instagram, has garnered significant attention, with many commenters expressing surprise and vowing to remember this detail for future emergencies.

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From our experience, it can mean a loss of about 30 seconds.