Japanese maids become Akihabara fire chiefs for a day

A group of fire fighters and maids standing outside the Radio Kaikan building

Two maids took temporary charge of Kanda Fire Station in Akihabara on February 28th 2025.

Hitomi, a 20 year veteran of the Akihabara maid café scene, and Chimu, a highly regarded “super premium” maid, were awarded the honorary title of Fire Chief at Kanda Fire Station for the day.

Two maids being awarded certificates by fire fighters — Both maids received a certificate declaring them to be a Fire Chief

Kanda Fire Station is just a short 5 minute walk from JR Akihabara Station and is responsible for fire fighting in the Akihabara area.

Both maids hail from the well known “At Home Café”, which first opened in Akihabara back in 2024.

This unique appointment took place on Friday, February 28th, and was intended to help promote the “2025 Spring National Fire Prevention Campaign”, which will run from March 1st to 7th.

The occasion was marked by a comprehensive fire drill held at the Akihabara Radio Kaikan, a landmark building in the heart of the district.

As part of the fire prevention campaign, the drill aimed to raise awareness and preparedness among the local community.

Hitomi and Chimu assumed their roles as honorary fire chiefs and took command of the exercise.

A maid standing in a ladder truck — Hitomi took part in a fire drill while aboard a ladder truck

Hitomi’s involvement included a dramatic demonstration of rescue operations.

She ascended a ladder truck, directing rescue personnel as they simulated an emergency escape from the building’s rooftop.

Meanwhile, on the ground, Chimu played a vital role in coordinating the exercise from the command center.

Her responsibilities included providing logistical support and ensuring seamless communication between the various teams involved.

The drill culminated with Chimu instructing firefighters to spray water at the same time, to demonstrate the collective effort and synchronised teamwork required to extinguish a fire.

Following the simulated rescue and firefighting operations, participants, including Hitomi and Chimu, engaged in hands-on firefighting training using water extinguishers.

Two maid using fire extinguishers — Hitomi and Chimu both tried their hand at using fire extinguishers

This practical experience allowed them to gain firsthand knowledge of fire suppression techniques and the challenges faced by firefighters

Despite initial difficulties in handling the unfamiliar equipment, they successfully extinguished the simulated fire with the guidance and support of professional firefighters.

Hitomi, reflecting on her experience, emphasized the renewed sense of responsibility she felt towards fire prevention. “Participating in a fire drill as the fire chief for one day and experiencing it first-hand has given me a renewed awareness of the importance of fire prevention” she stated.

A maid talking into a microphone in Akihabara — The maids took part in the first drill to raise awareness of fire safety

She also expressed admiration for the firefighters’ dedication and rigorous training, noting that witnessing their daily efforts was a “very valuable experience.”

Hitomi pledged to continue promoting fire safety within the Akihabara community and working with the local community to safeguard Akihabara.

The title of a Fire Chief, even for one day, is just the latest role taken on by Hitomi over the 20 years she has been a maid.

A celebration taking place inside a maid cafe — At Home Café recently celebrated Hitomi’s 20 years in the industry

She debuted as a maid in December 2004 and by 2012 she had became the President and CEO of Infinia Co. Ltd., the parent company of the At Home Café maid café chain.

After retiring from her position as president and CEO, she is still an active maid as well as being the companies Chief Branding Officer (CBO).

In addition to her work at At Home Café, Hitomi also serves as an Akihabara Tourism Goodwill Ambassador.

Source: PR Times