Emergency numbers around the world
112, 911, 999: the emergency numbers to know by region, so you can react fast when it matters.
The single European number
112
Works in every EU country, free to call from any phone, even locked or without a SIM card, and even if your usual carrier's network is unavailable (it automatically switches to any other available network).
Numbers by region
| Country / region | General emergency number |
|---|---|
| European Union | 112 |
| United States, Canada | 911 |
| United Kingdom | 999 (or 112, both work) |
| Australia | 000 |
| Japan | 110 (police), 119 (fire/ambulance) |
| China | 110 (police), 120 (ambulance) |
While travelling, remembering 112 in the EU covers most cases; elsewhere, checking the local number before you leave beats a general list, since some countries use separate numbers per service (police/fire/ambulance).
What to say quickly
- Your precise location (address, or landmarks if unknown).
- The nature of the emergency (medical, fire, safety).
- How many people are involved.
- Stay on the line until the operator confirms they have everything they need.
Emergency text messages
In several countries, a dedicated number lets you reach emergency services by SMS — designed in particular for Deaf or hard-of-hearing people, or a situation where speaking is risky.
Additional useful numbers (US example)
| Number | Service |
|---|---|
| 911 | General emergency (police, fire, medical) |
| 988 | Suicide & Crisis Lifeline |
| 211 | Community and social services helpline |
| 711 | Telecommunications relay service (accessibility) |
What to do while waiting for help
- Secure the area if you can, without putting yourself in danger.
- Don't move an injured person unless there's an immediate danger (fire, collapse risk).
- Prepare useful information for responders on arrival: current medication, known allergies, how the incident happened.
Deliberately calling an emergency number for a false alert is a criminal offence in most countries — these lines need to stay available for real emergencies.
Thanks for the feedback!