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Essential Emergency Numbers in Florence
Whether you’re a tourist visiting the Duomo or a student studying in the historic center, knowing the emergency numbers in Florence can make all the difference in a crisis. Italy uses a universal emergency number, but Florence also has local police and medical contacts you should save. This guide covers every number you might need, when to call, and what to say.
Universal Emergency Number: 112
In 2017, Italy adopted the single European emergency number 112 for all emergencies. When you dial 112 from any phone (including mobile without credit), a multilingual operator answers and directs your call to the appropriate service: police, ambulance, fire brigade, or coast guard. English-speaking operators are available, especially in tourist-heavy cities like Florence.
Direct Numbers for Specific Services
While 112 works for everything, you can also call these numbers directly:
- 113 – State Police (Polizia di Stato): for crimes, theft, or public safety.
- 118 – Medical Emergency (Emergenza Sanitaria): for ambulance, first aid, or health crises.
- 115 – Fire Department (Vigili del Fuoco): for fires, building collapses, or rescue.
- 1530 – Coast Guard (Guardia Costiera): for sea or river emergencies (less relevant in Florence but good to know).
Note: 113, 118, and 115 still work, but 112 is the most efficient because operators can transfer you instantly.
When to Call Each Number
Understanding which number to use saves time. Here’s a quick decision guide:
| Situation | Number to Call |
|---|---|
| Pickpocketing or theft | 112 or 113 |
| Medical emergency (chest pain, accident) | 112 or 118 |
| Fire or smoke | 112 or 115 |
| Lost child or missing person | 112 |
| Car accident with injuries | 112 |
| Reporting a crime after the fact | Go to a police station or call 113 |
What to Say When You Call
Stay calm and provide these details:
- Your location (street name, landmark, or use Google Maps coordinates).
- What happened (e.g., “I was robbed near Piazza della Signoria”).
- Your phone number so they can call back.
- If you need an interpreter, ask for “English please” or “Interprete per favore.”
Local Police and Support Services in Florence
Beyond national emergency numbers, Florence has local police and tourist assistance that can help with non-urgent issues.
Florence Municipal Police (Polizia Municipale)
For parking fines, noise complaints, or lost property, contact the local police at 055 32831 (switchboard) or dial 055 328 3333 for the command center. They are located at Via dell’Ardiglione 16.
Tourist Police (Polizia Turistica)
Florence has a dedicated tourist police unit at the Santa Maria Novella train station (Piazza della Stazione). They handle reports from visitors, such as lost passports or theft. Open daily 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Phone: 055 238 3388.
24/7 Pharmacies
If you need medication after hours, use the pharmacy rotation service. The main 24-hour pharmacy is Farmacia Comunale 13 at Via dei Calzaiuoli 7/r, near Piazza della Signoria. Call 055 289 930.
Medical Emergencies: Hospitals and First Aid
For serious injuries, call 118. For minor issues, you can visit a Pronto Soccorso (emergency room). The main hospital in Florence is Ospedale di Santa Maria Nuova (Piazza Santa Maria Nuova 1, phone 055 69381). Another large hospital is Ospedale Careggi (Largo Brambilla 3, phone 055 794 1111), which has a specialist trauma center.
Emergency Dental Care
For dental emergencies, call the Guardia Medica Turistica at 055 475 411 or visit the dental clinic at Ospedale Santa Maria Nuova.
Lost or Stolen Passport
If your passport is lost or stolen, first report it to the police (112 or 113) and get a denuncia (police report). Then contact your embassy. In Florence, the U.S. Consulate is at Lungarno Amerigo Vespucci 38 (phone 055 266 951), and the British Consulate is at Via dei Conti 1 (phone 055 219 112).
Emergency Numbers for Specific Needs
- Car breakdown (ACI): 803 116 (toll-free from Italian lines) or 112.
- Poison control: 02 6610 1029 (national number).
- Anti-violence helpline: 1522 (free, 24/7, multilingual).
- Child abuse hotline: 114.
- Forest fire: 1515.
How to Save These Numbers
Before your trip, program the following into your phone:
- 112 (universal emergency)
- 118 (ambulance)
- 113 (police)
- 115 (fire)
- Your country’s embassy in Florence
Also download the 112 Where Are U app, which sends your GPS location to the operator when you call 112.
Common Mistakes Tourists Make
Avoid these errors:
- Calling 911: 911 does not work in Italy. Use 112.
- Not knowing your location: Always note the street name or a landmark. Use Google Maps to get coordinates.
- Assuming operators speak English: While many do, it’s safer to learn key phrases like “Aiuto” (help) and “Emergenza” (emergency).
- Waiting too long to call: In Italy, emergency services respond quickly. Don’t hesitate.
Emergency Numbers in Florence: Quick Reference Card
Print this out or screenshot it:
- 112 – All emergencies
- 113 – Police
- 118 – Ambulance
- 115 – Fire
- 055 328 3333 – Florence Municipal Police
- 055 238 3388 – Tourist Police
- 055 289 930 – 24-hour Pharmacy
- 055 69381 – Santa Maria Nuova Hospital
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Numbers in Florence
Can I call 112 from a phone with no credit?
Yes, 112 works on any mobile network even without a SIM card or credit. It’s a free call.
Do I need to speak Italian to call 112?
No, operators speak multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Spanish. You can also ask for an interpreter.
What if I dial 911 by mistake?
911 redirects to 112 in Italy. You will still reach emergency services, but it’s better to dial 112 directly to avoid confusion.
Is there an emergency app for Florence?
Yes, download the official “112 Where Are U” app. It automatically shares your location with the operator when you call 112.
What should I do if I lose my passport in Florence?
File a police report at the nearest station (or call 112), then contact your embassy. The tourist police at Santa Maria Novella can assist.
Are emergency numbers free from payphones?
Yes, calls to 112, 113, 118, and 115 are free from any phone, including payphones.
Stay Safe in Florence: Final Tips
Knowing the emergency numbers in Florence is your first step to a worry-free visit. Save them now, share them with your travel companions, and remember that 112 is your one-stop number for any crisis. Keep a copy of this guide in your phone notes or printed in your bag. Florence is a beautiful city, and with these numbers at your fingertips, you can explore with confidence.
Photo by Matthew Jones on Unsplash
Thanks for the list. Do I need to know Italian to call 112?
No, 112 operators in Florence speak English and other languages. Just say ‘English please’ if needed, and they’ll connect you to an interpreter.
I’m traveling with a child. What should I do if they get lost in a crowded area like the Uffizi?
Call 112 immediately. Tell the operator your location and a description of your child. Also, alert museum staff or local police nearby. It’s a good idea to have your child memorize your phone number or carry a card with it.
Is 112 really the best number to call even for non-emergencies like a lost passport? I’d rather not tie up emergency lines.
For non-urgent issues like a lost passport, it’s better to contact the tourist police directly at 055 238 3388 or visit their office at Santa Maria Novella station. 112 should be reserved for genuine emergencies.
Good article. One tip: save 112 in your phone as ‘Emergency’ so you can dial quickly even if you’re panicking.
Great suggestion! That’s a smart practice. Also note that 112 works even without a SIM card or credit, as long as your phone has battery.
What about roadside assistance? Is there a number for that?
For roadside assistance, you can call the Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI) at 803 116 from a landline or 116 from a mobile. They operate nationwide, including Florence.