What Emergency Number Should I Call in France?

What emergency number should I call in France?
In France, the main emergency number you can always call is 112. It works nationwide, is free, and connects you to emergency services even if you don’t speak French well. In addition, France uses specific emergency numbers depending on the type of situation—medical, police, or fire.

This guide explains exactly which emergency number to call in France, when to use each one, and what to expect when calling—especially important if you’re visiting France or staying in Paris.

Bookmark this. You’ll probably never need it—but if you do, you’ll be glad you read it.

The Universal Emergency Number in France: 112

If you remember only one number, remember this:

📞 112 — Universal Emergency Number

• Works everywhere in France

• Free from any phone (mobile or landline)

• Connects you to emergency services

• Operators can often assist in English

Use 112 if:

• You’re unsure which service you need

• You’re panicked or confused

• You’re a tourist and don’t speak French

• Your phone is locked or has no credit

112 is your safest first choice.

Main Emergency Numbers in France (Know These)

France also uses dedicated emergency numbers for specific services.

🚓 Police Emergency: 17

Call 17 if you need immediate police assistance.

Use this for:

• Theft or robbery in progress

• Assault or violence

• Threats or dangerous situations

• Serious disturbances

🚑 Medical Emergency (Ambulance): 15

Call 15 for urgent medical help.

Use this for:

• Serious illness or injury

• Loss of consciousness

• Breathing difficulties

• Heart-related symptoms

This connects you to SAMU, France’s emergency medical service.

🚒 Fire & Rescue: 18

Call 18 for fire or rescue emergencies.

Use this for:

• Fires

• Car accidents

• People trapped or injured

• Dangerous situations requiring rescue

Fire services in France also handle many emergency rescues.

Emergency Numbers at a Glance

If unsure → 112.

Can I Call Emergency Numbers Without a SIM Card?

Yes.

Emergency calls:

• Work without phone credit

• Work even if your phone is locked

• Often work without a SIM card

As long as your phone has signal, you can call.

What Language Do Emergency Operators Speak?

This is a common worry.

• French is the primary language

• Many operators—especially via 112—can assist in English

• Speak slowly and clearly

• Say “English, please” if needed

You do not need perfect French to get help.

What Information Should I Give When Calling?

Stay calm and provide this, in order:

1. What is happening (medical, police, fire)

2. Your location (street name, landmark, metro station)

3. Who needs help (you, someone else, number of people)

4. Any immediate danger

Do not hang up until the operator tells you to.

What If It’s Not a Real Emergency?

France takes emergency calls seriously. Do not call emergency numbers for:

• Lost items (unless stolen)

• Minor illnesses

• General information

For non-urgent issues, ask hotel staff, visit a pharmacy, or go to a local police station.

Pharmacies: A Quiet Emergency Resource

In France, pharmacies are highly trained and very helpful.

Pharmacists can:

• Advise on minor medical issues

• Recommend treatment

• Direct you to emergency care if needed

There is always a night or on-call pharmacy available.

Are Emergency Services Reliable in France?

Yes.

France has:

• Fast emergency response

• Well-trained professionals

• Strong coordination between services

Tourists receive the same emergency care as locals.

Common Mistakes Tourists Make in Emergencies

Avoid these:

• Hesitating too long before calling

• Assuming language will be a problem

• Trying to “handle it yourself” when it’s serious

• Calling the wrong number and hanging up

If it feels urgent, it probably is.

A Simple Rule That Always Works

If you’re unsure, scared, or overwhelmed:

Call 112. Explain slowly. Follow instructions.

That’s enough.

Final Answer: What Emergency Number Should I Call in France?

• Call 112 if you’re unsure or need immediate help

• Call 15 for medical emergencies

• Call 17 for police emergencies

• Call 18 for fire or rescue

France’s emergency system is efficient, accessible, and designed to help—even if you’re a visitor.

Knowing the number is not about fear.
It’s about confidence.