How Do I Call 911 in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

In case of an emergency, it’s important to know how to call for help. If you’re in Paris, you can call the emergency services by dialing 112 or 18 for firefighters, 15 for medical emergencies.

What is 112?

112 is the general emergency number in Europe. It works in all EU countries and in some other European countries too, including Switzerland and Norway. When you call 112 in Paris, your call is automatically redirected to the appropriate local emergency service.

When should I call 112?

You should only call 112 in a real emergency situation such as a fire, car accident or a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention.

What if I don’t speak French?

If you don’t speak French, don’t worry. The operators who answer the phone at the emergency services speak English as well as other languages. Just tell them your location and describe the situation calmly and clearly.

Calling the Fire Department

If you need to report a fire or request assistance from firefighters in Paris, dial 18 on your phone keypad. This number will connect you directly with the fire department.

What should I do while waiting for help?

If you’re waiting for help to arrive, it’s important to stay calm and follow any instructions provided by the operator on the phone. If it’s safe to do so, try to provide any relevant details about your situation such as your location or any hazards that may be present.

In summary

In an emergency situation in Paris, dial 112 or the specific emergency number: 18 for firefighters and 15 for medical emergencies. Operators who answer these numbers speak multiple languages including English so language barriers won’t be an issue.

Stay calm while waiting for help and try to provide as much information as possible about your situation. Remember, in case of an emergency, every second counts.