Emergency Situations in Germany #

Know When to Call 112, 110, or 116117 #

Whether you’re new to Germany or just unfamiliar with the emergency system, this quick guide will help you know exactly what to do and who to call in stressful situations.

112 – Life-Threatening Emergencies (Ambulance, Fire, Rescue) #

Dial 112 if someone needs urgent medical help or there’s immediate danger to life or property.

Call 112 if someone is:

• Unconscious or has fainted
• Having a heart attack (chest pain, shortness of breath)
• Bleeding heavily or severely injured
• In a fire, explosion, or gas leak situation
• In a serious car accident
• Experiencing a seizure, stroke, or can’t breathe
• Needing medical help and can’t be taken safely by car

Free from any phone – even without SIM or credit.

What to Expect When You Call 112 #

You’ll be connected to an emergency dispatcher. Most speak German, but many understand basic English.

Say:

• “I need an ambulance” → “Ich brauche einen Krankenwagen!”
• “There’s a fire!” → “Feuer!”

Be ready to provide:

• Your location (address or landmark)
• What happened
• How many people are injured
• Your phone number

Stay on the line – don’t hang up until they say it’s okay.

110 – For Police Emergencies #

Call 110 to reach the police in situations involving safety, crime, or threats.

Use this for:

• Theft, assault, robbery, domestic violence
• Lost or stolen passport/wallet (needed for reports and insurance)
• Feeling unsafe or in danger
• Witnessing a crime

Police response times are usually fast – but only call for real emergencies.

116117 – For Non-Emergency Medical Help (Out-of-Hours Doctor) #

Not every illness requires 112 or a hospital visit.

Call 116117 if:

• You’re sick but stable (flu, infection, fever)
• You can’t see your regular doctor (it’s evening, weekend, or holiday)
• You need a doctor to visit your home
• You need an appointment with a specialist but it’s not urgent

Available 24/7, free, and available nationwide.

Website: www.116117.de

Quick Tips to Stay Ready #

• Save these numbers in your phone:
  • 112 – Ambulance / Fire
  • 110 – Police
  • 116117 – Medical Help Line
• Don’t stress about German. In real emergencies, people will help.
• When in doubt, always call 112. It’s better to be safe.