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Emergency Situations in Italy: What to Do and How to Respond

A journey to the Eternal City, Rome, can be an enthralling experience with its marvelous history, breathtaking architecture, and tantalizing cuisine. However, amidst the excitement, unforeseen emergencies may occur, transforming the trip into a nightmare. The key to navigating through such exigencies lies in understanding how to respond. This article targets to address those questions and offer valuable insights into the emergency services in Rome. 

What to Do in an Emergency in Italy?

In any emergency situation, the most critical first step is to keep calm. Panic can cloud rational thinking and delay crucial actions. Always have a list of emergency contact numbers at hand, and inform your family or friends about the situation. 

Emergency in Italy and Emergency Numbers

Italy, like other countries, has an array of emergency services for different crises. Emergency in Italy is addressed with efficiency and immediate response. The general emergency number is 112, the European equivalent of the 911 emergency number in the United States. This number will connect you to the nearest emergency service station regardless of the nature of the emergency – from criminal offenses, health crises to disasters.

How Do You Call 911 in Italy?

Dial 112, the general emergency number in Italy. The operator, who can converse in multiple languages, will connect you to the relevant department based on your emergency needs – medical, police, or fire service.

Emergency Health Services and their Costs in Italy

In Italy, you dial 118 for health-related emergencies. The service includes ambulance, critical care, and hospitalization. 

Is emergency treatment free in Italy? Yes, it is. If you are from another EU country, your European Health Insurance Card will cover the treatment. Non-EU citizens might also get free emergency care, but it’s advised to have travel insurance.

Contacting the Police in Italy

The general emergency number ‘112’ may not be direct to the police force. You can dial ‘113’ to connect directly to the local police. In Rome, you can also visit the nearest ‘Questura’ (police headquarters) or ‘Commissariato’ (local police station), especially for non-emergency issues.

Language Proficiency of the Italian Police

Do the police in Italy speak English? Yes, they do, but this might vary. While the major tourist cities and emergency hotline responders will have English-speaking staff, it might be a little challenging in less-touristy zones. However, there is always access to an interpreter at the dispatch center.

Additional Hotlines in Italy

What is 119 in Italy? This number is a dedicated helpline for children in danger and has both call and text message services. Supporting children’s rights and safety, this line offers immediate assistance and necessary intervention. 

The Police Helpline in Italy

The Police helpline in Italy is ‘113’. This service caters to general emergencies, especially those involving criminal offenses. The operators are trained to help callers amidst distress and mobilize necessary police assistance immediately.

ServiceEmergency NumberWhen to Call
Ambulance – emergency health issues118For immediate medical emergencies and assistance.
General emergency and/or police (Carabinieri)112For general emergencies or urgent police assistance.
Fire service (Vigili del Fuoco)115For fires or other related emergencies.
Police (Polizia)113For police assistance in non-emergency situations.
Coast Guard (Guardia costiera)1530For emergencies at sea or along the coast.
Child Protection Service119For emergencies related to child welfare or abuse.

🚩 Note: When you’re in an emergency situation in Italy, always remember to stay calm and try to provide as much information as possible to the emergency services. It’s also good to have a local contact or someone who speaks Italian if you’re not fluent, as this can aid communication during critical moments.

Being aware of Italy’s emergency services enhances your safety levels while exploring this fascinating city. Remember the numbers, 112 for general emergencies, 113 for police assistance, 118 for medical emergencies, and 119 for child protection services. Most crucially, stay calm and composed. Rome is equipped with well-structured responsive services; help is just a phone call away.


Explore our walking maps of Rome:

Rome in a day

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day
🐾 Walking time: 3-4 hours

Panoramic Views in Rome

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day
🐾 Walking time: Flexible

Fountains of Rome

📌 Allotted Time: 5 hrs
🐾 Walking time: 4-5 hours

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