Hobart

🚨

Emergency Services

Information on accessing police, fire, ambulance, and other emergency services in Hobart.

Sections

Emergency Services in Hobart, Australia

Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, has a well-organized and efficient emergency services system. The primary emergency services include Police, Fire, and Ambulance, all of which can be accessed through a centralized emergency number.

1. Emergency Contact Numbers

  • Triple Zero (000): This is the universal emergency number in Australia for life-threatening situations. It connects you to Police, Fire, or Ambulance services.

    • Dial 000 from any phone (landline, mobile, or payphone).
    • The operator will ask which service you require (Police, Fire, or Ambulance) and your location.

  • 112: This is an alternative emergency number for mobile phones and works even if your phone has no signal from your provider (as long as another network is available).

  • 106: A text-based emergency number for people with hearing or speech impairments, accessible via a TTY (teletypewriter).

  • 131 444: For non-urgent police assistance (e.g., reporting a crime that is not in progress).

  • 1800 333 000: Crime Stoppers (to report crimes anonymously).

2. Emergency Services Overview

A. Police Services

  • Role: The Tasmania Police are responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing crime, and ensuring public safety.
  • Contact: Dial 000 for emergencies or 131 444 for non-urgent matters.
  • Local Police Stations: Hobart has several police stations, with the main one located at:
    • Hobart Police Station: 37-43 Liverpool Street, Hobart TAS 7000.
  • Operating Procedures:
    • In emergencies, police will respond immediately.
    • For non-urgent matters, you may be asked to visit a station or file a report online.
  • Costs: Police services are free of charge for all residents and visitors.

B. Fire Services

  • Role: The Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) handles fire emergencies, rescues, and hazardous material incidents.
  • Contact: Dial 000 for fire emergencies.
  • Fire Safety:
    • Hobart is prone to bushfires, especially during the summer months (December to February). Visitors should stay informed about fire danger ratings and warnings.
    • Download the "TasALERT" app or visit the TasALERT website for real-time updates on fire risks.
  • Operating Procedures:
    • In case of a fire, evacuate the area immediately and call 000.
    • Provide clear details about the location and nature of the fire.
  • Costs: Fire services are free for emergencies. However, false alarms (e.g., from fire alarms in buildings) may incur a fee for the property owner.

C. Ambulance Services

  • Role: Ambulance Tasmania provides emergency medical care and transport to hospitals.
  • Contact: Dial 000 for medical emergencies.
  • Operating Procedures:
    • When you call 000, the operator will ask for details about the medical emergency and dispatch an ambulance if required.
    • Paramedics provide on-site care and transport patients to the nearest hospital if necessary.
  • Costs:
    • Ambulance services in Tasmania are not free and can be expensive for both residents and visitors.
    • Costs vary depending on the distance traveled and the level of care provided. For example:
      • Emergency call-out fees can range from $400 to $1,000 AUD, plus additional charges per kilometer.
    • Health Insurance:
      • Tasmanian residents are encouraged to have ambulance cover as part of their private health insurance.
      • Visitors should check if their travel insurance covers ambulance services in Australia.

3. Hospitals and Medical Facilities

Hobart has several hospitals equipped to handle emergencies:

  • Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH): The largest public hospital in Tasmania, located at 48 Liverpool Street, Hobart TAS 7000. It has a 24/7 emergency department.
  • Hobart Private Hospital: Located at 30 Argyle Street, Hobart TAS 7000, this is a private facility offering emergency care for insured patients.

4. Other Emergency Services

A. State Emergency Service (SES)

  • Role: The SES assists with natural disasters (e.g., floods, storms, and earthquakes) and search-and-rescue operations.
  • Contact: Dial 132 500 for SES assistance in non-life-threatening situations (e.g., storm damage, fallen trees).
  • Costs: SES services are free of charge.

B. Poison Information Centre

  • Contact: Dial 13 11 26 for advice on poisoning, bites, or stings.
  • Operating Procedures:
    • Available 24/7 for immediate advice.
    • Provide details about the substance involved and the affected person’s condition.
  • Costs: Free service.

C. Marine and Coastal Emergencies

  • Role: Tasmania Police and Marine Rescue Tasmania handle marine emergencies.
  • Contact: Dial 000 or use marine radio (VHF Channel 16) to call for help.
  • Costs: Free for emergencies.

5. Important Considerations for Locals and Visitors

A. Language Assistance

  • If English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter when calling 000. The operator will connect you to a translator to assist with the emergency.

B. Mobile Phone Coverage

  • Some remote areas in Tasmania may have limited mobile phone coverage. Visitors are advised to carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) when traveling in remote regions.

C. Bushfire Preparedness

  • During bushfire season, always check fire danger ratings and warnings.
  • Follow evacuation orders promptly and have an emergency plan in place.

D. Travel Insurance

  • Visitors should ensure their travel insurance covers medical emergencies, including ambulance services, as these can be costly in Australia.

E. Reporting Non-Urgent Issues

  • For non-urgent police matters, use 131 444 or visit a local police station.
  • For non-urgent medical advice, contact the HealthDirect hotline at 1800 022 222.

6. Summary Table of Key Contacts

| Service | Contact Number | Notes | |------------------------------|--------------------|---------------------------------------------| | Police, Fire, Ambulance | 000 | For life-threatening emergencies. | | Non-Urgent Police Assistance | 131 444 | For non-urgent police matters. | | SES (Disaster Assistance) | 132 500 | For storm, flood, or natural disaster help. | | Poison Information Centre | 13 11 26 | For poisoning, bites, or stings. | | Crime Stoppers | 1800 333 000 | To report crimes anonymously. | | HealthDirect (Medical Advice)| 1800 022 222 | For non-urgent medical advice. |

By familiarizing yourself with these services and procedures, you can ensure a safer and more prepared experience while in Hobart. Always prioritize safety and don’t hesitate to call for help in an emergency.