Marseille

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Emergency Services

Sections

1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Marseille

France has a centralized emergency system with specific numbers for different services. Here are the key numbers you need to know:

  • Police (Police Nationale): Dial 17
    • For reporting crimes, disturbances, or immediate threats to safety.
  • Fire Brigade (Pompiers): Dial 18
    • For fires, accidents, and rescue operations.
  • Medical Emergencies (SAMU): Dial 15
    • For urgent medical assistance or to request an ambulance.
  • European Emergency Number: Dial 112
    • This is a universal emergency number across the EU, including France. It connects you to the appropriate service (police, fire, or medical) and is especially useful for non-French speakers.
  • Poison Control Center (Centre Antipoison): Dial +33 4 91 75 25 25
    • For cases of poisoning or chemical exposure.

2. Categories of Emergency Services

Marseille’s emergency services are divided into three main categories:

A. Police Services

  • Police Nationale: Handles criminal activities, public safety, and emergencies.
  • Police Municipale: Focuses on local issues like traffic violations and minor disturbances.
  • Gendarmerie: Operates in suburban and rural areas around Marseille.

Key Locations:

  • Main Police Station (Commissariat Central):
    Address: 55 Rue de l'Évêché, 13002 Marseille
    Phone: +33 4 88 77 58 00

Tips:

  • If you are a victim of theft or assault, report it immediately to the nearest police station. You may need a police report (récépissé de plainte) for insurance claims.
  • English-speaking officers may not always be available, so consider using translation apps or asking for help from locals.

B. Fire and Rescue Services

  • The Sapeurs-Pompiers (Fire Brigade) in Marseille is highly trained and also handles rescue operations, including road accidents and water rescues.

Key Locations:

  • Main Fire Station:
    Address: 1 Boulevard de Louvain, 13008 Marseille
    Phone: +33 4 91 16 80 00

Tips:

  • The fire brigade also responds to medical emergencies in some cases, especially when SAMU is unavailable.

C. Medical Services

  • SAMU (Service d'Aide Médicale Urgente): Provides emergency medical assistance and dispatches ambulances.
  • Hospitals and Clinics: Marseille has several public and private hospitals equipped to handle emergencies.

Key Hospitals:

  1. Hôpital de la Timone (AP-HM):
    Address: 264 Rue Saint-Pierre, 13005 Marseille
    Phone: +33 4 91 38 00 00
    Specialties: General emergencies, pediatrics, and trauma care.

  2. Hôpital Nord (AP-HM):
    Address: Chemin des Bourrely, 13015 Marseille
    Phone: +33 4 91 96 89 00
    Specialties: Trauma and critical care.

  3. Clinique Bouchard:
    Address: 77 Rue du Docteur Escat, 13006 Marseille
    Phone: +33 4 91 15 90 00
    Specialties: Private care and maternity services.

Costs for Medical Services:

  • Emergency medical care in public hospitals is generally covered for EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
  • Non-EU visitors may need to pay upfront and claim reimbursement through travel insurance.
  • Ambulance services may cost between €100-€300, depending on the distance and type of care provided.

Tips:

  • Always carry your ID, health insurance card, and any relevant medical documents.
  • Pharmacies (Pharmacies de Garde) provide 24/7 access to medications. Look for the green cross sign or check online for the nearest open pharmacy.

3. Procedures to Follow in Case of an Emergency

  1. Stay Calm: Assess the situation and ensure your safety before calling for help.
  2. Call the Appropriate Number: Provide clear information, including:
    • Your location (address or landmarks).
    • The nature of the emergency.
    • Any immediate risks (e.g., fire, injury, or ongoing crime).
  3. Follow Instructions: Emergency operators may provide guidance on what to do until help arrives.
  4. Language Barrier: If you don’t speak French, say “Parlez-vous anglais?” (Do you speak English?). Alternatively, use simple words or a translation app.

4. Local Considerations and Tips for Marseille

  • Pickpocketing and Theft: Marseille is known for petty crimes, especially in tourist areas like the Old Port (Vieux-Port) and La Canebière. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Emergency responders are professional and efficient, but they may expect you to remain calm and cooperative. Avoid raising your voice or showing frustration, as this may be misinterpreted.
  • Traffic Accidents: Marseille’s traffic can be chaotic. If you’re involved in an accident, call the police (17) and your insurance provider. Do not move your vehicle until authorities arrive unless it’s causing a hazard.
  • Heat-Related Emergencies: Summers in Marseille can be very hot. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade to avoid heatstroke. In case of heat-related illness, call SAMU (15).

5. Additional Resources

  • Tourist Assistance:
    Marseille’s Tourist Office can provide guidance and support in non-urgent situations.
    Address: 11 La Canebière, 13001 Marseille
    Phone: +33 4 91 13 89 00
    Website: www.marseille-tourisme.com

  • Consular Assistance:
    If you lose your passport or need legal help, contact your country’s consulate in Marseille or nearby cities.

By familiarizing yourself with these emergency services and procedures, you’ll be better prepared to handle any unexpected situations during your time in Marseille. Stay safe and enjoy your visit!