Frankfurt

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Emergency Numbers

Key emergency contacts and what to do in case of an emergency while staying in Frankfurt.

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Emergency Numbers in Frankfurt, Germany

Germany has a well-organized emergency response system, and Frankfurt, as a major city, is no exception. The following are the key emergency numbers you need to know:

1. General Emergency Number (Police, Fire, Medical)

  • Number: 112
  • Purpose: This is the European-wide emergency number for life-threatening situations. It connects you to fire services, medical emergencies, and rescue services.
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge, and works from both landlines and mobile phones (even without a SIM card).
  • Languages: Operators typically speak German and English, and in some cases, other major European languages.

2. Police Emergency Number

  • Number: 110
  • Purpose: This is the direct number for the police in case of crimes, accidents, or other law enforcement-related emergencies.
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge, and works from both landlines and mobile phones.
  • Languages: German and English are commonly spoken by operators.

3. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance

  • Number: 116 117
  • Purpose: This is the number for non-life-threatening medical issues, such as finding an on-call doctor outside of regular office hours.
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge.
  • Languages: German is the primary language, but some operators may speak English.

4. Poison Control Center

  • Number: +49 6131 19240 (Mainz Poison Control Center, which serves Frankfurt and the surrounding region)
  • Purpose: For cases of poisoning or chemical exposure.
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge.
  • Languages: German and limited English.

5. Emergency Dental Services

  • Number: +49 69 665 568 88 (Frankfurt Dental Emergency Service)
  • Purpose: For urgent dental issues outside of regular office hours.
  • Availability: Specific hours (usually evenings, weekends, and holidays). Call ahead to confirm.
  • Languages: German is the primary language, but some dentists may speak English.

Costs Associated with Emergency Services

  1. Medical Emergencies (112):

    • Ambulance services are generally covered by health insurance (public or private) if deemed medically necessary.
    • If you are uninsured, expect to pay approximately โ‚ฌ300โ€“โ‚ฌ500 for ambulance transport.
    • Emergency room visits may incur additional costs if you are uninsured or if the treatment is not covered by your insurance.

  2. Police Services (110):

    • Police assistance is free of charge.

  3. Fire Services (112):

    • Firefighting and rescue services are free for emergencies. However, false alarms or non-emergency calls may result in fines.

  4. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance (116 117):

    • Consultations are free, but any subsequent treatment or medication may incur costs depending on your insurance coverage.

  5. Poison Control Center:

    • Advice is free of charge.

  6. Dental Emergencies:

    • Costs depend on the treatment and your insurance coverage. Be prepared to pay upfront if you are uninsured.

How to Contact Emergency Services

  1. Dial the appropriate number (112 or 110).

    • From a mobile phone, you do not need to dial an area code.
    • Calls to 112 and 110 are prioritized, even if the network is busy.

  2. Provide the following information (in German or English):

    • Who: Your name and contact information.
    • What: Describe the emergency (e.g., fire, medical issue, crime).
    • Where: Provide the exact location, including street name, number, and landmarks if possible.
    • When: State when the incident occurred (e.g., "just now" or "10 minutes ago").
    • How many: Indicate the number of people involved or injured.
    • Other details: Mention any immediate dangers (e.g., "the fire is spreading" or "the person is unconscious").

  3. Follow instructions from the operator.

    • Stay calm and answer all questions clearly.
    • Do not hang up until the operator tells you to.

Local Considerations and Tips

  1. Language Barrier:

    • While many emergency operators in Frankfurt speak English, it is helpful to know basic German phrases for emergencies. For example:
      • "Ich brauche Hilfe!" (I need help!)
      • "Es gibt einen Unfall." (There is an accident.)
      • "Jemand ist verletzt." (Someone is injured.)
    • If you do not speak German, clearly state, "I speak English," at the beginning of the call.

  2. Mobile Phones:

    • You can call 112 or 110 even if your phone has no credit or is locked.
    • Ensure your phone is charged and has location services enabled to help emergency responders locate you.

  3. Cultural Norms:

    • Germans value efficiency and directness. Be concise and factual when describing the situation.
    • Avoid making prank calls to emergency numbers, as this is taken very seriously and can result in fines or legal action.

  4. Emergency Apps:

    • Consider downloading the NINA App (Notfall-Informations- und Nachrichten-App) for real-time alerts about emergencies, weather warnings, and other critical information in Germany.

  5. Health Insurance:

    • Always carry proof of health insurance (e.g., European Health Insurance Card or private insurance details) to streamline medical treatment and billing.

  6. Emergency Services for Tourists:

    • If you are a tourist, your embassy or consulate can assist in emergencies. Keep their contact information handy.

Summary Table of Emergency Numbers

| Service | Number | Languages | Cost | |------------------------------|--------------------|---------------------|---------------------| | General Emergency (Fire/Medical) | 112 | German, English | Free | | Police | 110 | German, English | Free | | Non-Emergency Medical | 116 117 | German, limited English | Free consultation | | Poison Control | +49 6131 19240 | German, limited English | Free | | Emergency Dental Services | +49 69 665 568 88 | German, limited English | Varies by treatment |

By familiarizing yourself with these emergency numbers and procedures, you can feel more confident and prepared during your time in Frankfurt. Stay safe!