Frankfurt

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Emergency Services

Essential services including police, fire department, and ambulance services for safety and emergencies.

Sections

Overview of Emergency Services in Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt, like the rest of Germany, has a well-organized and efficient emergency services system. The three main types of emergency services are:

  1. Police (Polizei)
  2. Fire Brigade (Feuerwehr)
  3. Medical Emergency Services (Rettungsdienst)

Each service is accessible through dedicated emergency numbers, and the system is designed to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.

Emergency Contact Numbers

Germany uses a standardized set of emergency numbers that are free to call from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card.

  1. Police (Polizei):

    • Emergency Number: 110
    • Use this number to report crimes, accidents, or situations requiring police intervention.

  2. Fire Brigade (Feuerwehr) and Medical Emergencies (Rettungsdienst):

    • Emergency Number: 112
    • This number is used for fire-related emergencies and urgent medical assistance, including ambulance services.

  3. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance (On-Call Doctors):

    • Number: 116 117
    • For non-life-threatening medical issues outside of regular doctor hours, such as minor injuries or illnesses.

  4. Poison Control Center (Giftnotruf):

    • Number: +49 6131 19240
    • For cases of poisoning or chemical exposure.

How to Access Emergency Services

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

    • Calls are free and can be made from any phone, including payphones and mobile phones without credit or a SIM card.
    • Operators typically speak German, but many are trained to handle calls in English and other major languages.

  2. Provide clear information:

    • State your name and location (be as specific as possible, e.g., street name, landmarks, or building number).
    • Describe the nature of the emergency (e.g., fire, medical issue, or crime).
    • Answer any questions the operator asks to ensure the appropriate response team is dispatched.

  3. Follow instructions:

    • Stay on the line until the operator tells you to hang up.
    • If you are in a public place, look for emergency call points (Notrufsรคulen), which are often located in train stations, highways, and other public areas.

Costs Associated with Emergency Services

  1. Police Services:

    • Free of charge for all residents and visitors.

  2. Fire Brigade Services:

    • Free for genuine emergencies. However, false alarms or misuse of services may result in fines.

  3. Medical Emergency Services:

    • Ambulance services are generally covered by health insurance (public or private).
    • If you are uninsured, you may be billed for the service. Costs can range from โ‚ฌ200 to โ‚ฌ500 for ambulance transport, depending on the situation.
    • Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

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

    • Consultations are typically covered by health insurance. If you are uninsured, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for treatment.

Procedures to Follow in an Emergency

  1. Medical Emergency:

    • Call 112 and provide details about the patientโ€™s condition.
    • If possible, administer first aid while waiting for the ambulance.
    • Be prepared to provide information about any known medical conditions, allergies, or medications the patient is taking.

  2. Fire Emergency:

    • Call 112 and evacuate the building immediately.
    • Do not use elevators during a fire.
    • If trapped, close doors to prevent smoke from entering and signal for help from a window.

  3. Crime or Safety Emergency:

    • Call 110 to report the incident.
    • If you are a victim of theft or assault, try to remember key details about the perpetrator (e.g., appearance, clothing, or vehicle).
    • For lost or stolen passports, contact your embassy after filing a police report.

Local and Cultural Considerations

  1. Language Barrier:

    • While emergency operators often speak English, it is helpful to know basic German phrases such as:
      • "Ich brauche Hilfe!" (I need help!)
      • "Es gibt einen Notfall." (There is an emergency.)
      • "Ich spreche kein Deutsch." (I donโ€™t speak German.)

  2. Emergency Call Etiquette:

    • Only use emergency numbers for genuine emergencies. Misuse can delay help for others and may result in fines.

  3. Health Insurance:

    • Germany has a mandatory health insurance system. Visitors should carry proof of travel or health insurance to avoid high medical costs.
    • EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical emergencies.

  4. Emergency Services for Non-Citizens:

    • Emergency services are available to everyone, regardless of residency or citizenship status.
    • If you are undocumented, you can still access emergency medical care without fear of legal repercussions.

  5. Emergency Apps:

    • Consider downloading the NINA App (Notfall-Informations- und Nachrichten-App), which provides real-time alerts for emergencies such as severe weather, fires, or other hazards in Germany.
    • The app is available in English and German.

Additional Resources

  1. Hospitals in Frankfurt:

    • University Hospital Frankfurt (Universitรคtsklinikum Frankfurt): The largest hospital in the city, offering comprehensive medical care.
    • Address: Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main
    • Phone: +49 69 63010

  2. Police Stations in Frankfurt:

    • Frankfurt Police Headquarters (Polizeiprรคsidium Frankfurt am Main):
      • Address: Adickesallee 70, 60322 Frankfurt am Main
      • Phone (non-emergency): +49 69 7550

  3. Embassies and Consulates:

    • Locate your countryโ€™s embassy or consulate in Frankfurt for additional support in emergencies involving lost documents or legal issues.

Summary

Frankfurtโ€™s emergency services are reliable, efficient, and accessible to everyone. By familiarizing yourself with the emergency numbers (110 for police, 112 for fire and medical), understanding the procedures, and ensuring you have adequate insurance coverage, you can navigate emergencies with confidence. Always remain calm, provide clear information, and follow the instructions of emergency operators to ensure the best possible outcome.