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Emergency Numbers

Key emergency contact numbers for police, fire, ambulance, and other urgent services.

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Emergency Numbers in Munich, Germany

Germany has a well-organized emergency response system, and Munich, as a major city, is no exception. The emergency numbers are standardized across the country, so the same numbers apply in Munich. Here are the key emergency numbers you need to know:

1. Police (Polizei): 110

  • Purpose: Use this number to report crimes, theft, assaults, or any situation requiring police assistance.
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge.
  • Languages: Operators typically speak German, but many also speak English. If you donโ€™t speak German, clearly state your language preference (e.g., "English, please").
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 110.
    2. Provide your location (address or landmark) and describe the situation.
    3. Stay on the line until the operator confirms they have all the necessary information.

2. Fire Brigade (Feuerwehr) and Medical Emergencies (Ambulance): 112

  • Purpose: This number is for fire-related emergencies, life-threatening medical situations, or accidents requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge.
  • Languages: German and often English.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 112.
    2. Clearly state the type of emergency (fire, medical, etc.).
    3. Provide your location and any relevant details (e.g., number of people involved, severity of injuries, etc.).
    4. Follow the operatorโ€™s instructions and stay on the line until they confirm they have all the information.

3. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance (On-Call Doctor): 116 117

  • Purpose: For non-life-threatening medical issues outside of regular doctor hours (e.g., evenings, weekends, holidays).
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge.
  • Languages: Primarily German, but some operators may speak English.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 116 117.
    2. Explain your medical issue and provide your location.
    3. You may be directed to an on-call doctor (Hausarzt) or given advice on what to do next.

4. Poison Control Center (Giftnotruf): +49 89 19240

  • Purpose: For cases of poisoning or suspected poisoning (e.g., ingestion of harmful substances, chemical exposure).
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge.
  • Languages: German and sometimes English.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial +49 89 19240.
    2. Provide details about the substance involved, the affected personโ€™s condition, and your location.
    3. Follow the advice given by the poison control specialist.

Costs Associated with Emergency Services

  • Police and Fire Services: Free of charge.
  • Ambulance Services:
    • Emergency ambulance transport is generally covered by health insurance if deemed medically necessary.
    • If you are uninsured or the situation is not classified as an emergency, you may be billed. Costs can range from โ‚ฌ200 to โ‚ฌ500 or more, depending on the services provided.
  • Non-Emergency Medical Assistance: Free to call, but any subsequent treatment may incur costs unless covered by insurance.

How to Contact Emergency Services

  1. Dial the appropriate number (110, 112, etc.) from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card.
  2. Provide clear and concise information:
    • Your name.
    • Your location (address, nearby landmarks, or GPS coordinates if available).
    • The nature of the emergency.
    • Any additional details (e.g., number of people involved, severity of injuries, etc.).
  3. Stay calm and follow instructions from the operator.
  4. Do not hang up until the operator confirms they have all the necessary information.

Local Considerations and Tips

  1. Language Barrier: While many emergency operators in Munich speak English, itโ€™s helpful to know a few key German phrases:
    • "Hilfe!" (Help!)
    • "Ich brauche einen Krankenwagen." (I need an ambulance.)
    • "Es gibt ein Feuer." (There is a fire.)
    • "Ich spreche kein Deutsch." (I donโ€™t speak German.)
  2. Location Awareness: Always be aware of your surroundings. If youโ€™re unsure of your exact address, look for street signs, nearby landmarks, or use your phoneโ€™s GPS to provide coordinates.
  3. Emergency Apps: Consider downloading the "NINA" app (a German government app for emergency alerts) or "Katwarn" for real-time updates on emergencies in your area.
  4. Public Phones: If your mobile phone is unavailable, you can use public phones to call emergency numbers for free.
  5. Cultural Note: Germans value efficiency and directness. When speaking to emergency operators, be concise and stick to the facts.
  6. Health Insurance: Ensure you have valid health insurance that covers emergency medical services in Germany. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU visitors should check their travel insurance coverage.

Additional Resources

  • Munich Police Headquarters (Polizeiprรคsidium Mรผnchen):
    • Address: EttstraรŸe 2-4, 80333 Munich
    • Non-emergency contact: +49 89 2910-0
    • Website: Munich Police
  • Munich Fire Department (Feuerwehr Mรผnchen):
  • Hospitals with Emergency Rooms:
    • Klinikum Rechts der Isar (Technical University of Munich)
      • Address: Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675 Munich
      • Phone: +49 89 4140-0
    • LMU Klinikum (Ludwig Maximilian University Hospital)
      • Address: MarchioninistraรŸe 15, 81377 Munich
      • Phone: +49 89 4400-0

By familiarizing yourself with these emergency numbers and procedures, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle any urgent situation during your time in Munich. Stay safe!