Stuttgart

1. Types of Emergency Services in Stuttgart

Stuttgart provides three main types of emergency services:

a. Police (Polizei)

• Purpose: Handles crimes, public safety, traffic accidents, and lost property.
• Emergency Contact Number: 110
  • This number is toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card.
• Non-Emergency Contact: For non-urgent matters, you can contact the Stuttgart Police Headquarters at +49 711 8990.
• Languages: Police officers often speak English, but it’s helpful to know basic German phrases or have a translation app.

b. Fire Brigade (Feuerwehr)

• Purpose: Responds to fires, rescue operations, and hazardous material incidents.
• Emergency Contact Number: 112
  • This number is also toll-free and works across the EU for fire and medical emergencies.
• Non-Emergency Contact: For fire safety advice or non-urgent inquiries, contact the Stuttgart Fire Department at +49 711 216-77011.

c. Medical Emergency Services (Rettungsdienst)

• Purpose: Provides ambulance services, emergency medical care, and transport to hospitals.
• Emergency Contact Number: 112
  • This number connects you to both fire and medical emergency services.
• Non-Emergency Medical Assistance:
  • On-Call Medical Service (Ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst): Dial 116 117 for non-life-threatening medical issues outside regular clinic hours.
  • Pharmacies (Apotheken): Look for signs saying "Notdienst" for pharmacies open after hours. You can find the nearest one at Apotheken.de.

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2. How to Access Emergency Services

• Dialing Emergency Numbers:
  • Dial 110 for police or 112 for fire and medical emergencies.
  • Clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and any immediate risks.
  • Stay on the line until the dispatcher confirms they have all the necessary information.
• Location Information:
  • Provide your address or a nearby landmark. If you’re unsure of your location, describe your surroundings as best as possible.
• Language:
  • Dispatchers are trained to handle calls in German but may also speak English. If you don’t speak German, say “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” (Do you speak English?).

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3. Costs Associated with Emergency Services

• Police: Free of charge for all services.
• Fire Brigade: Free for genuine emergencies. However, false alarms or non-emergency calls may incur a fee.
• Medical Services:
  • Ambulance Transport: Typically covered by health insurance if deemed medically necessary. Without insurance, costs can range from €200 to €500 depending on the distance and services provided.
  • Hospital Treatment: Emergency care is not denied, but you may be billed if you don’t have valid health insurance. EU citizens with an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) are usually covered. Non-EU visitors should check their travel insurance policies.

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4. Procedures to Follow in an Emergency

1. Stay Calm: Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
2. Call the Appropriate Number:
   • Dial 110 for police or 112 for fire/medical emergencies.
3. Provide Key Information:
   • Your name and phone number.
   • The exact location of the incident.
   • A brief description of the emergency (e.g., fire, injury, crime).
4. Follow Instructions: The dispatcher may give you instructions to ensure your safety or assist the victim until help arrives.
5. Wait for Help: Stay at the scene unless it’s unsafe to do so.

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5. Local Considerations and Cultural Aspects

• Punctuality and Efficiency: Emergency services in Germany are known for their punctuality and professionalism. Expect a quick response once you’ve made the call.
• Respect for Authority: Germans generally have a high level of respect for emergency personnel. Follow their instructions carefully.
• Privacy Laws: Be mindful of Germany’s strict privacy laws. Avoid taking photos or videos of accidents or emergencies unless explicitly asked by authorities.
• First Aid Knowledge: Many Germans are trained in first aid, and bystanders may offer assistance. It’s common for people to step in and help until emergency services arrive.
• Emergency Apps: Consider downloading the NINA App (Notfall-Informations- und Nachrichten-App), which provides real-time alerts for emergencies like severe weather or large-scale incidents.

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6. Additional Resources

• Stuttgart Hospitals:
  • Klinikum Stuttgart (Stuttgart Hospital): One of the largest hospitals in the region.
    • Address: Kriegsbergstraße 60, 70174 Stuttgart
    • Phone: +49 711 278-01
  • Robert-Bosch-Krankenhaus:
    • Address: Auerbachstraße 110, 70376 Stuttgart
    • Phone: +49 711 8101-0
• Poison Control Center (Giftnotruf):
  • Phone: +49 761 19240
  • Available 24/7 for advice on poisoning incidents.

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7. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

• Save Emergency Numbers: Program 110 and 112 into your phone for quick access.
• Health Insurance: Ensure you have valid health insurance that covers emergency medical care in Germany.
• Learn Basic German Phrases: Knowing phrases like “Ich brauche Hilfe” (I need help) or “Es gibt einen Notfall” (There is an emergency) can be useful.
• Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and resources, especially if you’re staying long-term.

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By understanding and preparing for emergencies in Stuttgart, you can ensure a safer and more confident experience in the city. If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!