Global Major Cities Guide

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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.

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?).

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.

4. Procedures to Follow in an Emergency

Stay Calm: Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
Call the Appropriate Number:
- Dial 110 for police or 112 for fire/medical emergencies.
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).
Follow Instructions: The dispatcher may give you instructions to ensure your safety or assist the victim until help arrives.
Wait for Help: Stay at the scene unless it’s unsafe to do so.

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.

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.

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.

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!