Cork
Emergency Contacts
Vital information regarding Cork's emergency services, such as police, fire, and medical assistance.
Sections
1. General Emergency Services in Cork
In Ireland, including Cork, the national emergency number is 112 or 999. Both numbers are free to call and connect you to the following services:
- Police (An Garda Sรญochรกna)
- Fire Brigade
- Ambulance Services
- Coast Guard
How to Call:
- Dial 112 or 999 from any phone (mobile or landline).
- Clearly state the type of emergency (e.g., medical, fire, crime).
- Provide your location (be as specific as possible, including landmarks or street names).
- Follow the operatorโs instructions.
Costs:
- Calls to 112 or 999 are free of charge.
- Emergency response services are generally free, but ambulance transport may incur a fee (details below).
Local Considerations:
- Mobile phones without credit or SIM cards can still call 112 or 999.
- If you are unsure which service you need, explain the situation to the operator, and they will direct your call appropriately.
2. Police Services (An Garda Sรญochรกna)
The police force in Ireland is called An Garda Sรญochรกna (commonly referred to as "Gardaรญ"). They handle law enforcement, public safety, and crime prevention.
Emergency Contact:
- Dial 112 or 999 for immediate police assistance.
Non-Emergency Contact:
-
Cork City Garda Station (Anglesea Street):
Phone: +353 21 452 2000
Address: Anglesea Street, Cork, T12 K242
Opening Hours: 24/7 -
Togher Garda Station:
Phone: +353 21 494 7120
Address: Togher Road, Cork, T12 Y6KA
Opening Hours: 24/7 -
Mayfield Garda Station:
Phone: +353 21 455 8510
Address: Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork, T23 YV78
Opening Hours: 24/7
Costs:
- Police services are free of charge.
Local Tips:
- If you lose your passport or experience theft, report it to the Gardaรญ immediately. They will provide a report, which is essential for insurance claims or replacing documents.
- Cork is generally safe, but always remain vigilant in crowded areas or at night.
3. Fire Services
The Cork City Fire Brigade provides fire and rescue services in Cork.
Emergency Contact:
- Dial 112 or 999 for fire emergencies.
Non-Emergency Contact:
- Cork City Fire Brigade Headquarters:
Phone: +353 21 496 6333
Address: Anglesea Street, Cork, T12 RX96
Email: [email protected]
Costs:
- Emergency fire response is free.
- Non-emergency services (e.g., fire safety inspections) may incur fees. Contact the fire brigade for specific details.
Local Tips:
- If you live in Cork, ensure your home has working smoke alarms and a fire extinguisher.
- Familiarize yourself with fire escape routes in your accommodation.
4. Ambulance and Medical Emergencies
Ambulance services in Cork are provided by the National Ambulance Service (NAS).
Emergency Contact:
- Dial 112 or 999 for medical emergencies requiring an ambulance.
Non-Emergency Contact:
- National Ambulance Service (HSE):
Phone: +353 1 463 1623 (general inquiries)
Website: www.nationalambulanceservice.ie
Costs:
- Ambulance transport to a hospital costs โฌ100 for non-medical cardholders.
- If you have a Medical Card, the service is free.
- Private health insurance may cover ambulance costs; check with your provider.
Local Tips:
- For minor injuries or illnesses, consider visiting a General Practitioner (GP) or a Minor Injury Unit to avoid ambulance fees.
- The nearest hospital with an Emergency Department (ED) in Cork is Cork University Hospital (CUH):
Phone: +353 21 492 2000
Address: Wilton, Cork, T12 DC4A
5. Coast Guard and Water Rescue
The Irish Coast Guard handles maritime emergencies, including rescues at sea and along the coast.
Emergency Contact:
- Dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Non-Emergency Contact:
- Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Valentia:
Phone: +353 66 947 6109
Email: [email protected]
Local Tips:
- If engaging in water activities (e.g., boating, kayaking), always wear a life jacket and inform someone of your plans.
- Be aware of tides and weather conditions, as Corkโs coastal areas can be unpredictable.
6. Poisoning and Toxic Exposure
For cases of poisoning or toxic exposure, contact the National Poisons Information Centre.
Emergency Contact:
- Phone: +353 1 809 2166 (for healthcare professionals; available 24/7)
Public Helpline:
- Phone: +353 1 809 2566 (general inquiries; available 8 amโ10 pm)
Local Tips:
- If you suspect poisoning, call the emergency number 112 or 999 immediately and provide details of the substance involved.
7. Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, there are several resources available in Cork.
Emergency Contact:
- Dial 112 or 999 if there is an immediate danger.
Helplines:
-
Samaritans (24/7):
Phone: 116 123 (free)
Email: [email protected] -
Pieta House (Suicide and Self-Harm Support):
Phone: 1800 247 247 (free)
Text: HELP to 51444 -
South Lee Mental Health Services (HSE):
Phone: +353 21 492 7000
Local Tips:
- Mental health services in Ireland are confidential and accessible. Donโt hesitate to reach out for help.
8. Utilities and Infrastructure Emergencies
For issues like gas leaks, power outages, or water supply problems, contact the relevant utility provider.
Gas Leaks:
- Phone: 1800 20 50 50 (Gas Networks Ireland; 24/7)
Electricity Outages:
- Phone: 1800 372 999 (ESB Networks; 24/7)
Water Supply Issues:
- Phone: 1800 278 278 (Irish Water; 24/7)
Local Tips:
- Report utility emergencies immediately to prevent further damage or danger.
9. Embassy and Consular Assistance
If you are a foreign national in Cork and require consular assistance, contact your countryโs embassy or consulate. Most embassies are located in Dublin, but they can provide support remotely.
Example: U.S. Embassy in Dublin
- Phone: +353 1 668 8777
- Website: ie.usembassy.gov
10. Additional Tips for Using Emergency Services in Cork
- Language: Emergency operators speak English and Irish. If you are not fluent, speak slowly and clearly.
- Stay Calm: In emergencies, staying calm and providing accurate information is crucial.
- Save Key Numbers: Store important non-emergency numbers in your phone for quick access.
By familiarizing yourself with these emergency contacts and procedures, you can ensure your safety and well-being while in Cork, Ireland.