Galway

Emergency Services in Galway, Ireland

In Ireland, including Galway, emergency services are well-organized and accessible. The main emergency services include the police (Gardaí), fire brigade, and ambulance services. Below is a detailed breakdown:

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1. Emergency Contact Numbers

Ireland uses a universal emergency number system. The following numbers are critical:

• 112 (European Emergency Number): This is the primary emergency number across the EU, including Ireland. It connects you to all emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, and coast guard).
• 999: This is also an emergency number in Ireland and works the same as 112.

Both numbers are free to call from any phone, including mobile phones without credit or a SIM card.

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2. Emergency Services Overview

a. Police (An Garda Síochána)

• Role: The Gardaí handle law enforcement, public safety, and crime prevention.
• Local Garda Stations in Galway:
  • Mill Street Garda Station (Main Station)
    Address: Mill Street, Galway City
    Phone: +353 91 538 000
    Open 24/7.
  • Salthill Garda Station
    Address: Salthill, Galway City
    Phone: +353 91 514 720
    Open during specific hours (check in advance).

b. Fire Brigade

• Role: The fire brigade handles fire emergencies, road traffic accidents, and other rescue operations.
• Galway Fire Station:
  Address: Father Griffin Road, Galway City
  Phone (non-emergency): +353 91 570 900
  For emergencies, always call 112 or 999.

c. Ambulance Services

• Role: Ambulances provide emergency medical assistance and transport to hospitals.
• Provider: The National Ambulance Service (NAS) operates in Galway.
• Emergency Contact: Call 112 or 999 for an ambulance.
• Non-Emergency Medical Transport: For non-urgent medical transport, you can contact the NAS directly at +353 1 463 1380.

d. Coast Guard

• Role: The Irish Coast Guard handles maritime emergencies, including rescues at sea.
• Emergency Contact: Call 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.

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3. Costs for Emergency Services

• Police and Fire Services: These services are free of charge in emergencies.
• Ambulance Services:
  • Emergency ambulance services are not free in Ireland.
  • The standard charge for an ambulance call-out is €100 (as of 2023).
  • If you have private health insurance, this cost may be covered, so check with your provider.
  • Medical cardholders (issued to low-income residents) are exempt from ambulance fees.

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4. Procedures to Follow in Emergencies

1. Stay Calm: Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
2. Call 112 or 999: Provide the following information:
   • Your name and contact number.
   • The exact location of the emergency (use landmarks if possible).
   • The nature of the emergency (e.g., fire, medical, crime).
   • Any additional details (e.g., number of people involved, injuries, hazards).
3. Follow Instructions: The operator will guide you on what to do until help arrives.
4. Stay on the Line: Do not hang up until the operator tells you to.

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5. Local Considerations and Tips for Galway

• Language: English is the primary language used by emergency services. However, Irish (Gaeilge) is also an official language. Emergency operators are trained to handle calls in both languages.
• Mobile Phones: Ensure your mobile phone is charged and has credit. However, you can call 112 or 999 even without credit or a SIM card.
• Location Awareness: Galway has many rural areas and coastal regions. If you're in a remote area, try to provide precise location details (e.g., GPS coordinates or nearby landmarks).
• Hospitals in Galway:
  • University Hospital Galway (UHG):
    Address: Newcastle Road, Galway City
    Phone: +353 91 524 222
    UHG has a 24/7 Emergency Department (A&E) for serious medical emergencies.
    Note: Expect waiting times in the A&E for non-life-threatening issues.
• Pharmacies: For minor medical issues, pharmacies in Galway can provide advice and over-the-counter medications. Many pharmacies in the city center are open late.

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6. Additional Emergency Resources

• Poison Information:
  • Contact the National Poisons Information Centre at +353 1 809 2166 (for medical professionals).
  • In emergencies, call 112 or 999.
• Mental Health Crisis:
  • Samaritans Ireland: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7).
  • Pieta House (Suicide and Self-Harm Support): Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444.
• Roadside Assistance:
  • If you experience a vehicle breakdown, contact your roadside assistance provider. Popular services include:
    • AA Ireland: 0818 667 788
    • RAC Ireland: +353 1 617 9104

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7. Emergency Preparedness Tips for Visitors

• Save Key Numbers: Program 112, 999, and local Garda station numbers into your phone.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation.
• Know Your Location: Familiarize yourself with your accommodation’s address and nearby landmarks.
• First Aid Kit: Carry a small first aid kit, especially if exploring rural or coastal areas.
• Weather Awareness: Galway’s weather can be unpredictable. Check forecasts and heed warnings, especially for storms or high tides.

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By keeping this information handy, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any emergency situation in Galway. If you need further assistance or clarification, feel free to ask!