Limerick

1. General Emergency Number

In Ireland, including Limerick, the universal emergency number is 112 or 999.

• Who to call: This number connects you to police (Gardaí), fire services, ambulance, and coast guard.
• How to use: Dial 112 or 999 from any phone (mobile or landline). The call is free of charge.
• Procedure:
  1. State your emergency clearly (e.g., "I need an ambulance," "There’s a fire," or "I need the police").
  2. Provide your location as precisely as possible. If you’re unsure, describe landmarks or use GPS coordinates if available.
  3. Follow the operator’s instructions.

Local Tip:

• If you’re using a mobile phone, you can call 112 even if you have no credit or signal from your network provider.
• 112 is the European emergency number and works across the EU.

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2. Police (An Garda Síochána)

The police force in Ireland is called An Garda Síochána (commonly referred to as "Gardaí"). They handle law enforcement, public safety, and crime prevention.

• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 or 999 and ask for the police.
• Non-Emergency Contact: For non-urgent matters, you can contact the local Garda station in Limerick:
  • Henry Street Garda Station (Main Station):
    • Phone: +353 61 212 400
    • Address: Henry Street, Limerick City, V94 E997
  • Roxboro Road Garda Station:
    • Phone: +353 61 214 340
    • Address: Roxboro Road, Limerick City, V94 NYD3

Local Tip:

• If you lose your passport or experience theft, report it to the Gardaí immediately. They will provide a report, which is essential for insurance claims or replacement documents.

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3. Fire Services

The Limerick Fire and Rescue Service handles fire emergencies, road traffic accidents, and other rescue operations.

• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 or 999 and ask for the fire service.
• Non-Emergency Contact:
  • Limerick Fire Station (HQ):
    • Phone: +353 61 417 833
    • Address: Mulgrave Street, Limerick City, V94 F788

Procedure in Case of Fire:

1. Evacuate the building immediately.
2. Call 112 or 999 from a safe location.
3. Provide details about the fire (e.g., location, type of building, and whether people are trapped).

Local Tip:

• Smoke alarms are mandatory in residential properties in Ireland. Ensure your accommodation has functioning alarms.

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4. Ambulance and Medical Emergencies

Ambulance services in Limerick are provided by the National Ambulance Service (NAS).

• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 or 999 and ask for an ambulance.
• Non-Emergency Medical Assistance:
  • University Hospital Limerick (Main Hospital):
    • Phone: +353 61 301 111
    • Address: Dooradoyle, Limerick, V94 F858
  • Shannondoc (Out-of-Hours GP Service):
    • Phone: 0818 123 500
    • Website: www.shannondoc.ie

Costs:

• Emergency ambulance services are free for life-threatening situations.
• For non-emergency transport, there may be a fee (approximately €100).
• If you’re a visitor, ensure you have travel insurance to cover medical costs.

Local Tip:

• Pharmacies in Limerick can provide advice for minor ailments. Many are open late, and some offer 24-hour services.

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5. Coast Guard and Water Rescue

If you encounter an emergency on the River Shannon or other waterways, the Irish Coast Guard and local rescue services can assist.

• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 or 999 and ask for the coast guard.
• Local Water Rescue Service:
  • Limerick Marine Search and Rescue Service:
    • Phone: +353 86 814 8228
    • Website: www.limerickmarinesearchandrescue.ie

Local Tip:

• Be cautious near the River Shannon, especially during high tides or bad weather. Always follow safety signage.

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6. Poisoning or Toxic Exposure

For cases of poisoning or toxic exposure, contact the National Poisons Information Centre.

• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 or 999 if the person is unconscious or in immediate danger.
• Non-Emergency Contact:
  • Phone: +353 1 809 2166 (Available 24/7 for healthcare professionals and the public).

Procedure:

1. Identify the substance involved (e.g., medication, chemical).
2. Follow the operator’s instructions carefully.

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7. Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, there are services available:

• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 or 999 if there is an immediate danger.
• Non-Emergency Support:
  • Pieta House (Suicide Prevention):
    • Phone: 1800 247 247 (Free 24/7 helpline)
    • Text: HELP to 51444
    • Website: www.pieta.ie
  • Samaritans Ireland:
    • Phone: 116 123 (Free 24/7 helpline)
    • Website: www.samaritans.org

Local Tip:

• Mental health services in Ireland are confidential and accessible to everyone, including visitors.

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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 Tip:

• If you smell gas, turn off the supply, open windows, and avoid using electrical switches before calling the emergency number.

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9. Embassies and Consulates

If you’re a foreign national in Limerick and require assistance, contact your embassy or consulate. While most embassies are located in Dublin, they can provide remote support or direct you to local resources.

• Emergency Passport Assistance: Contact your embassy immediately if your passport is lost or stolen.

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10. Local Considerations and Tips

• Language: Emergency operators speak English and Irish. If you’re not fluent, speak slowly and clearly.
• Mobile Phones: Save key local numbers in your phone for quick access.
• Cultural Note: Irish people are generally helpful. If you’re in distress, don’t hesitate to ask locals for assistance.

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By keeping this information handy, you’ll be well-prepared to handle emergencies during your time in Limerick, Ireland. Stay safe!