Valencia

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Emergency Services

Sections

1. General Emergency Number

  • 112: This is the universal emergency number in Spain, including Valencia. It connects you to all emergency services (police, fire, and medical) and is free to call from any phone, including mobile phones without credit or a SIM card.
  • Languages: Operators typically speak Spanish, Valencian, and English, and in some cases, other major European languages.

2. Police Services

Types of Police in Valencia

  1. Policía Nacional (National Police):

    • Responsible for general law enforcement, immigration matters, and serious crimes.
    • Contact: 091 (direct line for the National Police).

  2. Guardia Civil:

    • Handles rural areas, highways, and border control.
    • Contact: 062.

  3. Policía Local (Local Police):

    • Focuses on traffic control, local regulations, and minor incidents within the city.
    • Contact: 092.

When to Call the Police

  • For theft, assault, or other crimes.
  • To report lost or stolen documents (e.g., passports).
  • For traffic accidents or disturbances.

Procedure for Reporting a Crime

  • Call 112 or the specific police number.
  • Alternatively, visit a police station. Major stations in Valencia include:
    • Comisaría de Policía Nacional: Calle Hospital, 32.
    • Policía Local Headquarters: Avenida del Cid, 37.
  • If you are a victim of theft or crime, you may need to file a report (denuncia) in person. Bring identification and any relevant details.

Local Considerations

  • Pickpocketing can occur in tourist-heavy areas like the City of Arts and Sciences or the Central Market. Keep your belongings secure.
  • Police officers are generally approachable and professional. If you don’t speak Spanish, request an English-speaking officer.

3. Fire Services

  • Bomberos (Firefighters): Valencia’s fire services handle fires, rescues, and other emergencies like floods or hazardous material incidents.
  • Contact: 080 (direct line for fire services) or 112.

Local Considerations

  • Valencia is a city with many festivals, such as Las Fallas, which involve fireworks and bonfires. Fire safety is taken very seriously, and fire services are well-prepared for such events.
  • If you notice a fire or hazardous situation, evacuate the area and call 112 or 080 immediately.

4. Medical Services

Public Healthcare

  • Spain has an excellent public healthcare system, and Valencia is no exception. Emergency medical care is available to everyone, including non-residents.
  • Contact: 112 for medical emergencies.

Hospitals in Valencia

  1. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe:

    • One of the largest and most advanced hospitals in Spain.
    • Address: Avenida de Fernando Abril Martorell, 106.
    • Phone: +34 961 24 40 00.

  2. Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia:

    • Address: Avenida Blasco Ibáñez, 17.
    • Phone: +34 961 97 30 00.

  3. Hospital General Universitario de Valencia:

    • Address: Avenida Tres Cruces, 2.
    • Phone: +34 961 97 30 00.

Costs for Non-Residents

  • EU Citizens: If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can access emergency medical care for free or at a reduced cost.
  • Non-EU Citizens: You may need to pay for medical services upfront unless you have travel insurance that covers healthcare in Spain. Costs can vary:
    • Emergency room visit: €100–€300.
    • Ambulance: €50–€150.
    • Hospitalization: €300–€600 per day.

Pharmacies

  • Pharmacies (farmacias) are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications and advice. Look for a green cross sign.
  • For after-hours service, check the list of 24-hour pharmacies (farmacias de guardia) posted on pharmacy doors or online.

5. Ambulance Services

  • SAMU (Servicio de Asistencia Médica Urgente): Valencia’s emergency medical service.
  • Contact: 112 or 061 (direct line for medical emergencies).

Procedure for Accessing Ambulance Services

  1. Call 112 or 061 and provide the following:
    • Your location (be as specific as possible).
    • Nature of the emergency (e.g., injury, illness, accident).
    • Number of people involved.
  2. Follow the operator’s instructions. They may dispatch an ambulance or direct you to the nearest hospital.

6. Local Considerations and Tips

  1. Language Barrier:

    • While many emergency operators and healthcare professionals speak English, it’s helpful to know basic Spanish phrases, such as:
      • “Necesito ayuda” (I need help).
      • “Hay una emergencia” (There is an emergency).
      • “Estoy herido/a” (I am injured).

  2. Cultural Norms:

    • Spaniards are generally helpful and will assist you in an emergency. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for help if needed.
    • Emergency services are highly professional and efficient.

  3. Travel Insurance:

    • Always carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially if you are a non-EU citizen.

  4. Emergency Apps:

    • Consider downloading the My112 app, which allows you to contact emergency services and share your location directly.

  5. Stay Calm:

    • In any emergency, staying calm and providing clear information will help responders assist you more effectively.

7. Summary of Key Emergency Numbers

| Service | Number | |--------------------|---------| | General Emergency | 112 | | National Police | 091 | | Local Police | 092 | | Guardia Civil | 062 | | Fire Services | 080 | | Medical Emergencies | 061 |

By familiarizing yourself with these emergency services and procedures, you’ll be better prepared to handle any unexpected situations during your time in Valencia. Stay safe and enjoy your visit or stay in this beautiful city!