Zaragoza

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Emergency Services

Sections

1. General Emergency Number

  • 112: This is the universal emergency number in Spain and the European Union. It connects you to all emergency services, including police, fire, and medical assistance. Operators can assist in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and French.
    • When to call: Use this number for any life-threatening situation or if you are unsure which service to contact.
    • Cost: Free of charge.
    • Procedure: Dial 112, explain the situation clearly, provide your location, and follow the operator's instructions.

2. Police Services

Types of Police in Zaragoza

  1. Policía Nacional (National Police):

    • Responsible for urban areas, including crime prevention, immigration matters, and issuing residence permits.
    • Contact: 091 (direct line for the National Police).
    • Local Office: Comisaría de Policía Nacional, Calle General Mayandía, 2, Zaragoza.

  2. Guardia Civil:

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

  3. Policía Local (Local Police):

    • Focuses on traffic control, local regulations, and minor incidents within Zaragoza.
    • Contact: 092 (direct line for Local Police in Zaragoza).

Procedure:

  • For immediate police assistance, call 112 or the specific police number (091, 092, or 062).
  • If you need to report a crime (e.g., theft or assault), you can visit the nearest police station. Bring your ID or passport and any relevant documents.
  • Cultural Tip: Police officers in Spain are generally approachable and professional. If you don’t speak Spanish, ask for an English-speaking officer or interpreter.

Costs:

  • Police services are free of charge.

3. Fire Services

  • Contact: 080 (direct line for the fire department) or 112.
  • Responsibilities: Firefighting, rescue operations, and responding to hazardous material incidents.
  • Local Fire Stations:
    • Parque de Bomberos Zaragoza, Calle Valle de Broto, 16, Zaragoza.

Procedure:

  • Call 112 or 080 in case of a fire or rescue emergency. Provide your location and describe the situation.
  • Firefighters in Zaragoza are highly trained and respond quickly.

Costs:

  • Emergency fire services are free for residents and visitors. However, non-emergency services (e.g., inspections) may incur fees.

4. Medical Services

Emergency Medical Assistance

  • Contact: 061 (direct line for medical emergencies) or 112.
  • Services: Ambulance dispatch, urgent medical care, and coordination with hospitals.

Hospitals in Zaragoza:

  1. Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet:
    • Address: Paseo Isabel la Católica, 1-3, Zaragoza.
    • Specializes in general and emergency care.
  2. Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa:
    • Address: Av. San Juan Bosco, 15, Zaragoza.
    • Known for its advanced medical facilities.
  3. Hospital Royo Villanova:
    • Address: Av. Cataluña, 60, Zaragoza.
    • Offers emergency and specialized care.

Pharmacies:

  • Pharmacies in Zaragoza are marked with a green cross. Many operate 24/7 on a rotating basis. Look for signs indicating "Farmacia de Guardia" for the nearest open pharmacy.

Procedure:

  • For life-threatening medical emergencies, call 112 or 061. Ambulances are dispatched promptly.
  • For non-urgent medical issues, visit a local health center ("Centro de Salud") or hospital emergency room.
  • Cultural Tip: Spanish healthcare professionals are highly skilled, but English proficiency may vary. Bring a translation app or phrasebook if you don’t speak Spanish.

Costs:

  • EU Citizens: If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), most emergency medical services are free or low-cost.
  • Non-EU Citizens: Emergency care is provided regardless of insurance status, but you may be billed later. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover costs.

5. Other Emergency Services

Poison Control

  • Contact: 91 562 04 20 (National Poison Control Center).
  • Procedure: Call this number for advice on poisoning incidents, including ingestion of toxic substances or medication overdoses.

Electricity or Gas Emergencies

  • Contact: Endesa (electricity): 800 760 909.
  • Contact: Naturgy (gas): 900 750 750.
  • Procedure: Report power outages, gas leaks, or other utility emergencies.

6. Procedures for Accessing Emergency Services

  1. Stay Calm: Clearly explain the situation and provide your location (street name, landmarks, etc.).
  2. Language Barrier: If you don’t speak Spanish, ask for an English-speaking operator or use simple phrases.
  3. Follow Instructions: Emergency responders will guide you on what to do until help arrives.

7. Local Considerations and Cultural Tips

  • Documentation: Always carry a copy of your ID or passport, as it may be required when accessing services.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Spaniards are generally helpful and understanding in emergencies. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from bystanders if needed.
  • Traffic Laws: If you’re involved in a traffic accident, remain at the scene and call 112. Leaving the scene can result in legal consequences.
  • Pickpocketing: While Zaragoza is relatively safe, petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Report thefts to the police immediately.

8. Long-Term Security Needs

  • Insurance: Ensure you have travel or health insurance to cover medical expenses and other emergencies.
  • Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency numbers and the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in Spain.
  • Local Support: Familiarize yourself with local expat groups or community organizations for additional support.

By keeping this information handy, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any emergency situation in Zaragoza. Stay safe and enjoy your time in this beautiful city!