Gothenburg

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Emergency Services

Overview of emergency response including police, fire departments, and medical services in Gothenburg.

Sections

1. Overview of Emergency Services in Gothenburg

Sweden has a well-organized and efficient emergency response system, and Gothenburg, as the second-largest city in the country, is no exception. Emergency services are reliable, professional, and accessible to both residents and visitors. The three main emergency services are:

  • Police (Polisen): Responsible for law enforcement, public safety, and crime prevention.
  • Fire and Rescue Services (Räddningstjänsten): Handles fire emergencies, rescue operations, and disaster response.
  • Medical Services (Ambulanssjukvård): Provides emergency medical care and ambulance transport.

All emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, the universal emergency number in Sweden.

2. How to Contact Emergency Services

  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. This number is free of charge and operates 24/7.
  • Non-Emergency Numbers:
    • Police (Non-Urgent Matters): Dial 114 14 for non-urgent police assistance, such as reporting a crime that is not in progress.
    • Healthcare Advice (Non-Emergency): Dial 1177 to speak with a nurse for medical advice or guidance on where to seek care.
    • Fire Department (Non-Emergency): Contact the local fire station directly for non-urgent inquiries (e.g., fire safety advice).

When calling 112, you will be connected to an operator who will ask:

  1. What has happened?
  2. Where are you? (Provide the address or a clear description of your location.)
  3. Who needs help? (Provide details about the people involved.)

The operator will dispatch the appropriate service(s) based on your answers.

3. Costs Involved

  • Police Services: Free of charge for all emergency and non-emergency assistance.
  • Fire and Rescue Services: Free for emergency response. However, if you request non-emergency services (e.g., fire safety inspections for private events), there may be a fee.
  • Medical Services:
    • Emergency medical care is not free for visitors without EU/EEA health insurance or a reciprocal healthcare agreement.
    • EU/EEA Citizens: If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), emergency medical care is provided at the same cost as for Swedish residents.
    • Non-EU/EEA Citizens: You will be billed for emergency medical services. Costs can vary but typically range from SEK 400–1,200 for an emergency room visit, plus additional charges for ambulance transport (approximately SEK 1,200–2,000).
    • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended for non-EU/EEA visitors to have travel insurance to cover medical emergencies.

4. Procedures to Follow in Emergencies

Medical Emergency

  1. Dial 112 and request an ambulance.
  2. Provide clear information about the patient’s condition and location.
  3. If possible, administer basic first aid while waiting for the ambulance.
  4. Bring identification and any relevant medical documents (e.g., prescriptions, EHIC card) to the hospital.

Fire Emergency

  1. Dial 112 and report the fire.
  2. Evacuate the building immediately and follow fire safety signs (marked "UTGÅNG" for exits).
  3. Do not use elevators during a fire.
  4. Wait for the fire department to arrive and follow their instructions.

Crime or Safety Emergency

  1. Dial 112 and request police assistance.
  2. Provide details about the incident, including descriptions of individuals involved, if applicable.
  3. If you are a victim of theft or assault, file a police report as soon as possible. This can also be done at a local police station or online (for non-urgent cases).

5. Local Considerations and Cultural Aspects

  • Language: Operators at 112 speak Swedish and English. If you do not speak either language, they will arrange for an interpreter.
  • Calm and Clear Communication: Swedes value calmness and efficiency. When calling emergency services, remain as calm and clear as possible to ensure quick assistance.
  • Fire Safety Awareness: Gothenburg has strict fire safety regulations. Public buildings and accommodations are equipped with fire alarms and extinguishers. Familiarize yourself with fire exits in your accommodation.
  • Crime Rates: Gothenburg is generally safe, but petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas (e.g., Central Station, Nordstan shopping mall). Always stay vigilant and secure your belongings.
  • Alcohol and Emergencies: If you are intoxicated and require medical assistance, you will still receive care without judgment. However, public intoxication is frowned upon, and police may intervene if you pose a risk to yourself or others.
  • Mental Health Emergencies: Sweden takes mental health seriously. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call 112 or contact a psychiatric emergency service (Psykiatrisk Akutmottagning) at Sahlgrenska University Hospital.

6. Additional Resources

  • Local Police Stations: Visit the Gothenburg Police Headquarters at Ernst Fontells Plats 15 for in-person assistance.
  • Hospitals with Emergency Departments:
    • Sahlgrenska University Hospital (Sahlgrenska Universitetssjukhuset): The largest hospital in Gothenburg, located at Blå Stråket 5.
    • Östra Hospital (Östra Sjukhuset): Another major hospital, located at Diagnosvägen 11.
  • Fire Safety Information: Visit the website of the Gothenburg Fire and Rescue Service (Räddningstjänsten Storgöteborg) for fire safety tips and resources.

7. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Save Key Numbers: Program 112, 114 14, and 1177 into your phone for quick access.
  • Learn Basic Swedish Phrases: While English is widely spoken, knowing phrases like "Hjälp!" (Help!) or "Jag behöver en ambulans" (I need an ambulance) can be useful.
  • Carry Identification: Always have your ID or passport with you, as it may be required during emergencies.
  • Stay Informed: Download the Krisinformation.se app for real-time updates on emergencies and safety alerts in Sweden.

By understanding how emergency services work in Gothenburg and following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more prepared experience in the city.