Vasteras

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Emergency Services

Information on police, fire departments, medical emergencies, and how to contact emergency services in Vasteras.

Sections

1. Categories of Emergency Services in Västerås

Sweden has a unified emergency response system, and the following services are available in Västerås:

a. Police (Polisen)

  • Role: The police handle law enforcement, crime prevention, public safety, and traffic-related incidents.
  • Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies or 114 14 for non-urgent matters (e.g., reporting a crime that is not in progress).
  • Local Police Station:
    • Address: Västgötegatan 7, 722 11 Västerås
    • Opening Hours: Typically weekdays, but check the website for updated hours.
    • Website: www.polisen.se

b. Fire and Rescue Services (Räddningstjänsten)

  • Role: The fire department responds to fires, accidents, hazardous material incidents, and rescue operations.
  • Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies.
  • Local Fire Station:

c. Medical Services (Ambulanssjukvård)

  • Role: Ambulance services provide emergency medical care and transport to hospitals.
  • Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies.
  • Nearest Hospital:
    • Västmanlands Sjukhus Västerås
    • Address: Centrallasarettet, 721 89 Västerås
    • Emergency Department (Akutmottagning): Open 24/7
    • Website: Region Västmanland

d. Poison Information (Giftinformation)

  • Role: Provides advice on poisoning incidents.
  • Contact: Dial 112 in emergencies or 010-456 6700 for non-urgent poison-related inquiries.
  • Website: Giftinformationscentralen

e. Sea and Water Rescue (Sjöräddning)

  • Role: Handles emergencies on lakes and waterways, including Lake Mälaren, which surrounds Västerås.
  • Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies.
  • Website: Swedish Sea Rescue Society

2. How to Contact Emergency Services

  • Universal Emergency Number: Dial 112 for all emergencies (police, fire, ambulance, or rescue). This number is free and works 24/7.
  • Languages: Operators speak Swedish and English. If you do not speak either language, they will connect you to an interpreter.
  • Non-Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 114 14
    • Healthcare Advice (Non-Emergency): 1177 (Vårdguiden)

3. Procedures to Follow in an Emergency

  1. Assess the Situation:

    • Ensure your safety before calling for help.
    • If possible, move to a safe location.

  2. Call 112:

    • Clearly state your name, location, and the nature of the emergency.
    • Provide as much detail as possible (e.g., number of people involved, injuries, fire size, etc.).
    • Stay on the line until the operator confirms they have all the information.

  3. Follow Instructions:

    • The operator may provide instructions (e.g., performing CPR, evacuating a building, etc.) while help is on the way.

  4. Wait for Help:

    • Emergency services in Västerås are highly efficient, and response times are generally quick.

4. Costs Associated with Emergency Services

  • Ambulance Services:

    • Ambulance transport is not free. The cost is approximately 400–1,200 SEK depending on the situation and region. However, this is often covered by Swedish health insurance or the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for EU/EEA citizens.
    • Visitors from outside the EU/EEA should check their travel insurance for coverage.

  • Hospital Emergency Care:

    • A visit to the emergency department costs around 400–500 SEK for those without Swedish health insurance.
    • Children under 18 and pregnant women often receive free care.

  • Police and Fire Services:

    • These services are free of charge for emergencies.

5. Local Considerations and Cultural Aspects

  • Language: Most emergency responders in Västerås speak English fluently, so language barriers are minimal. However, learning a few basic Swedish phrases (e.g., "Hjälp!" for "Help!") can be useful.
  • Efficiency: Swedish emergency services are highly professional and efficient. Trust their instructions and cooperate fully.
  • Personal Identification: Always carry an ID (passport or Swedish personal number card) as it may be required during emergencies.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Swedes are well-prepared for emergencies. Public buildings and transport hubs often have defibrillators (marked as "Hjärtstartare") and first aid kits.
  • Fire Alarms: If you hear a fire alarm in a public building, evacuate immediately. Fire drills are common, and people take them seriously.
  • Weather-Related Emergencies: Västerås experiences cold winters, so be cautious of ice-related accidents. In case of severe weather, follow local news or download the Krisinformation app for updates.

6. Additional Resources

  • Krisinformation.se: A government website providing real-time updates on emergencies and safety tips. www.krisinformation.se
  • Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB): Offers information on disaster preparedness. www.msb.se
  • Vårdguiden 1177: For non-emergency medical advice. www.1177.se

7. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Download Useful Apps:
    • 112 Sweden: Helps you share your location with emergency services.
    • Krisinformation: Provides alerts and safety information.
    • 1177 Vårdguiden: For healthcare advice and services.
  • Emergency Numbers Abroad: If you are using a foreign SIM card, ensure it is configured to dial 112 in Sweden.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Swedes value calmness and order. In emergencies, try to remain composed and follow instructions carefully.

By familiarizing yourself with these details, you can feel confident and prepared to handle emergencies in Västerås. If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!