Emergency number quick-dial

France has 5 emergency numbers and you should know what each does. The tourist trip meter allocates 5% of mental space to "what number to call when?" — this tool gives you the cheat sheet.

What just happened?

What this tool actually solves

Three numbers do most of the work: 15 (SAMU = medical), 17 (police), 18 (fire). Plus the EU: 112. Plus 114 for SMS-only access. Plus 115 for shelter. Confusing them wastes 5–10 minutes in a crisis.

How to read the result

Each result gives the right number, what to say, and the typical wait time. English-speaking operators are usually available; French is faster.

Limitations

Wait times are 2024–2025 averages. SAMU 15 has a 2–5 min average wait, sometimes 20+ min during major events. Don't wait on the phone if you can get to a hospital by taxi — the wait for a GP/SAMU is sometimes longer than the wait at the hospital.

FAQ

Will the operator speak English?

Mostly yes — Paris 17 and 18 are well-staffed with English. 15 (SAMU) is variable; stay calm and say "I'm English-speaking" / "I don't speak French" — they'll switch or get a translator.

What about the European 112?

112 routes to the same dispatch but with translation guaranteed. Use 112 if you don't know which; use 15/17/18 if you do.

About

1 of 38 tools in France Trip Toolkit. Independent. All numbers verified against Service-Public.fr 2025.

Privacy

No tracking.

Disclaimer

Estimate only. In a real emergency, dial the number immediately.