Tip 1: 112 is the best number to call as EU emergency operators are…

112 is the best number to call as EU emergency operators are multilingual

Tip 2: SAMU (15) and Pompiers (18) both respond to medical emergenc…

SAMU (15) and Pompiers (18) both respond to medical emergencies — call either

Tip 3: Police (17) for crime, theft, disturbances

Police (17) for crime, theft, disturbances

Tip 4: 114 is a text/SMS emergency line for those unable to speak

114 is a text/SMS emergency line for those unable to speak

Tip 5: Your embassy emergency line is important for situations invo…

Your embassy emergency line is important for situations involving your legal status

🇫🇷

🚨Emergency Numbers

How Does Emergency Numbers Work in France?

Last verified: 2025-01 · Europe

1The Quick Answer

✅Quick Answer

SAMU (medical): 15. Police: 17. Fire (Pompiers): 18. EU universal: 112.

2What You Need to Know

France uses both national and EU-standard emergency numbers. SAMU (Service d'Aide Médicale Urgente) on 15 handles medical emergencies and coordinates ambulances. Police nationale is 17. Fire brigade (Pompiers) is 18 — note that in France, the pompiers also handle many medical emergencies and have paramedic training. The universal EU number 112 works for all emergencies and is recommended for tourists as operators typically speak multiple languages. Text emergency via 114 is available for people who are deaf or cannot speak.

3Practical Tips

Practical Tips

1112 is the best number to call as EU emergency operators are multilingual
2SAMU (15) and Pompiers (18) both respond to medical emergencies — call either
3Police (17) for crime, theft, disturbances
4114 is a text/SMS emergency line for those unable to speak
5Your embassy emergency line is important for situations involving your legal status

How does this compare?

Emergency Numbers rules in nearby and similar countries:

🇩🇪

GermanyNormal

Police: 110. Ambulance & Fire: 112. Medical non-emergency: 116117. All EU emergency: 112.

🇬🇧

UKNormal

Emergency: 999 (or 112). Non-emergency police: 101. NHS non-emergency medical: 111.

🇮🇹

ItalyNormal

Police: 113 or 112. Ambulance: 118. Fire: 115. Carabinieri (military police): 112.

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More About France

💰Tipping🔥

Normal

Tipping is not obligatory in France. A service charge is included in all restaurant bills by law. Round up or leave 5–10% for genuinely good service.

Updated 2025-01

🚇Public Transport

Warning

Paris has an excellent Metro. Buy a carnet (book of 10 tickets) or a Navigo Easy card. SNCF runs intercity trains — book TGV early for big discounts.

Updated 2025-01

🏥Tourist Healthcare

Normal

France has excellent healthcare. EU citizens use EHIC for reduced-cost care. Non-EU tourists pay upfront and claim back via insurance. Pharmacists are very helpful.

Updated 2025-01

⚖️Local Laws

Warning

Carry ID at all times. Face coverings in public are banned. Photography laws protect individuals. Speed cameras are everywhere.

Updated 2025-01

👗Dress Code

Normal

France is fashionable but relaxed. Smart-casual for restaurants. Modesty required at churches. Avoid overly casual sportswear in Paris restaurants.

Updated 2025-01

🍺Alcohol Rules

Normal

Drinking age is 18. Alcohol is freely available in shops 24/7. Wine with meals is culturally embedded. Drink-driving limit is 0.05% BAC.

Updated 2025-01

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