How Does Emergency Numbers Work in Netherlands?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Europe
1The Quick Answer
Dial 112 for all emergencies (police, fire, ambulance); for non-urgent police matters call 0900-8844.
2What You Need to Know
The single EU-wide emergency number 112 connects to police, fire brigade, and ambulance services and is free from any phone including mobiles without a SIM card. Operators speak Dutch and English. For non-emergency police issues such as reporting theft or minor incidents, call 0900-8844 (charged at local rates). The coastguard emergency number is 0900-0111. If you require out-of-hours medical advice without an emergency, contact the local huisartsenpost or call 088-0090900 for the national doctor's line.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Save 112 in your phone before you arrive — it works from any mobile even without a local SIM or credit.
- 2Report pickpocketing or bike theft to the non-emergency police line 0900-8844 or at a local police station; this is needed for insurance claims.
- 3For urgent but non-life-threatening medical issues after hours, find the nearest huisartsenpost (out-of-hours GP) rather than calling 112.
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