Hi, it's Rémi! I hope you're well.
When you arrive in a new country, you think about finding accommodation, opening a bank account, getting your papers in order... But there's one very important thing you often forget: knowing the emergency numbers. As a foreign student in France, it's essential to know who to call in case of trouble. Whether it's an accident, illness, harassment or mental health problem, here's a complete list of numbers you absolutely need to know.
The 3 main emergency numbers
112 - The European emergency number
It's the universal number to remember. Anywhere in Europe, you can call 112 for an emergency. It's free of charge, and can be called from a cell phone or payphone, even without a call plan. An operator will direct you to the appropriate service: police, fire department, ambulance...
15 - SAMU (Emergency Medical Service)
If you feel unwell, see someone down in the street or witness a medical accident, call us. Call 15. This number is reserved for serious medical emergencies: loss of consciousness, chest pain, major injury, etc.
18 - Fire brigade
For fires, road accidents, floods or personal rescue, dial 18. The fire department can also intervene in support of medical assistance.
In case of danger or psychological distress
17 - Police rescue
Are you the victim or witness of an assault, robbery or dangerous situation? Call 17 to contact the police directly.
114 - Emergencies by SMS
If you can't speak (e.g. mute witness, silent danger situation), you can text 114. This is a useful service for people who are deaf or in situations where they need to remain discreet.
3114 - Suicidal crisis or malaise
Are you feeling down, depressed or having gloomy thoughts? Or do you know someone who does? Call 3114, a free number available 24 hours a day, to speak to a professional. It's anonymous and confidential.
In the event of harassment or violence
3919 - Violence against women
This number is for women who are victims of domestic, psychological, sexual or verbal violence. It's free, anonymous and confidential. You can call for yourself or for someone else.
3018 - Cyberbullying and online violence
If you're a victim of online harassment, threats on social networks, revenge porn or identity theft, call 3018. They can help you react, support you and have content removed.
119 - Children in danger
If you witness abuse of a minor, or if you're concerned yourself, call 119. This number also works if you're hosting a child in a shared flat or with a foster family.
In the event of health concerns or access to care
36 24 - SOS Doctors
You need a doctor fast, but it's not a life-threatening emergency? Call SOS Médecins on 36 24. Doctors can come to your home, even on evenings, weekends and public holidays.
0 800 130 000 - Info santé publique
This is the number set up by Santé Publique France. It is useful in the event of an epidemic, health alert or question about a treatment. (e.g. COVID-19, vaccines, STIs...)
Practical tip
Save these numbers in your phone in advance, with clear names ("SAMU", "Police", "Violences femmes"...), and don't hesitate to share them with your roommates or foreign friends.
You can also use the " Urgence 114 " application, which centralizes all these services on your phone.
