Emergency numbers and when to call each service in China
Crucial Emergency Phrases for Medical Dialogues in Chinese: Emergency numbers and when to call each service in China
In China, the main emergency numbers are:
- 110 for Police: Call for crimes such as theft, assault, robbery, public order issues, and any immediate police assistance needed. Suitable for reporting dangerous situations or needing help in emergencies.
- 120 for Ambulance/Medical Emergency: Call when someone is seriously ill, injured, or requires urgent medical attention or ambulance transport.
- 119 for Fire and Rescue: Call if there is a fire, gas leak, or any emergency requiring fire department assistance or rescue services.
- 122 for Traffic Accident Reports: Call to report traffic accidents so the traffic police can assist at the scene.
- 12110 for Police SMS Alarm: For those who have difficulties calling or need to send a text to the police (e.g., deaf or mute).
When to call each:
- Call 110 if you face a crime, need police presence due to a threat, or public safety is at risk.
- Call 120 for medical emergencies like sudden illness or serious injuries requiring first aid or an ambulance.
- Call 119 if there is a fire outbreak, gas leak, or need for fire rescue.
- Call 122 specifically for traffic accidents to have traffic police dispatched.
- Use 12110 SMS for non-verbal emergency communication to the police.
Emergency calls are free of charge in China. When calling, clearly state the location (street, landmarks, or nearby buildings) and explain the nature of the emergency calmly and precisely. Some major cities have English-speaking operators for 110 and 120, but it is advised to seek assistance from a local or hotel staff if language is a barrier. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Additional useful numbers include 114 for telephone inquiries and 12395 for maritime search and rescue emergencies.
This summary covers the key emergency numbers and their specific uses in China to help ensure the right service is contacted in any urgent situation.