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Unforeseen circumstances or difficulties can sometimes arise during a stay in Paris. Here you'll find all the practical information you need to manage these tricky situations and make any administrative formalities easier, as well as advice on how to make the most of your visit to the capital.
It is important to know the emergency numbers. In France, the European emergency number is 112, but for specific situations such as accidents or serious medical situations, telephone 15 (SAMU) or 18 (Pompiers de Paris). These numbers are free to call from any telephone, landline or mobile. Pharmacies, which can be identified by their illuminated green cross, are generally open from 8am to 8pm, and some may be on call on Sundays or late at night. Hospitals in Paris provide a 24/7 service. Finally, some doctors offer consultations in English.
| Number | Service | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 18 | Fire Brigade | Fires, accidents and emergency assistance |
| 17 | Gendarmerie / Police | Assistance in cases of violence, theft or assault |
| 15 | SAMU | Medical emergencies and urgent medical assistance |
| 112 | EU Emergency Number | Single European emergency number |
| 114 | Deaf and Hard of Hearing | Emergency number accessible via text message or fax |
| 3114 | Suicide Prevention | Support and assistance for people in distress |
| 197 | Terrorist Attack / Kidnapping | Alert in the event of a terrorist attack or kidnapping |
| 119 | Child in danger | Child abuse and protection |
| 115 | Emergency accommodation | Social emergency services for the homeless |
| 3919 | Violence against women | Support and guidance for women who are victims of violence |
| 3018 | Cyberbullying | Support for victims of online abuse |
Paris has several police stations throughout the city that can help you in the event of an attack or burglary. Central police stations are open 24/24, 7/7. If you need immediate assistance, you can contact the Police-emergency service on 17 from a French telephone.
Many countries have foreign embassies and consulates in Paris that can assist their nationals in case of need or unforeseen circumstances. It is useful to know where they are located, as some situations require you to travel to their premises. Depending on the embassy, you can obtain information via their website or contact them by telephone.
Paris is offering free legal advice during the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
A few common-sense rules and being vigilant will help you enjoy your visit to the capital with complete peace of mind. Make sure you keep a copy of your identity papers, put your travel documents in a safe place, avoid carrying large sums of money in cash, be careful in crowded places and don't hesitate to ask the locals or the authorities for help if you need it.
Learning to get your bearings easily in Paris and have a better idea of the layout of the capital
