Essential Emergency Numbers and Contacts for Daily Assistance in Paris

Essential Emergency Numbers and Contacts for Daily Assistance in Paris


When you move to a new country, especially a bustling city like Paris, having access to emergency numbers and daily assistance contacts can provide peace of mind. From health emergencies to daily needs, knowing who to call can make all the difference. This guide highlights the essential numbers and resources every expat in Paris should know, along with real-life examples to show how these services can come to your aid.

Meet Tom: A First-Time Emergency in Paris
Tom, an expat from Canada, had been living in Paris for only two weeks when he found himself in an unexpected situation. “I was cooking dinner when I accidentally cut my hand pretty badly,” he recalls. Unsure of who to call or where to go, Tom panicked. Fortunately, his French neighbour stepped in and gave him the emergency number for medical assistance. “They connected me to an English-speaking operator, and within 20 minutes, help arrived,” Tom shares. Tom’s story is a reminder of how crucial it is to have a list of reliable contacts, whether for emergencies or everyday needs.
1. Emergency Numbers Everyone Should Know
France has a well-organized emergency response system with dedicated numbers for various situations. Make sure to save these numbers in your phone:
Medical Emergencies: 15 (SAMU)
For life-threatening situations or urgent medical assistance. Operators can guide you to the nearest hospital or dispatch an ambulance.
Police: 17
 – For reporting crimes or situations requiring immediate police intervention.
Fire Brigade: 18 (Pompiers)
 – Not just for fires – firefighters in France also respond to medical emergencies, accidents, and rescue situations.
European Emergency Number: 112
- A universal number across Europe for all types of emergencies. Operators speak multiple languages, including English.
Poison Control Center: +33 (0)1 40 05 48 48
- For immediate advice in case of poisoning or chemical exposure.
Emergency van emergency phone numbers

2. Medical Assistance and Pharmacies
When to Call SOS Médecins
If your situation isn’t life-threatening but you need urgent medical care outside regular hours, SOS Médecins is a great option. They can send a doctor to your home or direct you to the nearest clinic.
Contact SOS Médecins: +33 (0)1 47 07 77 77
Website: www.sosmedecins.fr

Finding 24/7 Pharmacies
Pharmacies in Paris operate on a rotation system for night and weekend services. The website Pharmacie de Garde helps you locate the nearest open pharmacy.
3. Everyday Assistance Numbers
Public Transport Assistance (RATP): 
For help with metro, bus, or RER issues:
Phone: +33 (0)1 58 78 20 20
Website: www.ratp.fr
Utility Emergencies (Gas, Electricity, Water):
Gas Leaks: GRDF at 0 800 47 33 33 (toll-free)
Power Outages: Enedis at 09 72 67 50 XX (replace XX with your
arrondissement number).
Water Issues: Eau de Paris at +33 (0)1 85 98 78 78.

4. Safety and Support for Expat Families
English-Speaking Helplines
SOS Help: +33 (0)1 46 21 46 46
A confidential, English-speaking helpline for emotional support.
The Paris Expat Network:
A resource for connecting with other expats and finding advice on
everything from childcare to housing.
Women’s Safety and Domestic Violence:
Violence Against Women Helpline: 3919
For advice and support in cases of domestic violence or abuse. Available in
multiple languages.
emergency numbers emergency first aid kit
5. Practical Tips for Staying Prepared
Save Numbers in Advance:
Add these contacts to your phone and share them with your family or roommates.
2. Learn Key French Phrases:
While many operators speak English, it’s helpful to know phrases like “J’ai besoin d’aide” (I need help) or “Il y a une urgence” (There is an emergency).
3. Emergency Kit:
Keep a small kit at home with bandages, a flashlight, a power bank, and a list of emergency numbers.
4. Get to Know Your Neighborhood:
Locate your nearest pharmacy, hospital, and police station shortly after moving in.
Conclusion
Having a reliable list of emergency and assistance contacts can transform a stressful situation into something manageable. Tom’s story is just one example of how preparedness can make a huge difference in a foreign country. Whether it’s a medical issue, a lost item, or simply needing help with public transport, Paris has a robust support system in place for residents and visitors alike. Save these numbers, familiarize yourself with the resources, and you’ll feel much more at ease navigating daily life in your new home. As Tom says, “Knowing who to call gave me peace of mind. Now, I feel much more
confident living in Paris.”