Emergency numbers and services you should know

In case of an emergency in Switzerland, knowing who to call can make a real difference. Here are the main emergency numbers to keep in mind, whether you’re in Geneva or elsewhere in the country. These services are generally reachable 24/7 and can respond in English, French, German, or Italian, depending on your location.

Key emergency numbers in Switzerland

These are the most important numbers to remember. You can call them from any phone, free of charge:

• 117 – Police
• 118 – Fire department
• 144 – Ambulance (medical emergencies)
• 112 – European emergency number (works across the EU and in Switzerland)
• 1414 – Swiss Air Rescue (Rega) for mountain or remote emergencies
• 145 – Poison control (Tox Info Suisse)
• 143 – Mental health support (La Main Tendue, confidential and available 24/7)
• 147 – Child and youth support line

Calling 112 will connect you to a general operator who can redirect you to the appropriate service. It’s a good option if you’re unsure which number to dial.

Emergency services and hospitals in Geneva

If you’re based in Geneva, here are key locations you should know:

Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG)
Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva
Emergency entrance: Access via Rue Alcide-Jentzer
+41 22 372 33 11
Open 24/7

Pharmacies de garde (on-duty pharmacies)
You can find the nearest on-duty pharmacy at hug.ch/pharmacie/service-garde

Tips to stay prepared

• Save key emergency numbers in your phone under clear labels like “Emergency – Ambulance” or “Emergency – Police”
• If you’re going hiking or skiing, consider installing the Rega app. It allows you to trigger an emergency call with location sharing
• Carry your Swiss health insurance card or a copy of your European Health Insurance Card with you
• Learn basic French phrases for emergencies if you don’t speak the language

Switzerland’s emergency response services are efficient and well-organized, but being informed in advance will help you act quickly and confidently if the need arises.