Hello and welcome to Poland! 😊
If you have just arrived, everything might seem new and confusing. One of the most important things you should know is how to call for help in an emergency. 🚨
This simple guide explains step by step what to do if something happens — so you can stay safe and calm.
👉 Step 1: Know the Emergency Numbers
Poland has several numbers for different emergency services.
Write them down or save them in your phone right away:
📞 112 – General emergency number (works everywhere in Poland + all of the EU 🌍)
👮 997 – Police (for theft, crime, dangerous situations)
🔥 998 – Fire Brigade (for fire, smoke, or gas leaks)
🚑 999 – Ambulance (for medical emergencies)
💡 Tip: If you’re unsure which number to call — just dial 112. The operator will connect you to the right service.
👉 Step 2: When Should You Call?
Call only if it’s really urgent. For example:
✔️ A car accident 🚗
✔️ Someone is injured or unconscious 😮
✔️ A fire or explosion 🔥💥
✔️ Theft, robbery, or someone in danger 👮
❌ Don’t call if it’s a small issue (like asking for directions or non-urgent problems). Emergency lines must stay open for real emergencies.
👉 Step 3: Useful Polish Words & Phrases
If you don’t speak Polish yet, here are a few words that can help:
“Pomocy!” = Help! 🙏
“Potrzebuję lekarza” = I need a doctor 🏥
“Wypadek” = Accident 🚗
“Ktoś jest nieprzytomny” = Someone is unconscious 😮
“Pali się!” = Fire! 🔥
💡 Don’t worry — in most bigger cities, many operators speak English.
👉 Step 4: What Happens When You Call?
When you call, the operator will ask:
What happened? (accident, fire, theft, etc.)
Where are you? (give the address or a nearby landmark)
How many people need help?
Depending on the case:
🚑 Ambulance, 🔥 Firefighters, or 👮 Police will be sent to the location.
👉 Step 5: Medical Emergencies in Poland
✅ Emergency help is free of charge — even if you are a foreigner without health insurance.
✅ Hospitals must treat you in life-threatening situations.
💡 For regular visits, you might need insurance, but emergencies are always covered.
✨ Quick Summary for Newcomers
✔ Save these numbers: 112 / 997 / 998 / 999
✔ Call only for urgent emergencies
✔ Learn 2–3 key Polish words (like Pomocy!)
✔ Help is free in emergencies — don’t hesitate to call
✔ Share this post — it might save someone’s life 🙌
