If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’re in for an amazing experience with delicious food, friendly locals, and beautiful sights. Italy is considered one of the safest European countries for travelers. You’ll often find the local people helpful and welcoming, particularly in tourist hotspots like Rome, Venice, and Florence. However, emergencies can happen anywhere, even in the most peaceful cities or countryside towns. Knowing exactly what to do and who to call can make a huge difference, whether it’s a health issue, lost documents, a fire, or something more serious like a natural disaster. For those who want to be extra prepared for their travels, check out our curated safety and travel essentials in the Italy On Foot store, perfect for peace of mind before and during your Italian adventure.
The Key Emergency Numbers Every Traveller Needs to Know
If You Remember Just One, Make it 112
Italy uses 112 as its single emergency number. This is the European emergency number, similar to 911 in the United States. It connects you with police, ambulance, fire service, and coast guard wherever you call from. You don’t need to worry about which specific service you need; just call 112 if in doubt, and trained operators will route your call.
Other Important Numbers to Know
While 112 is your go-to, Italy still maintains specialised numbers you may see posted around cities, hotels, or transit stations. Here’s a quick look at the most useful emergency contacts, so you’re never caught off guard:
| Service | Number | What It’s For |
|---|---|---|
| Single emergency (NUE 112) | 112 | All emergencies: police, ambulance, fire, coast guard |
| State Police (Polizia di Stato) | 113 | Theft, accidents, personal safety |
| Fire brigade (Vigili del Fuoco) | 115 | Fires, building collapse, weather rescue |
| Medical emergency / ambulance | 118 | Serious health emergencies, accidents, mountain/cave rescue |
| Carabinieri (Military police) | 112 | Now part of single 112 emergency system |
| Guardia di Finanza (financial police) | 117 | Fraud, tourist scams, counterfeit goods |
| Forest rangers / wildfires | 1515 | Environmental emergencies, forest fires |
| Road & traffic info (CCISS) | 1518 | Real-time road and traffic conditions |
| ACI roadside assistance | 803 116 | Breakdown, towing, motorways assistance |
| Coast Guard / sea rescue | 1530 | Rescue at sea, missing people in the water (guardiacostiera.gov.it) |
| Child emergency helpline | 114 | Dangers to children (online or in person) |
| Violence & stalking helpline | 1522 | Violence/stalking against women (multilanguage) |
Travel Tip: Download the “112 Where Are U” App
Before your trip to Italy, it’s a good idea to download the official “112 Where Are U” app. This free app uses your smartphone’s GPS to quickly and accurately pinpoint your location when you call 112, which can speed up help in case you’re lost, disoriented, or in a place where regional dialects could make conversation tricky. The app is easy to use and recommended by authorities, but you must still be ready to make a spoken call if your phone battery dies or the app glitches.
Making Emergency Calls: Language Support and What to Say
In major tourist areas, Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, Naples, emergency call centers (called PSAPs) have multilingual operators or can quickly connect with a live interpreter. While you shouldn’t expect everyone to speak perfect English in smaller towns, the call handlers are used to tourists and will do their best to help you.
- If possible, start with “I am a tourist. I speak English.”
- State what happened: “I need help. There is an emergency.”
- Give your exact location: street address, landmark, hotel name, or Google Maps coordinates.
Here are quick Italian phrases for emergencies:
- Aiuto! (Help!)
- C’è un’emergenza. (There’s an emergency.)
- Sto male. (I am sick/unwell.)
- Serve un’ambulanza. (I need an ambulance.)
- Incendio! (Fire!)
What to Do in a Medical Emergency
Whether you’re dealing with sudden illness, a car accident, a hiking injury, or something more serious, Italy’s emergency healthcare system is well-organized and efficient. For life-threatening situations, severe chest pain, signs of stroke, trouble breathing, major trauma, heavy bleeding, unconsciousness, call 112 or 118 immediately. If you’re able, head straight to the nearest hospital’s “Pronto Soccorso” (emergency room). Italian law is clear: nobody in a real emergency is turned away, even if you’re not an Italian citizen or don’t have your passport on you.
How Hospital Emergencies Work
In Italian emergency rooms, patients are seen according to the seriousness of their condition, not who arrived first. This is managed through a color code system: red (critical), yellow (serious), green (less urgent), and white (minor). If your issue is not life-threatening, expect a wait, especially during busy hours or flu season. If it’s urgent but not dire, and you don’t want to wait, consider private clinics or doctors; many hotels will help arrange this for you, though be aware that fees can be significant without insurance. Pharmacies (look for a bright green cross) are everywhere and can offer advice or direct you to the right resources, especially outside normal office hours.
Dealing with Lost or Stolen Passport or Wallet
Losing your passport or wallet can feel major, especially while abroad. If this happens, stay calm and make a police report as soon as possible, which you’ll need for embassy help. Visit the nearest police station (“Questura” or “Stazione dei Carabinieri”). Keep photocopies or digital scans of your documents in a separate safe place, like your hotel room or your email, to make replacement smoother. Your embassy or consulate can issue a temporary travel document to get you home or continue your journey.
How Italy Handles Natural Disasters
Italy’s beautiful landscape sometimes comes at a price. The country has a well-organized Civil Protection system (“Protezione Civile”) that responds to earthquakes, wildfires, floods, volcanic events, and other major emergencies. This system quickly alerts and assists locals and tourists if major events happen.
Earthquakes
Some regions, especially central Italy, experience earthquakes. In hotels and public buildings, you’ll often see evacuation maps posted in rooms or hallways. If you feel strong shaking, the key advice is simple: drop to the ground, protect your head, and move away from windows or items that could fall. If outside, move to an open area away from buildings or trees. After the shaking stops, follow local officials’ instructions and don’t return to damaged structures until cleared.
Floods
Flooding can occasionally affect cities like Venice or villages along rivers. Civil Protection recommends moving to higher floors, avoiding underground garages or basements, and never trying to walk or drive through moving water. Always follow warnings on local news or from authorities, and if needed, call the Civil Protection information line for non-immediate emergencies. For urgent rescue, still use 112.
Wildfires and Sea Emergencies
During summer, wildfires can impact rural and forest areas. If you spot a fire, call 1515, and move away from the direction of smoke or flames. On the coast, the Coast Guard is reachable at 1530 or through their official website for non-urgent help, like missing swimmers or stranded boats.
Other Emergencies and Helpful Numbers
While crime rates in Italy are low, petty theft (like pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas) can happen. For emergencies involving theft, assault, or if you just feel unsafe, you can call either 112 or 113. If you are in danger or witness a crime, always call for help, don’t try to intervene yourself.
If you are driving and your car breaks down, call 803 116 (ACI), which can arrange tow trucks or roadside repairs. For traffic jams or up-to-date road conditions, dial 1518 for real-time information.
- For reporting tourist scams or fraud, the Guardia di Finanza is at 117.
- Child abuse or risk to minors is handled by 114, and the women’s helpline for issues like violence or stalking is 1522, with support in multiple languages.
What To Do Before and During Your Trip, Quick Checklist
Before You Go to Italy
- Save key emergency contacts in your phone (especially 112).
- Download the official “112 Where Are U” app for your smartphone.
- Keep digital and paper copies of your passport and travel insurance.
- Check your embassy’s location and contact info in Italy.
- Read up on your destination, each region has its own specific risks, such as flooding or earthquakes.
While in Italy
- Pay attention to local signs and hotel info about emergency exits or evacuation plans.
- Listen for civil protection announcements in public spaces or on local news.
- Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel staff or locals for advice if you feel unsure about any situation, they are often the best resource for on-the-ground help.
- Always keep a basic phrase card and address of your accommodation on you, especially if you’re traveling with kids or elderly relatives.
FAQs About Emergencies in Italy
Will I get help immediately if something serious happens?
Yes, serious emergencies are treated as a top priority. The 112 line quickly connects you to the right service and triages urgency. Multilingual support is available in all major cities and tourist regions.
What if I don’t speak Italian?
Emergency call handlers are used to foreign visitors. Just state your need for English straight away, “I am a tourist. I speak English.” Keep calm, and use simple words.
Is it true that some hospitals might not treat you if you don’t have documents?
No. In genuine emergencies, Italian ERs will treat anyone, regardless of your citizenship or paperwork.
What if I’m in the countryside or mountains?
112 and 118 cover all of Italy. Specialized rescue teams are trained for mountains, caves, and remote areas.
For more tips, travel safety gear, and guides, don’t forget to visit the Italy On Foot store, we keep globetrotters safe and informed!
Italy is a wonderful, welcoming country that makes safety a high priority for all visitors. Knowing the right numbers, being prepared with key apps and documents, and staying aware of your surroundings is the best way to keep your trip stress-free. For any emergency, just remember, 112 is the universal number. Follow local advice, take sensible precautions, and enjoy exploring Italy’s cities, countryside, and coastline with peace of mind.
If you plan ahead and know what to do, you’re already set for a safer, more relaxed Italian holiday.