In emergency situations, having the correct phone numbers at hand can make the difference between receiving quick assistance and worsening a problem. In Spain, there are various phone numbers designated for different types of emergencies, ranging from traffic accidents to medical emergencies or fires. Knowing when and which number to call in each situation can be a key factor. In this blog, we’ll explain the main emergency numbers in Spain and in what situations each should be used.

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General Emergency Number: 112

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112 is the single, free emergency number for the entire European Union. It is the main point of contact for emergencies in Spain and can be used for any type of situation requiring police, fire brigade, or medical services. When you call 112, operators will direct the call to the appropriate service based on the situation.

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When to call 112?

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• Serious medical emergencies: such as fainting, heart attacks, drowning, etc.
• Traffic accidents: to coordinate ambulance, fire, or police intervention.
• Fires: whether in homes or forested areas.
• Domestic violence: if immediate intervention is needed.
• Any dangerous or emergency situation: explosions, gas leaks, etc.

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National Police: 091

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091 is the number for the National Police, available for emergencies related to public safety, such as theft, assaults, or crimes. The National Police are responsible for security in urban areas, crime investigations, and managing foreign documentation.

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When to call 091?

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• Ongoing thefts or assaults.
• Crimes or public safety incidents.
• Suspicious or potentially dangerous situations.
• Assistance with identification documents and immigration matters.

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Civil Guard: 062

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062 is the number for the Civil Guard, which mainly operates in rural areas and on highways. This police force has similar responsibilities to the National Police but acts in rural settings and is responsible for road safety on interurban roads.

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When to call 062?

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• Accidents or incidents on interurban roads.
• Theft in rural areas or homes outside urban areas.
• Illegal activities in rural areas or the countryside.
• Matters related to road safety.

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Local Police: 092

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092 connects you to the Local Police, who are responsible for security and order in municipalities or towns. The Local Police handle traffic, public order, and municipal regulations.

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When to call 092?

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• Traffic and circulation problems.
• Excessive noise disturbances.
• Neighborhood disputes or violations of municipal regulations.

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Fire Services: 080 or 085

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In the event of a fire or a situation requiring fire department intervention, there are two available numbers:

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• 080: for fire services in urban areas.
• 085: for fire services in rural areas.

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When to call 080 or 085?

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• Fires in homes, buildings, or vehicles.
• Rescues of trapped people or animals.
• Accidents involving collapses or risk of collapse.
• Leaks of hazardous substances, such as gas or chemicals.

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Medical Emergencies: 061

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061 is the specific number for medical emergencies in Spain. Although 112 also directs medical calls to 061, you can call this number directly for serious medical emergencies that do not require other security forces' intervention.

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When to call 061?

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• Medical emergencies requiring urgent attention.
• Accidents with injuries.
• Life-threatening situations, such as heart attacks, strokes, or choking.

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Road Emergencies: 011

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011 is the phone number for incidents and emergencies on the road network. This service is managed by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) and allows you to receive information and assistance about road conditions and accident intervention.

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When to call 011?

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• Information about road conditions.
• Reporting accidents or dangerous situations on the road.
• Inquiries about weather conditions and road closures.

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Gender Violence: 016

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016 is a specific number for assisting victims of gender violence. It is free and leaves no trace on the phone bill, although it is recommended to delete it from the call log.

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When to call 016?

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• Information and guidance on resources available for victims of gender violence.
• Immediate assistance in situations of risk or domestic violence.

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Knowing these emergency numbers and when to use them can save lives and reduce response times in critical situations. It’s essential to always keep the general number 112 in mind and be aware of which specific numbers to use depending on the situation. Having this information handy can make a big difference in times of need.

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