This guide provides all the emergency numbers you need to call if you require help in Switzerland. You can also check the nearest emergency stations using an interactive map.
Anyone can find themselves in an unexpected or emergency situation. The key is to stay calm and know the right number to call to contact the appropriate emergency service. Read this guide from internet-offer to learn how to act in these situations and get the complete list of emergency phone numbers in Switzerland.
Before continuing, remember that Swiss emergency numbers are free and accessible even without a Swiss mobile subscription. However, having a working SIM card with good coverage allows you to contact friends and family if needed.
If you don't have one yet, we recommend activating at least an affordable prepaid SIM.
All Emergency Numbers in Switzerland
In Switzerland, as in the rest of Europe, the main emergency number to remember is 112. Dialing 112 connects you to the nearest emergency control center, which will forward your request to the appropriate department.
The 112 emergency number is free and can be dialed from any SIM (Swiss or foreign), even if you have no phone credit or weak mobile coverage.
Below is a summary table with the main emergency numbers in Switzerland:
Emergency Service | Number |
Police | 117 |
Fire Department | 118 |
Crisis Hotline (Paid service CHF 0.20-0.70) | 143 |
Ambulance | 144 |
Poison Control Center | 145 |
SBB Railway Police | 0800 117 117 |
Pro Juventute Helpline (for children & teenagers) | 147 |
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (Consular Services) | 0800 247 365 |
Where Are the 112 Control Centers Located?
With the interactive map below, you can select your municipality and see which control center will handle your emergency call. Click on “More Information” to see the address and other details for each center.
Source: This map was created by the Swiss Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM). You can find the original dataset and its usage terms on the official opendata.swiss website.
What Are the Warning Signals in Switzerland?
The Swiss government uses acoustic signals (sirens) to alert the population in case of an imminent threat. These sirens can indicate: a general warning or a dam failure risk.
If you hear a siren, immediately check the free Alertswiss mobile app. It will inform you about the type of danger detected (chemical hazard, terrorist threat, etc.).
Every year, on the first Wednesday of February, all sirens are tested. Do not panic on this day!
What Should I Do If I Witness an Accident?
Stay calm and assess the situation.
Do not put yourself in danger.
Call 112 immediately to alert emergency services.
Clearly describe the situation so responders can act quickly and effectively.
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Find more useful information in our articles on telecommunications and living in Switzerland.