If you face an emergency after you move to Madrid, you must know who to call. This guide lists all Spanish emergency numbers and explains how to get help.
The general emergency number: 112
The primary número de emergencias (emergency number) in Spain is 112. You can call this number for any emergency scenario.
This includes fires, crimes, and medical emergencies. Calls to 112 are completely free from any phone.
You do not need a Spanish SIM card to call. You can even call if your phone has no network coverage.
Operators on the 112 line speak Spanish and English. In tourist areas like Madrid, they can also answer in French or German.
The operator will transfer you to the correct department.
Police services in Madrid
Spain has different police forces that handle different situations. You should know which force to call for your problem.
The policía nacional (national police) handle serious crimes like theft and assault. You can reach them by dialing 091.
The policía municipal (municipal police) handle local issues like noise, traffic, and minor disputes. You can reach them by dialing 092.
Both police forces work together during major incidents.
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Medical and fire emergencies
You can call specialized numbers for medical help or fires.
For urgent medical care, dial 061 to reach urgencias médicas (medical emergencies). This connects you directly to the ambulance dispatch team.
For fires or rescue situations, dial 080 to reach the bomberos (fire brigade). This is the municipal fire service for Madrid city.
If you are outside the city limits, dial 085 instead. The provincial fire brigade answers on the 085 line.
Specialized assistance numbers
You can call other numbers for specific non-emergency issues.
For poison emergencies, call the national toxicología (poison control) helpline. Their number is 915 620 420.
This service operates 24 hours a day and offers medical advice. For traffic information or road assistance, dial 060.
This connects you to the national traffic authority.
Filing a police report
You must file a denuncia (police report) if you are a victim of a crime. You can do this at any national police comisaría (police station).
You can also file a report online on the police website. You must visit a police station within 72 hours to sign the report.
You can also report crimes by phone in English. The phone service for foreign tourists is 902 102 112.
Note that 902 numbers charge premium rates for the call.
How to dial Spanish phone numbers
Questions and answers
Can I call 112 from a foreign mobile?
Yes. You can call 112 from any mobile phone connected to a European network.
Do I need money or credit to call 112?
No. Calls to 112 are free from all landlines, mobiles, and public phones.
Can someone help me if I do not speak Spanish?
Yes. Emergency operators in Madrid can speak English.
Is there a police app for emergencies?
Yes. You can download the AlertCops mobile app. It allows you to send your GPS coordinates to the police.
You can also chat with operators in multiple languages.
What is the difference between 112 and 061?
112 is general, while 061 is medical. You can call either number for medical emergencies.
