Emergency Services in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a welcoming and generally very safe city, but even in the most relaxed places, unexpected situations can happen. Knowing how emergency services work can make a big difference if you ever need help. Consider this your calm, clear survival manual — hopefully never needed, but good to have in your back pocket.

The most important number: 112

In the Netherlands, 112 is the single emergency number for:

• Police

• Ambulance

• Fire brigade

Call 112 immediately in situations involving danger to life, serious injury, fire, violence, or accidents. The operator will ask what is happening and your location, then connect the appropriate service. English is widely spoken, so do not hesitate to call if Dutch is not your language.

When it’s urgent, but not life-threatening

For non-emergency police matters — such as theft without immediate danger, lost property, or disturbances — you can call 0900-8844. This keeps emergency lines free for real emergencies and still gets you proper assistance.

Police in Amsterdam

Amsterdam police officers are highly visible, especially in busy areas like the city centre, train stations, and tourist hotspots. They are approachable and used to helping visitors with both safety issues and practical questions. If something feels wrong, trust that instinct and ask for help.

Ambulance and medical emergencies

If someone is seriously injured, unconscious, or experiencing severe medical symptoms, call 112 immediately. Ambulance services in Amsterdam are fast, professional, and well-equipped.
For less urgent medical issues, pharmacies (“apotheek”) and GP services can often help. Many hotels can also assist you in contacting medical care.

Fire brigade and rescue services

The fire brigade responds not only to fires, but also to accidents, people trapped in lifts, and dangerous situations involving buildings or water. In a city full of canals, these services are well-trained for complex rescues.

Practical tips for tourists

• Save 112 in your phone before you need it.

• Know your location: street name, nearby landmark, or canal — it helps responders act faster.

• Follow instructions from emergency operators calmly; they are trained to guide you step by step.

• In public places, staff members are often trained to assist until emergency services arrive.

Amsterdam runs on bicycles, trams, water, and people from all over the world — a wonderfully complex system. Emergency services are the quiet backbone that keeps it all running safely. Hopefully, your visit will only involve museums, cafés, and canal views, but if things take an unexpected turn, help is never far away.