If you need emergency services, including the Police (An Garda Síochana or ‘the Gardai’), Fire Brigade, or Ambulance call 112 or 999.
When to call
Call 112 or 999 in genuine emergencies – when someone’s life, health, property, or the environment is in danger. Don’t expect someone else to call – do it yourself. Make sure that your kids know how to call the emergency number, and what to say when they get through.
On the call
You’ll be asked which emergency service you need – the Gardaí, the ambulance or the fire brigade. If you’re not sure, the operator will ask you about the situation and direct your call based on your answer.
You will need to give an address. There’s a good chance you will be calling from home, so have a few things prepared. Your Eircode is a good start – it will help the National Emergencies Operations Centre find you. Write down a few easy-to-follow directions to your house and leave it by the phone.
What if it’s not an emergency?
If you need to report a crime, which is not an emergency, contact your local Garda station. For more information, visit the emergency services’ website.

Helplines
It’s good to know that there are people we can turn to when we’re facing difficult times. If you need to speak to someone about your challenges, don’t hesitate. The Samaritan’s are available 24/7 on freephone: 116 123 and Childline on freephone: 1800 66 66 66. You can also consult the Health Service Executive’s directory for other services offering the support of trained advisors.