Health & Emergency

In case of an emergency those dialling from a land line or public payphone should use the following numbers: 999 for an ambulance, 998 for the fire brigade and 997 for the police. Mobile phone users should call 112 to be forwarded to the relevant department. English speaking assistance is not necessarily guaranteed, and rests on the linguistic capabilities of the call operator.

Between June 1st and September 30th however, English, German and Russian speakers have the option of using a separate line specifically designed for foreigners in distress: dial 800 200 300 from a land-line or 608 599 999 from a mobile phone for troubles during high-tourist season.

Further help can be provided by embassies and consulates, of which a comprehensive list can be found in the directory section. If you’ve run out of money, however, then silly you. No embassy will bail you out, and and your hopes will rest on a Western Union money transfer. Most banks and many exchange bureaus (kantors) can now carry out such transactions, just keep an eye out for anywhere displaying the Western Union logo.

For a list of clinics and hospitals check the directory section at the back of this guide.