The following numbers are for public emergency services. You cannot expect English-speaking dispatchers. To take thorough precautions, you should learn to say your address in Russian, and learn or note near your phone a few key words/phrases: pozhar – fire; avaria – accident; sereznaya travma – serious injuries; smertel’naya opasnost’ – danger of death; utechka gaza – gas leak; srochno – urgent.
In a genuine emergency and if your Russian isn’t up to scratch, consider contacting your emplyer or a Russian speaking friend who will be able to communicate with the emergency services on your behalf.
The police department has a locator system to trace landline phone numbers, but the fire department does not. Expect response times no faster than 30 minutes; with up to 90 minutes typical depending on traffic, time of day, and circumstances.
- Fire Dept 01
- Police 02 (including traffic accidents)
- Ambulance 03
- Gas Poison Control 04
In a serious medical emergency, a private ambulance is your best bet (see Ambulance).
