Daily English Day 30: Emergency Numbers and Key Phrases

Emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere. When you are traveling, studying, or living abroad, knowing how to communicate in English during an emergency can make a big difference. Whether you need to call an ambulance, report a fire, or ask for police assistance, learning the right words and phrases helps you stay calm and get help quickly.

This lesson focuses on emergency numbers and key survival phrases in English. By the end, you will feel more confident handling urgent situations.

1. Common Emergency Numbers Around the World

Different countries have different emergency numbers. It is important to check the local number when you arrive in a new place. However, some numbers are widely recognized.

• 911 – United States, Canada, Philippines, and some other countries

• 112 – European Union and many countries worldwide

• 999 – United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, UAE

• 000 – Australia

• 111 – New Zealand, Japan (for certain services), some Asian countries

Tip: When in doubt, try 112. Many countries recognize it as a universal emergency number.

2. Key English Words for Emergencies

Here are some useful vocabulary words:

• Ambulance – a vehicle that takes sick or injured people to the hospital

• Police – law enforcement officers who help in crimes or accidents

• Fire Department / Firefighters – the team that stops fires and rescues people

• Emergency Room (ER) – hospital department for urgent medical care

• Accident – an unexpected event that causes harm or damage

• Injury – physical harm to someone’s body

• Unconscious – not awake, not responding

• Danger – a situation that can cause harm

• Evacuate – leave a place quickly for safety

3. Essential Phrases to Use in Emergencies

When calling emergency services or asking for help, use clear and simple English.

a. Calling for Help by Phone

• “I need an ambulance.”

• “There is a fire at [address].”

• “Please send the police.”

• “I need help, someone is hurt.”

• “There has been an accident.”

b. Giving Your Location

• “I am at [address/landmark/street name].”

• “We are near [shopping mall, hotel, bus station, etc.].”

• “I don’t know the address, but I see [landmark].”

c. Explaining the Emergency

• “Someone is unconscious.”

• “There is heavy bleeding.”

• “I see smoke and fire.”

• “There was a car crash.”

• “I think someone is having a heart attack.”

Speak slowly and repeat if the operator doesn’t understand.

4. Emergency Phrases with Locals

If you are outside and need help from strangers:

• “Please help me, it’s an emergency.”

• “Call the police, please.”

• “Does anyone know first aid?”

• “Where is the nearest hospital?”

• “Can you call an ambulance?”

Even if your grammar is not perfect, people will understand that you need urgent help.

5. Example Dialogue: Calling an Ambulance

Operator: Emergency hotline, what’s your emergency?
You: Hello, I need an ambulance.
Operator: What happened?
You: My friend collapsed and is unconscious.
Operator: Where are you?
You: We are at Ayala Center Cebu, near the main entrance.
Operator: Stay on the line, help is on the way.

This simple pattern—state the problem, describe the situation, give your location—is the most effective way to get help quickly.

6. Medical Emergencies

In case of medical problems, here are some phrases:

• “I cannot breathe.”

• “I feel dizzy.”

• “He/She is bleeding.”

• “I think I broke my arm.”

• “He/She has chest pain.”

• “I am allergic to [peanuts/medicine].”

Knowing how to explain symptoms in English can save time at the hospital.

7. Fire Emergencies

If you see a fire:

• “Fire! Fire!”

• “There is smoke.”

• “Please evacuate the building.”

• “The fire is spreading.”

In crowded places, shouting “Fire!” is often enough to alert others.

8. Crime and Safety Emergencies

If you are in danger or witness a crime:

• “Help! Call the police!”

• “Someone stole my bag.”

• “I was attacked.”

• “There was a robbery.”

• “My passport is missing.”

Always go to the nearest police station if possible.

9. Emergency Numbers in the Philippines (Cebu Example)

Since many learners may visit or live in Cebu, Philippines, here are some important numbers:

• 911 – National Emergency Hotline

• (032) 166 – Cebu City Police Hotline

• (032) 160 – Fire Department

• (032) 161 – Ambulance / Medical Emergency

Save these numbers in your phone before you need them.

10. Useful Survival Sentences

Here are short, powerful phrases you can memorize:

• “I need help.”

• “It’s an emergency.”

• “Please hurry.”

• “Call an ambulance.”

• “Call the police.”

• “There is a fire.”

• “We need to leave.”

• “I don’t feel well.”

• “I lost my passport.”

Simple English is best in stressful situations.

11. Cultural Tips

• Stay calm: Speak slowly so emergency operators understand you.

• Repeat important details: Your location and the type of emergency are most important.

• Use landmarks: If you don’t know the street address, mention nearby hotels, malls, or well-known buildings.

• Carry a card: Write down emergency phrases and numbers in English and the local language.

12. Practice Exercise

Try practicing these calls with a friend:

1. Pretend you see a car accident. Practice calling emergency services and explaining:

   • What happened

   • How many people are hurt

   • Where you are

2. Practice shouting short emergency phrases in public:

   • “Help!”

   • “Fire!”

   • “Call the police!”

Role-play helps you stay confident if a real emergency happens.

13. Summary

Emergencies are stressful, but knowing the right English words and phrases can help you act quickly and get assistance. Remember these steps:

1. Call the right number (911, 112, or local emergency hotline).

2. Say what happened clearly and simply.

3. Give your location with as much detail as possible.

4. Ask for the right help (ambulance, police, fire).

With practice, you will feel more prepared and safe while traveling or living abroad.

FAQ:Emergency Numbers and Key Phrases

What are the most common emergency numbers I should know when traveling?

The most widely used emergency numbers are 112, 911, 999, 000, and 111. Many countries in Europe and elsewhere accept 112, North America often uses 911, the UK and several Asian regions use 999, Australia uses 000, and New Zealand uses 111. Because numbering varies by country, always check local advice when you arrive. If you’re unsure, try 112; in many places it connects to emergency services or forwards to the correct local number.

What should I say first when I call an emergency number?

Start with three essentials: the emergency type (police, fire, or medical), your exact location, and what happened. A simple template is: “I need an ambulance. We are at [address/landmark]. My friend collapsed and is not responding.” Pause and follow the operator’s questions. Speak slowly, stay calm, and avoid long explanations until they ask for details.

How do I describe my location if I don’t know the address?

Use clear reference points. Mention nearby landmarks (a mall, hotel, station), street names and intersections, building names, floor numbers, or visible signs. If you are outdoors, describe recognizable features such as a bridge, park gate, or traffic light. You can say, “I’m across from [store], near the south entrance, next to the taxi stand.” If possible, enable location sharing on your phone and tell the operator the coordinates shown in your map app.

What key English phrases should I memorize for emergencies?

Short, direct phrases work best: “I need help.” “It’s an emergency.” “Please send an ambulance.” “Call the police.” “There’s a fire.” “Someone is unconscious.” “I’m at [landmark].” “Please hurry.” These are easy to remember and immediately tell the operator what you need. Practice saying them slowly and clearly.

How can I explain medical symptoms in simple English?

Use short, specific phrases: “Heavy bleeding,” “Chest pain,” “Cannot breathe,” “Dizzy,” “Severe headache,” “Broken arm,” “Allergic reaction.” If you know the cause, add it: “Bee sting, trouble breathing,” “Car crash, head injury.” If the person has conditions or medicines, say, “He is diabetic,” or “She takes [medicine].” Keep it factual and brief.

What if my English is limited or I feel too stressed to speak clearly?

Use the simplest words you can and repeat key information. You might say, “Ambulance. Address: [address]. Man unconscious.” If you prepared a card with phrases in English, read from it. Many operators are trained to ask yes/no questions and to guide you step by step. If there is a bilingual bystander, politely ask, “Can you help me explain?” Avoid apologizing or long stories—focus on the essential facts.

How can I stay calm during the call?

Take one breath before you speak. Anchor to a structure: who, where, what. Stand still in a safe spot so you don’t lose signal or miss questions. If you panic, say, “Sorry, I’m nervous. Please ask me one question at a time.” Remember that the operator’s tone may be firm; this helps them get information quickly. Keep them on the line until they say you can hang up.

What should I do while waiting for help to arrive?

Follow any instructions given by the operator. If it is safe, make the area visible: turn on lights, wave to responders from a door or sidewalk, or send someone to the entrance. If you are outdoors at night, use your phone’s flashlight. Keep your line open in case the dispatcher calls back. Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic). If trained, begin first aid as directed by the operator.

Can I text or use messaging apps for emergencies?

Emergency systems differ by country. In some places, text-to-911/112 exists but coverage may be limited. If calling is not possible (hearing/speech impairment, unsafe to speak), try texting the official emergency number if your region supports it. Messaging apps usually do not connect to emergency services. When in doubt, call. If you must text, include your location and emergency type in the first message: “Need ambulance at [address]. Person not breathing.”

Do emergency calls work without a local SIM or phone credit?

In many regions, emergency calls to numbers like 112 or 911 can be placed without active service or remaining balance, as long as a network signal is available. However, this is not guaranteed everywhere. If you are traveling, obtain a local SIM or eSIM and store key numbers. Keep your phone charged, carry a power bank, and learn how to make calls from your device’s lock screen.

How do I give directions if I’m inside a large building or mall?

Provide the building name, the specific entrance or wing, and your level and unit (for example, “Level 3, Food Court, near Store 218”). Look for wayfinding signs, store numbers, or emergency maps. Tell the operator the nearest escalator or elevator and the color or letter zones often used in parking structures. If security staff are present, ask them to guide responders to your exact spot.

What should I do if I witness a fire?

Raise the alarm loudly—shout “Fire!” and activate a fire alarm pull station if available. Call the emergency number and say, “There is a fire at [exact location]. I see smoke/flames.” Evacuate using stairs, not elevators. Close (don’t lock) doors behind you to slow smoke. If safe, meet responders outside to point out the source. Do not re-enter the building until authorities say it is safe.

How do I report theft or an assault in clear English?

State the type of incident, time, and description. For example: “My bag was stolen 10 minutes ago at [place]. The thief wore a black jacket and ran toward [direction].” If you are in danger, say so immediately: “I am in danger now.” If the suspect is still nearby, avoid confrontation; focus on getting to a safe place and providing details to the police.

What phrases help when someone is unconscious?

Say, “Person unconscious. Breathing/not breathing. No response to voice.” If you know their age and sex, add that: “Male, about 40, not responding.” Follow dispatcher instructions for checking airway and breathing. If you are trained, begin CPR when told. Keep the line open and report any change (“He is breathing now,” “She started to move”).

How can I prepare before an emergency happens?

Save local emergency numbers in your phone under simple labels (POLICE, FIRE, AMBULANCE). Create a lock-screen note with your name, emergency contacts, allergies, and key medical info. Learn basic first aid and CPR. Keep a small card in your wallet with emergency phrases in English and the local language. Identify hospitals and police stations near your home, school, or hotel, and practice saying the addresses aloud.

What if I call by mistake?

Do not hang up. Stay on the line and say, “Accidental call. No emergency.” Answer any confirmation questions. If you hang up, they may call back or send responders to verify, which ties up resources. Calling only for true emergencies helps keep lines available for life-threatening situations.

Are there tips for travelers with hearing or speech difficulties?

Research local options for text-to-emergency services, relay services, or TTY. Prepare a note template on your phone that you can show quickly to bystanders or security: “Emergency. Please call [number]. Location: [address].” Carry medical and contact cards, and consider a wearable ID that lists conditions, medications, or allergies. When possible, travel with companions who know your communication preferences.

What should I avoid saying on an emergency call?

Avoid guesses that can mislead responders. If you are uncertain, say “I’m not sure.” Don’t exaggerate or minimize the situation; be precise. Avoid long background stories. Keep the line free of side conversations and follow the dispatcher’s pace. If you need to put the phone down to help, say, “Stay on the line. I’m following your instructions.”

How should I teach kids to use emergency numbers responsibly?

Show them when to call (fire, someone not breathing, an intruder) and what to say: name, address, and the problem. Practice a simple script: “This is [name]. I’m at [address]. My mom is not waking up.” Emphasize that emergency numbers are not for jokes. Place a visible card near the phone with the address and key phrases. Role-play calmly so they build confidence.

What if I need help but it’s not life-threatening?

Many places have non-emergency numbers for police or medical advice lines. If your situation is urgent or unsafe, call the emergency number. If it can wait—like reporting a minor theft after the fact or asking about lost property—search for the local non-emergency contact. When uncertain, call emergency services and let the dispatcher guide you; they may redirect you to the correct resource.

Can I use landmarks and digital tools together for faster help?

Yes. Give the landmark first, then refine with digital precision. For example: “At City Park, north entrance, near the fountain. My map shows coordinates [latitude, longitude].” If your phone supports sharing your live location, ask whether the operator can accept it. Keep describing your surroundings so responders can spot you even if GPS is imprecise.

What are a few last phrases to keep ready in a crisis?

Memorize: “I need an ambulance/police/fire department.” “Address is [address/landmark].” “Person not breathing / heavy bleeding / chest pain.” “Please hurry.” “I will stay on the line.” These short lines help you act quickly and get the right help on the way.

Daily English Guide for Beginners: Speak with Confidence Every Day