Emergency Contact Information in China

When traveling in China, it is crucial to be familiar with the following emergency phone numbers and contact information so that you can quickly respond to unexpected situations:

1. General Emergency Numbers

• Police: 110
• Used for criminal cases, public security incidents, personal safety threats, etc.

• Tip: Even if there is a language barrier, the operator will try to assist. It is recommended to prepare key information in Chinese beforehand (such as address, type of incident).

• Medical Emergency: 120

• Call in case of sudden illness or serious injury requiring urgent medical assistance.

• Tip: Specify the patient’s symptoms and location. If English service is needed, translation assistance can be requested (available in some large city hospitals).

• Fire and Fire Rescue: 119

• Use in case of fire, explosion, gas leakage, or demolition rescue.

• Tip: Evacuate the dangerous area first, then call and clearly state the location and severity of the fire.

• Traffic Accident Reporting: 122

• For vehicle collisions, road rescues, or when police intervention is required.

2. Other Important Service Numbers

• Global Consular Protection and Service Emergency Hotline (24 hours): +86-10-12308

• For overseas Chinese citizens or foreign tourists needing consular assistance (such as lost passport, legal disputes).

• Consumer Complaints: 12315

• Use in case of consumer fraud, price disputes, or product quality issues.

• Tourism Service Complaints: 12301

• For complaints regarding travel agencies, tour guide services, scenic area management, etc.

3. Special Tips for International Travelers

• Language Support:
• When calling 110/120/119, try saying “Hello, I need help” or “English service.” Some cities offer multi-language support.

• It is suggested to save the following Chinese phrases on your phone:

  • “Please help me!” (Qǐng bāng bāng wǒ! / Help me!)
  • “I need a translator.” (Wǒ xūyào fānyì. / I need a translator.)

• Address Information Preparation:

• The typical address format in China is: Province + City + District/County + Street + Door Number (e.g., No. 88 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing).

• Save the Chinese version of your hotel address in advance or use a map app for real-time location.

• Non-Emergency Assistance:

• Contact the hotel front desk, scenic area service center, or local police station (non-emergency matters can be handled at a police precinct).

4. Guidelines for Special Situations

• No Cell Signal/SIM Card Malfunction:

• All phones in mainland China (including those without SIM cards) can freely dial 110/119/120/122.

• Remote Areas (such as mountains, highlands):

• Contact the scenic area management office or accommodation staff, who are familiar with local emergency resources.

• Public Transportation Assistance:

• Subway/Train Station: Look for uniformed staff or use emergency call devices within the station.
• On a plane: Directly contact the flight crew.

5. Recommended Practical Tools

• Save Emergency Contacts:

• Store the following information on your phone:

  • Contact details of your country’s embassy/consulate in China (e.g., U.S. Embassy in China: +86-10-8531-3000).
  • Hotel address and phone number (in both Chinese and English).

• Maps and Translation Apps:

• Recommend installing Baidu Maps/AutoNavi Maps (real-time navigation), Google Translate/Tencent Translation (voice translation).