What to do and Who to call during an emergency in Slovakia

Emergency in Slovakia right now? Call 112. Slovakia’s integrated emergency number can connect you with police, firefighters, medical and other relevant rescue assistance. Direct numbers are 155 for ambulance, 150 for fire and rescue, and 158 for police. In a mountain emergency, the dedicated Mountain Rescue Service number is 18 300. Give the exact location and danger before anything else. If someone’s life is in danger, call now.

This guide covers Bratislava, Košice, Žilina, Poprad, the High Tatras, Low Tatras, Slovak Paradise and Slovakia’s rural and mountain communities. It places emergency numbers and first-minute actions at the top, then explains the official HZS mountain rescue app, dangerous snow, floods, road collisions, violent threats, child protection, domestic violence and weather warnings. Slovak Government and Mountain Rescue Service information checked 6 November 2026.

Quick answer: Slovakia’s emergency and support numbers

112 — integrated emergency system: urgent medical, fire, police and other emergency coordination, free and available continuously.
155 — ambulance / Emergency Medical Service: unconsciousness, serious breathing difficulty, major injury, possible stroke or heart attack and other life-threatening symptoms.
150 — Fire and Rescue Service: a spreading fire, dangerous smoke, urgent technical rescue or a serious fire hazard.
158 — Police: a violent attack, crime in progress, immediate security threat or another situation requiring prompt police intervention.
18 300 — Horská záchranná služba (HZS): specialist Mountain Rescue Service dispatch in its operating areas. The HZS app may dial 18 300 or 112 depending on location.
18 155 — air-rescue service: published as an additional specialist contact by the Czech Embassy’s 2026 Slovakia emergency directory. In immediate medical danger, 155 or 112 remains the straightforward contact.
0800 212 212 — National Helpline for Women Experiencing Violence: free and continuously available; for an active violent attack use 158 or 112.
116 111 — Child Safety Helpline: free, continuous child and young people’s support, not a replacement for emergency police or ambulance dispatch.
116 000 — Missing Children Hotline: free, continuous help concerning missing children; immediate danger should also be reported via 112 or 158.
0800 800 566 — Nezábudka: mental-health support, distinct from life-threatening medical emergencies.
0800 800 818 — Human Trafficking Victims Hotline: specialist information and protection support, not immediate emergency dispatch.

Slovakia’s Ministry of Defence confirms 112, 150, 155 and 158 at official important numbers. The Ministry of Justice lists current support hotlines at Important Contacts for Victims. The Czech Embassy’s directory was updated on 30 January 2026 and confirms 18 300 for mountain rescue: emergency contacts in Slovakia.

The first minute: seven immediate actions

Get out of immediate danger where safe. Avoid smoke, traffic, violence, unstable slopes, floodwater, avalanche terrain and live electrical cables. Do not create a second casualty.
Call 112 or the relevant direct service. Use 155 for an ambulance, 150 for firefighters or 158 for police. In a mountain rescue area, 18 300 is the specialist HZS line.
State the exact location first. Give the town, district, road, building or apartment, or the mountain trail, nearest hut, signed route or GPS coordinates if verified.
Describe what happened in one sentence. ‘One person is unconscious’, ‘smoke is spreading from the kitchen’, ‘a hiker fell’ or ‘a violent attack is ongoing’.
Identify people affected. Report how many are unconscious, not breathing normally, severely bleeding, injured, missing or trapped.
Follow the operator’s instructions. Answer questions, give appropriate first aid within your training and remain connected as directed.
Help rescuers find the safe approach. If possible, have someone meet crews at the entrance, motorway junction, trailhead, mountain refuge or closest accessible road.

Example: ‘Ambulance, please. One adult is unresponsive at [street address], [town], entrance B, flat 14, third floor. My phone is [number].’ In a mountain setting, ‘A hiker has fallen on [trail], near [hut], with GPS [verified coordinates], two people present, one cannot move.’ Do not invent coordinates or a trail name if they are unknown.

How 112 and the direct lines work

Slovakia’s integrated rescue system connects urgent emergency reports to police, ambulance, fire and other relevant agencies. A 112 call is useful when the caller does not know which service should respond or when a situation involves several agencies. Direct 155, 150 and 158 numbers are also official and may be familiar to residents.

A serious road accident could require ambulance staff, firefighters for trapped occupants and police for the road danger. Explain the full situation rather than asking the operator to dispatch only one specific vehicle. The appropriate dispatcher determines what resources and coordination are needed. If the operator asks several questions, remain available and answer accurately. You do not need to diagnose a medical condition before calling.

If the call drops, retry using a safe available phone and repeat your location and incident. Where mobile coverage is absent on every usable network, an ordinary 112 call cannot create a satellite connection. For mountain trips, plan additional communication and navigation methods rather than assume network availability everywhere.

155 Emergency Medical Service: what needs immediate care?

Unconsciousness, severe bleeding or trouble breathing

Call 155 or 112 for someone who is unresponsive, not breathing normally, experiencing severe chest pain, major injury, signs of stroke, a severe allergic reaction, seizures or another immediately life-threatening event. The medical operator may ask whether the person is conscious, breathing, the approximate age, when symptoms began and what danger surrounds them. Describe actual symptoms rather than an uncertain diagnosis.

If someone is not breathing normally, a dispatcher may guide CPR or the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) where available. Follow appropriate first-aid training and the instructions given. A helper can locate an AED or direct rescuers to the patient. Do not give food, water or tablets to a person who is unconscious or unable to swallow.

For a person with a possible spinal or major limb injury after a crash or mountain fall, do not move them unnecessarily unless their current location is dangerous. Keep the route open for paramedics and report changes in condition. Do not delay the emergency request while searching for insurance, a hospital address or a clinical explanation of the problem.

A medical concern that is not immediately life-threatening

For stable illness, medication questions or a minor injury, seek an appropriate local healthcare service, general practitioner or urgent-care provider. Emergency medical dispatch is for conditions that may require immediate intervention. If the person’s symptoms worsen suddenly, breathing becomes seriously impaired or consciousness is lost, call 155 or 112 promptly.

Fires, smoke and rescue: 150 or 112

Call 150 or 112 if a building, workplace, hotel, vehicle or other site is on fire or thick smoke threatens people. Raise the alarm when safe, evacuate by the suitable exit, avoid ordinary lifts during an active fire and close doors behind you where possible. Do not return inside for passports, laptops, documents or valuables.

If smoke blocks a safe route, do not rush blindly through a smoke-filled stairwell. Tell the operator the building, floor, room or staircase and where responders could access you. A multi-storey Bratislava apartment and a remote mountain chalet have different hazards, so follow the actual firefighters’ instructions over generic advice.

For suspected gas leaks, move away from the danger and avoid flames, electrical switches or sparks near the suspected source. An unknown chemical cloud may require sheltering indoors or evacuation depending on what officials say. Do not enter hazardous fumes to determine the product involved.

Police emergencies: 158 and 112

If an assault, violent threat, robbery in progress or another serious police emergency occurs, move to safety when possible and call 158 or 112. Give the location, what is happening, injuries and observed weapons where relevant. Do not follow a dangerous suspect to take photographs or video.

Slovakia’s Ministry of Justice says immediate domestic-violence danger can also be reported through the police on 158 or integrated emergency line 112. Routine reporting after the threat has ended may use the appropriate local police service, but someone currently facing physical harm needs emergency protection first. Official safety information: Slovakia domestic-violence help and urgent police response.

Mountain rescue 18 300: what to say

18 300 is the specialist emergency contact for Slovakia’s Mountain Rescue Service, Horská záchranná služba (HZS). It is important in the High Tatras, Low Tatras and other HZS mountain areas when someone has fallen, become lost, is trapped, injured or endangered by snow, ice or difficult terrain. State the mountain group, nearest trail or hut, weather, injuries, number of people and exact or reliable last known position.

The Czech Republic’s embassy in Bratislava lists both 18 300 for HZS and 18 155 for air rescue in its January 2026 updated contacts. Do not delay reporting immediate danger because you are uncertain which service might send a helicopter. Call the working mountain or medical emergency number and describe the actual hazard and terrain.

Avoid entering unstable snow, deep ravines, exposed ice or falling-rock areas in an untrained rescue attempt. A second injured person may make rescue harder. Share a route plan and expected return time with someone you trust before a remote walk.

The HZS app: what it does and what it does not guarantee

The official Horská záchranná služba app can identify your location using GPS and, when its emergency button is pressed, dial 18 300 in HZS operating territory or 112 outside that territory. In the mountains, it can also send a message containing the location and other incident information. The service recommends registering and verifying your telephone number in advance and filling in useful emergency-profile details.

Important limitation: the app’s official FAQ says a completed telephone connection to the relevant emergency line is required to assure a dispatch response. Do not assume that simply tapping a button, generating a GPS marker or sending an unconfirmed message guarantees rescuers are on their way. The app cannot produce mobile connectivity where none is available.

The app also offers mountain-weather and hazard information, mountain huts, AED locations and other preparation tools. It is a useful supplement to outdoor competence, navigation, avalanche assessment and a trip plan, not a replacement for those safeguards. Source: HZS app official FAQs and HZS app information.

Seasonal mountain trail closures and winter access

Some mountain trails close seasonally to protect safety and the natural environment, particularly at higher elevations. The Mountain Rescue Service published an update on 30 October 2026 on winter seasonal trail closures. Visitors should confirm the actual trail’s status before heading out, especially where fresh snow or ice begins earlier than expected.

The HZS website publishes local rescue actions, current warnings and mountain conditions: Mountain Rescue Service official homepage. A trail being open does not mean conditions are suitable for every person or equipment level. Turn back if weather, daylight, snow or physical condition makes the trip unsafe.

Avalanches: serious hazards are local, not just regional

A regional avalanche bulletin may rate conditions, but not every individual slope has identical snowpack, wind loading, terrain traps or risk. Before skiing or hiking away from managed slopes, check current avalanche conditions, weather, road access and your companions’ training. Carry suitable equipment where required and know how to use it. Avoid closed or high-risk routes.

If a person is buried or injured after an avalanche, seek immediate HZS emergency help on 18 300 or through 112, give the last known position and number of people, and follow trained rescue procedures. Do not venture into another unstable slope without appropriate knowledge and equipment; a second avalanche may endanger rescuers as well as the original victims.

Slovakia’s weather warnings: SHMÚ

The Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMÚ) publishes weather warnings by district and region, including storms, strong winds, heavy rain, snow and other hazardous conditions. Its English warning page shows events, hazard levels and their hourly validity across regions. Warnings can be updated as new information arrives and should be checked close to the planned activity.

The warnings are especially useful before mountain trips, a long drive, a ferry or lake visit, and travel through areas vulnerable to flooding or heavy snow. But an official regional warning cannot tell you whether a particular bridge, avalanche slope or underpass is safe right now. Follow local closures and real-world hazard signs. Current official source: SHMÚ English weather warnings.

Floods, rivers and flash flooding

Heavy rain may cause flash flooding in low streets, rural valleys and river crossings. The Danube, Váh, Hron and other rivers can also experience dangerous rises depending on weather and geography. Never drive, walk or cycle through moving or unknown floodwater. It may conceal damage to a road or bridge, open drains, debris and live electrical equipment.

When authorities direct evacuation, leave early by the approved safe route if possible. Avoid flooded basements and underground garages, especially when electrical systems may be affected. If people are trapped, dial 112 and give the village or town, exact building, floor, number of people and which roads remain usable. Do not attempt a fast-water rescue without training.

A local warning may require moving to a safer higher level or leaving a floodplain entirely. Follow the instructions for the specific incident rather than treating a general weather forecast as an evacuation map. Keep important medicines, identity documents and communications available if flood warnings apply.

Road crashes: urban streets and mountain passes

For a serious vehicle crash, report urgent injuries or an immediate hazard through 112 or 155. Give the road number (D-motorway, R-expressway or another route), direction of travel, closest junction or exit, kilometre marker and nearby town. State if anyone is trapped, if a vehicle is burning or if fuel is leaking. Several services may be needed.

Stay out of moving traffic and do not approach a damaged truck with unknown hazardous cargo simply to photograph a label. If an injured person may have serious spinal trauma, avoid unnecessary movement unless the location is immediately dangerous. Follow the dispatcher for first aid and the safest way to meet emergency crews.

Gas, industrial chemicals and electricity hazards

A strong unknown chemical smell, gas leak, smoke plume or industrial incident needs careful decisions. Move away from the immediate danger, avoid flames and electrical switches near suspected gas and follow emergency authorities. A hazardous release may require sheltering inside with windows and ventilation closed; a serious building fire may require leaving by a safe route. These actions must not be confused.

Do not enter a contaminated area to identify the product involved or pull someone out without protective training. If people have severe breathing symptoms, collapse or another medical emergency, call 155 or 112 promptly and tell the operator about possible chemical exposure. Utility outages without injury generally belong to the relevant service provider.

Women experiencing violence: 0800 212 212

Slovakia’s national 0800 212 212 helpline provides free, confidential, 24-hour support for women experiencing violence, including information about protection, specialist services and legal or psychosocial assistance. The Ministry of Justice and the official national programme confirm the number. Relatives and helpers may also seek guidance.

For an assault happening now, call 158 or 112 instead of delaying emergency intervention. In situations where someone needs both safety and ongoing support, the appropriate emergency service can address the immediate risk and the specialist helpline can assist with the next steps. Official guidance: National Helpline for Women Experiencing Violence and Ministry of Justice victim support directory.

Child safety, missing children and trafficking support

The Ministry of Justice lists 116 111 as a nonstop child helpline, 116 000 for missing children, 0800 191 222 to report child neglect through labour and family services, and 0800 800 818 for trafficking victims. These services address safeguarding, information and referral needs.

If a child is currently being attacked, seriously injured or abducted in an immediately dangerous event, contact 112 or 158 for urgent protection and 155 for emergency medical help. Support organisations are important but should not replace a rescue or police response when danger is immediate.

Mental-health crisis support: 0800 800 566

0800 800 566 is Slovakia’s Nezábudka emotional and mental-health support hotline, listed by the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Labour. It provides free, anonymous assistance around the clock. It may help someone in emotional distress and their friends or family who are worried about them.

An urgent life-threatening medical event or immediate risk involving violence must still be addressed through 155/112 or 158. The support line is not the same as emergency field dispatch. Official directory: Slovak Ministry of Justice helpline contacts.

Useful Slovak phrases for reporting an emergency

‘Pomoc!’ — Help!
‘Potrebujem sanitku.’ — I need an ambulance.
‘Horí!’ — There is a fire.
‘Zavolajte políciu.’ — Call the police.
‘Osoba je v bezvedomí.’ — A person is unconscious.
‘Nedýcha normálne.’ — The person is not breathing normally.
‘Adresa je…’ — The address is…
‘Hovoríte po anglicky?’ — Do you speak English?
‘Sme pri…’ — We are near…

In a large city, keep a local-language address saved on your phone with floor and building entrance. In the mountains, a photograph of an actual trail sign or an accurate map coordinate may be more useful than a long attempted translation. Do not delay an urgent call while seeking perfect Slovak words. Ask a safe bystander or hotel employee to help pronounce a location when necessary.

How to give rescuers a precise Slovak location

Region and town: kraj, okres, mesto or obec, as appropriate.
Road and building: ulica and číslo domu, with building entrance and floor (poschodie).
Apartment: byt number, staircase and any locked entrance or intercom arrangement.
Motorway: D- or R-road, direction, exit, kilometre marker and nearest settlement.
High Tatras or another mountain: trail, mountain hut, valley, summit, ski lift and verified GPS position.
River or flood: named watercourse, bridge, village, safe road access and floor where people are trapped.
Callback: phone number, battery condition and whether the signal or vehicle access is uncertain.

A practical family and visitor emergency plan

Save 112, 155, 150, 158 and 18 300 with the correct descriptions.
Keep the full address, building entrance, apartment and a nearby landmark accessible offline.
If travelling in the mountains, install and verify the HZS app in advance, check trail closures and leave a route plan with someone.
Identify the safe fire exits, a meeting point and the nearest AED in a workplace or accommodation.
Review SHMÚ weather warnings, mountain conditions and local flood or evacuation notices.
Keep essential medicine, water, suitable food, torch, batteries and a charged power bank available for prolonged outages.
Prepare a separate support card with 0800 212 212, 116 111, 116 000 and 0800 800 566 where relevant.
Plan how children, older adults and people with disabilities or powered medical devices can obtain emergency help.

Common mistakes to avoid

Treating 18 300 as an ambulance number for every city when it is the Mountain Rescue Service’s specialist line.
Believing that pressing the HZS app SOS button guarantees dispatch without a successful phone connection.
Calling a mental-health or safeguarding support line in place of urgent police or medical response during a current dangerous incident.
Entering dangerous avalanche slopes or closed alpine paths to rescue someone without training.
Assuming no warning means a particular river crossing, road or snow slope is safe.
Driving through floodwater or entering an electrically dangerous basement to retrieve a vehicle.
Providing only ‘High Tatras’ or ‘Bratislava’ without a specific location, entrance or trail.
Delaying a call to find a perfect language translation or an insurance provider.

Frequently asked questions

What is Slovakia’s main emergency number?

112 is the integrated European emergency number. Direct service numbers are 155 medical, 150 fire and 158 police.

How do I call mountain rescue in Slovakia?

18 300 reaches Horská záchranná služba in HZS mountain areas. The HZS app can dial that line or 112 depending on your location.

Does the HZS app automatically send a rescue team?

No. The official FAQ explains that the emergency button can initiate a call and send information, but a completed phone connection to the rescue line is needed to assure dispatch. Never assume an unconfirmed message means rescuers are already coming.

What is the emergency ambulance number?

155 is the dedicated emergency medical number; 112 is also an appropriate general emergency route.

Which number helps women experiencing violence?

0800 212 212 is the free national 24/7 specialist line. Call 158 or 112 immediately for a violent attack or immediate serious threat.

Where should I check severe weather and mountain warnings?

Consult SHMÚ for weather warnings and HZS for mountain-specific conditions, trail closures and rescue updates. Check the actual region and validity period rather than an expired screenshot.

Official Slovakia sources and related guides

Emergency safety note: This is general public guidance, not live dispatch, a weather forecast or personal medical assessment. Service arrangements and mountain conditions can change quickly. Official government and HZS sources checked 6 November 2026. If someone faces immediate danger in Slovakia, call 112, 155, 150 or 158 now.