Overview: Why Emergency Numbers Matter
Knowing the correct emergency numbers in Sri Lanka is essential for your safety and peace of mind, whether you are visiting as a tourist or living as a resident. Quick access to police, ambulance, fire, and specialized support can make a critical difference in urgent situations. This guide provides the most up-to-date and reliable emergency contact information for Sri Lanka, along with practical tips for using these services effectively.
Essential Emergency Numbers in Sri Lanka
| Service | Number(s) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Police Emergency | 119 / 118 | For police assistance in any urgent situation |
| Ambulance & Medical (Suwasariya) | 1990 | Nationwide free ambulance service for medical emergencies |
| Fire Brigade | 110 | National fire and rescue service |
| Tourist Police | 011-2421052 | Specialized support for tourists (lost items, harassment) |
| Emergency Police Mobile Squad | 011-5717171 | Rapid response unit for critical situations |
| Report Crimes | 011-2691500 | To report criminal activities |
| Accident Service – General Hospital Colombo | 011-2691111 | Specialized accident and trauma care |
| Fire & Ambulance (Colombo) | 011-2422222 | Centralized fire and ambulance services in Colombo |
| Government Information Center | 1919 | General inquiries and information services |
| National Mental Health Helpline | 1926 | Support for mental health concerns |
| Women and Child Protection | 1938 | Assistance for women and children |
Specialized Hotlines & Support Services
- Tourist Police: Specially trained to assist foreign visitors with lost property, harassment, or emergencies. Available in major tourist areas and airports.
- Mental Health Helpline (1926): Free, confidential support for anyone experiencing mental health issues.
- Women and Child Protection (1938): Dedicated to supporting women and children in distress.
- Government Information Center (1919): For general information, government services, and non-emergency queries.
- Foreign Nationals: Contact your embassy or consulate for additional support in emergencies. Keep your embassy's contact details handy.
How to Use Emergency Numbers in Sri Lanka
- Language: Emergency operators widely speak English, especially in tourist areas and major cities.
- Location Details: Clearly state your location, nearby landmarks, or establishments to help responders find you quickly.
- Stay Calm: Speak clearly and remain calm to communicate your emergency effectively.
- Mobile & Landline Access: All emergency numbers can be dialed from any phone within Sri Lanka, including mobile phones and landlines.
- No Country Code Needed: When dialing within Sri Lanka, do not use the +94 country code for emergency services.
Tips for Travelers and Expats
- Save Numbers: Store key emergency numbers in your phone and keep a written copy in your wallet or travel bag.
- Know Your Embassy: Have your embassy or consulate's contact details accessible in case of lost passports or legal issues.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies and evacuation if needed.
- Local SIM Card: Consider getting a local SIM card for reliable access to emergency services and local support.
- Stay Informed: Check with your hotel or local hosts for any area-specific emergency contacts or procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I call emergency numbers from any phone in Sri Lanka?
Yes, you can dial emergency numbers from any mobile or landline within Sri Lanka.
Is English spoken by emergency operators?
Yes, especially in tourist areas and major cities. Sinhala and Tamil are also widely spoken.
What should I do if I lose my passport or need legal help?
Contact your embassy or consulate for assistance. The Tourist Police can also help with lost property and emergencies.
Are emergency services free in Sri Lanka?
Police, fire, and ambulance services (including Suwasariya 1990) are free of charge for emergencies.
How do I get help for mental health or family issues?
Call the National Mental Health Helpline (1926) or Women and Child Protection (1938) for specialized support.
What if I need help outside Colombo or major cities?
Emergency numbers work nationwide. In remote areas, response times may vary, so provide clear location details.
Should I use +94 for emergency numbers?
No. Dial the numbers directly as listed above when in Sri Lanka.
Stay safe and keep these numbers accessible during your stay in Sri Lanka!
