Guide to Emergency Places in Amsterdam: Safety and Assistance

Emergency Services

In Amsterdam, you can rely on a well-organized system of emergency services to assist you in case of any urgent situations. Here’s an overview of the key emergency services in Amsterdam:

• Emergency Number: In the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, the emergency number for all urgent situations is 112. This single number connects you to a central dispatcher who can direct your call to the appropriate service, including the police, fire department, or medical assistance.
• Police (Politie): If you need police assistance for non-emergency situations, you can visit the nearest police station or contact them directly by dialing 0900-8844. For emergencies or immediate police assistance, call 112.
• Fire Department (Brandweer): In case of a fire or emergency rescue, call 112 to reach the fire department.
• Medical Assistance (Ambulance): If you or someone else requires urgent medical attention, including an ambulance, call 112. The dispatcher will coordinate medical assistance and provide guidance on the necessary steps.

Accident & Emergency (A&E) Departments

Amsterdam, like many major cities, has well-equipped Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments, which are often referred to as “Spoedeisende Hulp” or “SEH” in Dutch. In the event of a medical emergency or if you require immediate medical attention, you can visit one of the following A&E departments in Amsterdam:

• OLVG Hospital (Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis): Oosterpark 9, 1091 AC Amsterdam
• Amsterdam UMC (Academic Medical Center): Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam
• Hospital Amsterdam West (Ook wel bekend als OLVG West): Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam
• BovenIJ Hospital: Statenjachtstraat 1, 1034 CS Amsterdam
• Dental Emergencies (Tandartsenpost Amsterdam): For dental emergencies, you can contact the Dental Emergency Service at 020 303 4500. 

In the case of a medical emergency, it’s crucial to dial the emergency number 112 to request an ambulance, as mentioned earlier. The medical dispatcher will guide you to the nearest A&E department based on your location and the nature of the emergency. These A&E departments are equipped to handle a wide range of medical issues, including accidents, injuries, acute illnesses, and other urgent healthcare needs.

Please note that healthcare in the Netherlands is often provided through a system of health insurance. If you’re a tourist, it’s advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover potential medical expenses, including those related to accidents and emergencies.

Police Stations in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has several police stations to maintain law and order, provide assistance, and ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Here are some notable police stations in Amsterdam:

• Politiebureau Amsterdam Centrum: Beursstraat 33, 1012 JT Amsterdam
• Politiebureau Amsterdam De Wallen: Beursstraat 33, 1012 JT Amsterdam
• Politiebureau Amsterdam Leidseplein: Marnixstraat 148, 1016 TE Amsterdam
• Politiebureau Amsterdam Oost – IJburg: Diemerparklaan 85, 1087 GZ Amsterdam
• Politiebureau Amsterdam Zuid: Van Leijenberghlaan 150, 1082 DZ Amsterdam
• Politiebureau Amsterdam West: Postjeskade 1, 1058 DE Amsterdam

These police stations are part of the wider Amsterdam-Amstelland police region and are dedicated to maintaining public safety, handling emergencies, and providing assistance as needed. In the event of an emergency, it’s important to dial 112, the emergency number for immediate assistance, and the dispatcher will direct the appropriate response, including dispatching police when necessary.

Fire Stations in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has several fire stations to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents and visitors. Here are some notable fire stations in different areas of Amsterdam:

• Brandweerkazerne Amstelveen: Fokkerweg 300, 1438 AN Oude Meer, Netherlands. Phone: +31 20 555 6666
• Brandweerkazerne Osdorp: Pieter Calandlaan 2, 1065 KH Amsterdam, Netherlands. Phone +31 20-555 6666
• Brandweerkazerne Anton: Danzigerkade 1, 1013 AP Amsterdam, Netherlands. Phone: +31 20 555 6363
• Brandweerkazerne Nico: Klaprozenweg 55, 1033 NN Amsterdam, Netherlands. Phone: +31 20 555 6000
• Brandweerkazerne Willem: Dintelstraat 140, 1078 VD Amsterdam, Netherlands. +31 20 555 6666

These fire stations are part of the Amsterdam-Amstelland Fire Department, responsible for firefighting, fire prevention, and responding to a wide range of emergencies, including rescues, hazardous materials incidents, and more. In the event of a fire or other emergencies, you should call the emergency number 112 to request assistance from the fire department or other emergency services.

Emergency Shelters in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers various resources and emergency shelters to provide assistance and temporary accommodation to individuals in need, particularly those experiencing homelessness. These shelters aim to ensure the safety and well-being of those facing difficult circumstances. Here are some key resources and organizations in Amsterdam that offer emergency shelter services:

• Municipal Homelessness Services (Loket Zorg en Samenleven): The Municipality of Amsterdam provides homeless services and can help individuals find emergency shelter and support. They work with local shelters and organizations to assist those in need.
• Regenboog Groep (Rainbow Group): Regenboog Groep is a charitable organization that offers a range of services, including emergency shelters and outreach programs for people experiencing homelessness. Address: Krom Boomssloot 22, 1011 GW Amsterdam
• Leger des Heils (Salvation Army): The Salvation Army in Amsterdam operates shelters and provides support to those who are homeless. They offer various services to help individuals regain stability.
• HVO-Querido: offers support and shelter to homeless individuals, including those with complex needs, to help them find long-term housing solutions.
• Stichting Stoelenproject (Foundation Chair Project): This foundation operates the Stoelenproject, a nightly shelter during the winter months where people experiencing homelessness can find a safe place to sleep.
• Volksbond (People’s Union): Volksbond provides support, accommodation, and social reintegration services to individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
• Dienst Werk en Inkomen (DWI): DWI is the Department of Work and Income in Amsterdam and can provide information and assistance to those seeking emergency accommodation.

Please note that the availability of emergency shelter spaces may vary depending on the time of year and specific circumstances. If you or someone you encounter is in need of emergency shelter, it’s essential to contact local authorities or organizations like those listed above for assistance. Amsterdam’s resources and organizations work to provide safe and supportive environments for individuals facing homelessness or other crises.

Embassies and Consulates

Amsterdam is home to numerous embassies and consulates representing countries from around the world. These diplomatic missions provide a range of services to their citizens, including passport renewal, visa applications, and assistance during emergencies. Here are some of the embassies and consulates located in Amsterdam:

• Embassy of the United States of America: Museumplein 19, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
• Embassy of the United Kingdom: Koningslaan 44, 1075 AG Amsterdam
• Embassy of Canada: Address: Sophialaan 7, 2514 JP The Hague
• Embassy of Australia: Koningslaan 44, 1075 AE Amsterdam
• Embassy of Germany: Groot Hertoginnelaan 18-20, 2517 EG The Hague
• Embassy of France: Anna Paulownastraat 76, 2518 BH The Hague
• Embassy of Japan: Tobias Asserlaan 2, 2517 KC The Hague
• Embassy of China: Willem Lodewijklaan 10, 2517 JT The Hague
• Embassy of Russia: Andries Bickerweg 2, 2517 JP The Hague
• Embassy of India: Buitenrustweg 2, 2517 KD The Hague

Please note that the above list is not exhaustive, and there are many more embassies and consulates in Amsterdam and The Hague representing countries from around the world. If you require specific services or assistance, such as visa applications or emergency support, you should contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Amsterdam for guidance.

Emergency Alerts

Amsterdam, like many modern cities, has systems in place to provide emergency alerts and notifications to its residents and visitors in the event of significant incidents or threats. Here are some of the channels and methods through which emergency alerts and information may be disseminated in Amsterdam.

Channels for Receiving Emergency Alerts:

• NL-Alert: NL-Alert is the national public warning system in the Netherlands. It is used to send emergency alerts, including information about incidents, disasters, and public safety threats, to mobile phones. You will receive NL-Alert messages if you are in an affected area, and your mobile phone is compatible with the system.
• Emergency Sirens: In the event of a major emergency or disaster, emergency sirens may be activated to alert the public. These sirens are typically used for major incidents, such as floods or large-scale evacuations.
• Amsterdam Municipal Website: The official website of the Municipality of Amsterdam (Amsterdam.nl) may provide information and updates during emergencies or significant events. You can check their website for official announcements and instructions.
• Amsterdam Public Transportation Authority (GVB): If there are disruptions or incidents affecting public transportation, the GVB may issue alerts through their website and social media channels.
• Local Media: Local news outlets, such as newspapers, radio stations, and television channels, often provide real-time updates on emergencies and significant events in Amsterdam.
• Social Media: Amsterdam’s municipal government and emergency services may use social media platforms to communicate important information during emergencies. It’s advisable to follow their official social media accounts for updates.
• Emergency Services: In the event of an emergency, you may receive alerts and guidance directly from emergency services, such as the police, fire department, or medical services.

In the event of an emergency, it’s important to stay informed and follow official instructions and guidance provided by the authorities. Ensure that your mobile phone is set up to receive NL-Alerts, and stay connected to reliable local news sources and official social media accounts for updates. Additionally, have a basic understanding of emergency procedures and evacuation routes if you are in an unfamiliar area.

Conclusion

Amsterdam is a welcoming and safe city for travelers, but knowing where to turn for assistance during an emergency is crucial. The 112 emergency number connects you to the necessary services promptly. Hospitals, dental services, police stations, and fire stations are well-distributed throughout the city, ensuring you can access help when needed. Traveling prepared and informed not only enhances your experience but also ensures that you can confidently handle any unforeseen situation. While enjoying your visit to Amsterdam, remember that safety and assistance are readily available when required.