What do to in an emergency in Scotland

If you’re a tourist and you happen to find yourself in an emergency, it’s always a good idea to know what to do. Hopefully your guide book or other travel information will have this information, but if it doesn’t, feel free to print this out and keep it with you.  (Keep in mind that the NHS emergency numbers are not the same in England and Scotland so this is what to do if you’re in Edinburgh.)

• If in doubt, dial 999.  You’ll be sent an ambulance straightaway and the operator can make sure you get connected with whom you need.  It depends on the phone model, but the US 911 number and the European 112 number sometimes will work, but best to stick with 999!  999 is also who you call for fire, coast guard, mountain rescue (we told you to wear proper footwear!)
• If you have a health emergency but don’t think you need an ambulance, phone NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24. A nurse will help you determine if you should go to a hospital or can wait until morning, and will make sure you know where the nearest GP or pharmacy is.
• If you have a non-health situtation and want the police, phone their communications centre on 0131 311 3131. They’ll redirect you to the nearest police station who will advise on next steps.

Hopefully you don’t need these numbers, and if you do have a problem your hosts at your accommodation can help.   However, these instructions are only meant as guidance; we can’t anticipate every type of emergency, so always phone 999 if in doubt.

Photo courtesy of Chris Violette