In case of an emergency (medical, fire, crime), what number should I call?

In New Zealand, for all emergencies, dial 111.

My friend, it's very simple; you only need to remember one number: 111.

Unlike China, which has separate numbers like 110, 120, and 119, in New Zealand, whether you need the Police, Ambulance, or Fire services, you dial 111 directly. This number is the single point of contact for all emergencies, making it very easy to remember.

Under what circumstances should you call 111?

You can divide situations into three categories, just as mentioned in your question:

• Medical Emergency

  • For example: someone suddenly collapses, has a heart attack, severe injury, difficulty breathing, major bleeding, etc.
  • You should tell the operator: "I need an ambulance."

• Fire Emergency

  • For example: a house is on fire, you see a bushfire, there's a serious car accident with someone trapped in the vehicle, or you smell pungent chemical leaks.
  • You should tell the operator: "I need the fire service."

• Police Emergency (Crime/Safety)

  • For example: you are witnessing a crime in progress (burglary, robbery, fighting), your or someone else's life is in danger, or you see a vehicle being driven dangerously.
  • The key is "in progress" or "just happened" emergencies.
  • You should tell the operator: "I need the police."

What happens after you dial 111?

Don't be nervous; the process is very clear, step by step:

1. The first sentence is crucial: As soon as the call connects, the operator will ask you: "Fire, Ambulance, or Police?"
2. Your answer: Based on your situation, clearly state which service you need, for example, simply say "Police" or "Ambulance".
3. Transfer: They will then immediately transfer you to the operator of the corresponding department.
4. Provide key information: The new operator will then ask you several crucial questions. You must answer as calmly and clearly as possible:
   • Where are you? This is the most important information! Be as specific as possible with the address, e.g., street number, street name, suburb, city. If you don't know the exact address, describe nearby landmarks, e.g., "at the north gate of xxx Park," "in the parking lot of xxx Supermarket."
   • What is happening? Briefly and directly describe the situation.
   • Who needs help? Tell them how many people are involved and their condition.
   • Your phone number and name. This allows them to contact you later.

Some reassuring tips for you

• What if I don't speak good English? Don't worry! If you have difficulty speaking English, you can first say "Chinese interpreter, please." They have a telephone interpreting service (Language Line) and can quickly find an interpreter to join the call and assist you. So, language barrier is absolutely not an obstacle.

• When should you NOT call 111? If the situation is not an emergency, calling 111 will tie up resources needed by people in genuine distress.

  • Non-urgent crime reporting: For example, your car was stolen last night, or your house was burgled a few days ago, but there's no immediate danger now. In such cases, you should call the non-emergency police number 105, or report it online.
  • Non-urgent medical advice: If you just feel a little unwell and want to consult a doctor, you can call New Zealand's Healthline at 0800 611 116. Nurses are available 24/7 to provide free advice.
  • Other everyday matters, like noisy neighbours or a lost passport, should not be reported to 111.

To summarise:

In New Zealand, if you face any urgent, life-threatening, or property-threatening situation, don't think twice, immediately pick up the phone and dial 111. Remembering this one number is like remembering all life-saving numbers. Safety first!