Emergency Numbers Everyone Should Have

In an emergency, every second counts. Whether it’s a medical crisis, a fire, a car accident, or a natural disaster, having the right phone numbers saved in your contacts—or written down in an easy-to-access place—can make all the difference.

We tend to assume we’ll remember what to do in a crisis, but stress and panic can make even the most basic information hard to recall. That’s why it’s essential to prepare ahead of time. 

Emergency Numbers to Save:

Local Emergency Services (911)

• Use for life-threatening emergencies: fire, medical, police.

  
  

• Teach children the numbers 9-1-1 instead of 9-11. In a panic, some people will look for the “11” on the phone.

  
  

• Save it as “Emergency” and teach kids how and when to use it.

  
  

Poison Control

• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

  
  

  Available 24/7 for accidental ingestion, drug interactions, or chemical exposure.

  
  

• Save this even if you don’t have children—it’s useful for adults too.

  
  

Your Doctor or Pediatrician

• Direct line for advice in non-life-threatening medical situations.

  
  

• Include after-hours or on-call number if available.

  
  

Nearest Hospital and Urgent Care

• Save the address and phone number of the nearest ER and urgent care clinic.

  
  

• Add multiple locations if you travel often or have a second home.

  
  

Pharmacy (Number for your neighborhood pharmacy, as well as a 24 hour pharmacy)

• Handy for prescription issues, medication questions, or refills during emergencies.

  
  

Personal Emergency Contacts

ICE (In Case of Emergency) Contact

• Label at least one contact as “ICE” in your phone (e.g., “ICE – Mom” or “ICE – Partner”).

  
  

• Emergency responders often check for ICE contacts if you’re unconscious or unable to speak.

  
  

Close Family and Friends

• Save at least two trusted people who can help coordinate care, pick up children, or provide support in a crisis.

  
  

Work Contact or Supervisor

• Especially important if your job involves physical risk or you’re in a position of responsibility.

Home and Utility-Related Numbers:

Landlord or Property Manager

• Report urgent issues like gas leaks, broken locks, or flooding.

  
  

Utilities and Maintenance

• Electric company (for outages or downed lines)

  
  

• Gas company (for suspected gas leaks)

  
  

• Water company

  
  

• Roadside assistance (if you have a membership like AAA)

Pet-Related Emergency Numbers:

Veterinarian and Emergency Animal Hospital

• Especially important for pet owners. Save both your regular vet and a 24/7 emergency clinic.

  
  

Other Useful Emergency Resources:

Local Non-Emergency Police Line

• For noise complaints, minor traffic accidents, or reporting suspicious activity without tying up 911.

  
  

Mental Health Crisis Line

• In the U.S., dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

  
  

• Save the number of local mental health services or hotlines as well.

  
  

Insurance Providers

• Health, auto, home, and renters insurance companies—store the emergency claims numbers and your policy numbers.

  
  

Tips to Keep Your Emergency Contacts Effective:

• Post a printed list on your fridge or in a home command center.

  
  

• Share the list with babysitters, house-sitters, or older children.

  
  

• Include medical info like allergies or chronic conditions with the contact sheet.

  
  

• Keep a copy in your wallet or glove compartment.

  
  

• Update regularly—especially after moving, switching doctors, or changing jobs.

  
  

Conclusion 

You may never need most of these numbers—but in an emergency, having them at your fingertips could save a life, protect your property, or prevent a crisis from getting worse.