Nobody plans for an emergency — but knowing what to say means you can act quickly if one happens. These are the phrases you hope you'll never need: medical help, police, a lost passport, or simply finding yourself disoriented. In France, 112 is the universal emergency number and works across all of Europe. Even knowing one or two of these phrases could make a real difference.

Immediate help

Shout this to alert people nearby that you need urgent help

Tell a bystander to call the police — or call 17 yourself

Tell someone to call for medical help — or dial 15 (SAMU) or 112 yourself

A clear request for help in any situation — use with anyone nearby

Conveys urgency — use this to make clear the situation is serious

Medical

Ask bystanders or call for help finding a doctor

Tell someone you've been physically hurt — useful at the scene of an accident

Use this to explain that you're feeling unwell, even if nothing visible is wrong

Ask anyone nearby or look for signs — hôpital is clearly signposted in most cities

For minor medical needs — pharmacies in France are well-stocked and pharmacists are trained to advise

Lost & found

If you've become separated from your group or can't find your way back

Report this to the nearest police station (commissariat) as soon as possible — you'll need a police report for your travel insurance

Report this to police as well — especially if credit cards were inside

A direct request for help from any person nearby

A more urgent version — use this if the first request wasn't heard or understood