
Emergency Contacts & Services in Buenos Aires, Argentina
1. 911 Emergency Services
Buenos Aires uses 911 for emergencies, covering police, medical, and fire services. It is a centralized number for travelers experiencing urgent situations requiring immediate response. This service ensures rapid access to police, firefighting, and medical help.
- Availability: The service is available 24/
2. - Multilingual Support
Operators may offer support in English.
- Quick Response: Prioritizes life-threatening situations for faster assistance.
3. Tourist Police
The Tourist Police Unit offers help to visitors facing theft, fraud, or related issues. They are trained to address foreigners' concerns and often speak English. Located in tourist-heavy areas like Recoleta and San Telmo, they provide reassurance and a sense of safety.
- Accessibility: Stations in key tourist spots.
- Language Support: English-speaking officers for ease of communication.
- Focus: Specifically trained to deal with tourists' issues.
4. U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires
For American citizens, the U.S. Embassy provides consular support, including passport replacement and emergency assistance. It's a crucial contact in cases of legal trouble or emergencies abroad. They are equipped to guide citizens through local bureaucracy.
- Location: Centrally located for easy access.
- Services: Offers specific services for U.S. citizens.
- Assistance: Provides guidance on local laws and regulations.
5. British Consulate General
The British Consulate in Buenos Aires assists UK nationals with various emergencies, including lost passports and legal issues. They are an essential contact if complications arise during your stay. The consulate can assist with contacting relatives and arranging return to the UK if needed.
- Nationals Supported: Exclusive support for UK citizens.
- Expertise: Strong understanding of local legalities.
- Emergency Passport Services: Provides urgent travel documents.
6. Ambulance Service (SAME)
SAME is the public ambulance service in Buenos Aires, delivering emergency medical assistance. They provide pre-hospital care swiftly, which is critical in medical emergencies. Contacting them directly can expedite medical attention at no cost.
- Speed: Priority on quick medical response.
- Cost: Free service for public healthcare emergencies.
- Coverage: Extensive network covering the entire city.
7. Buenos Aires Fire Department
Firefighters in Buenos Aires respond to fires and other related emergencies. They are known for efficiency and their ability to handle various dangerous situations. Their role is crucial for protection against fire hazards.
- Response Time: Quick arrival at fire sites.
- Expertise: Trained to handle different types of emergency situations.
- Coverage Area: Services encompass all neighborhoods of Buenos Aires.
8. Strangers Emergency Health Care Line (Hospital General de Agudos Dr. Teodoro Álvarez)
This service provides medical advice and emergency consultations over the phone. It's beneficial for travelers unfamiliar with healthcare systems. They guide on steps to take during medical concerns.
- Language: Offers consultations in multiple languages.
- Accessibility: Available to foreigners without local health coverage.
- Guidance: Offers advice and next steps for medical issues.
9. Retiro Bus Terminal Information Desk
Provides guidance on bus schedules and lost belongings at Retiro, the main bus terminal. Ideal for travelers facing issues with transport or city navigation. Staff can assist in Spanish and English.
- Location: Central transportation hub.
- Language Support: Assistance available in English.
- Services: Information and help desk services.
10. Buenos Aires City Tourist Assistance Center
This center offers general travel information and can assist in emergencies such as lost items or directions. It's a good starting point if you encounter non-urgent issues that still need solving. Staff are friendly and accustomed to helping foreigners.
- Support: Offers city maps and directions.
- Guidance: Specialists in tourist needs.
- Language: Multilingual staff available.
11. Subway Police
Specialized police force tasked with maintaining safety in the Buenos Aires subway system. They work to combat crime and provide a secure travel experience in the city's underground transport network. Their presence helps deter theft and other crimes.
- Location: Present in all subway stations.
- Vigilance: Focused on preventing and addressing in-transit crimes.
- Support: Assists travelers with subway-related issues.
12. Hospital Italiano Emergency Room
A private hospital known for quality healthcare services, offering an emergency room for urgent medical situations. Suitable for travelers seeking private healthcare. They offer advanced medical technology and staff with strong English proficiency.
- Quality: High standard of medical care.
- Language Support: English-speaking staff for communication ease.
- Accessibility: Open to both locals and foreigners.
13. App “BA Cómo Llego”
This app helps navigate Buenos Aires using public transport information, crucial for orientation in the city. It can assist in planning safe routes and finding emergency facilities quickly. It supports multiple languages for ease of use by travelers.
- Language: Offers multilingual navigation options.
- Coordinates: Provides live transit data.
- Platform: Available on both iOS and Android devices.
14. Buenos Aires COVID-19 Hotline
A dedicated line providing COVID-19 related information, testing site locations, and guidance. Relevant for travelers needing updates on health regulations during their visit. The service helps with navigating health procedures amidst the pandemic.
- Alerts: Updates on current COVID guidelines.
- Assistance: Advises on testing locations and protocols.
- Access: Available to locals and tourists alike.
15. Call 107 for COVID Emergency
A specialized line for handling acute symptoms or COVID-19 emergencies. Provided by the health authorities, it ensures timely medical advice and intervention for suspected cases. It is critical for rapid assessment and response.
- Purpose: Focused on COVID-specific emergencies.
- Coordination: Works with hospitals for appropriate actions.
- Accessibility: Open to anyone in the city.
16. Argentine Federal Police Lost and Found
Helps recover lost items through the federal police system. This service is helpful for getting back important documents or belongings lost during travels. It provides legal and effective means of retrieving lost possessions.
- Process: Efficient in handling item recovery.
- Support: Contact in case of important item losses.
- Reporting: Offers structured approach for lost item reports.
17. Buenos Aires Psychological Crisis Line
Offers mental health support and crisis intervention for those needing emotional or psychological help. Travelers can access this line for guidance during stressful situations abroad. Specialists provide confidential and sensitive support.
- Confidentiality: Ensures privacy for callers.
- Professional Support: Access to trained mental health professionals.
- Availability: Open to anyone needing emotional assistance.
18. Broken ATM or Bank Issue Hotline
Assistance line for ATM malfunctions or bank-related issues that travelers might encounter. Having immediate access ensures speedy resolution of banking troubles. They cater to problems like ATM card retention or cash withdrawal failures.
- Resolution: Efficient handling of common banking issues.
- Coverage: Supports all major bank ATMs in the city.
- Accessibility: Direct contact options for swift help.
19. Guardia Nacional de Argentina for Natural Disasters
This specific team addresses natural disasters like floods or earthquakes that may occur while traveling. They coordinate safety measures and provide shelters if needed. The guards are trained for crisis management and evacuation.
- Readiness: Prepared for various natural calamities.
- Coordination: Works with rescue and shelter services.
- Response: Rapid deployment in crisis scenarios.
20. Child Protection Emergency Line
Ensures protection for minors facing danger or neglect, an important contact for families traveling with children. They provide immediate intervention and work with local authorities for safety. Enhances security for minor travelers in distress.
- Focus: Prioritizes children's well-being and safety.
- Collaboration: Engages with children’s services network.
- Availability: 24/7 for emergencies involving minors.
21. Translation Services for Emergencies
Connects travelers with translators during critical situations where language barriers present challenges. Ensures clear communication in legal, medical, or official circumstances. Provides peace of mind where precise understanding is crucial.
- Accuracy: Guarantees correct and clear translations.
- Languages Supported: Encompasses multiple languages.
- Professionalism: Access to certified translators.