Contacting emergency services without speaking: 114 by text, chat or video
What is this for
114 is the emergency number for deaf, hard-of-hearing, deafblind or aphasic people (people who have lost the ability to speak). It is free and open 24/7. You can contact it by text message, chat, video or images. An agent passes your alert to the ambulance service (Samu), the fire brigade, the police, the gendarmerie or emergency shelter services.
Important points
- Warning: Prepare before you need it: download the "Urgence 114" app and save 114 in your contacts.
- Note: Are you a victim of violence and cannot speak (the attacker is nearby)? The service-public.gouv.fr website says you can send a free text to 114 with your name, address and the reason.
- Note: The 114 email address is only for administrative questions. You cannot use it to ask for help.
Steps to follow
Step 1: Choose how to make contact
Send a text message to 114, or use the free "Urgence 114" app on a smartphone or tablet, or the urgence114.fr website for video and chat. Agents use French Sign Language (LSF).
Step 2: Give three pieces of information first
Write your name, your exact address (town, street, number, floor, door code) and the reason for your call: what is happening, who is hurt, whether there is a danger.
Step 3: Answer the agent's questions
The 114 agent may be deaf or hearing. They ask you questions and then contact the right emergency service near you themselves. Stay reachable.
Step 4: Follow instructions until help arrives
Keep your phone with you and read the messages. Do not end the conversation until the agent tells you to.
Step 5: If you can make a voice call, call 112
The 114 website says that people who can make a voice call should dial 112 (or 15, 17, 18).
Official links
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