Accidents and emergencies in Tunisia
Life in a new country can be full of surprises. Unfortunately, not all of these surprises are pleasant. In the unfortunate case that you find yourself in an emergency situation in Tunisia, it's best to be prepared. In this post, we will share what you need to know when handling an emergency in Tunisia.
Emergency phone numbers in Tunisia
If you find yourself in an emergency situation in Tunisia, you should call 197.
Emergency: 197
Fire: 198
Ambulance: 190
Note that most emergency phone operators in Tunisia will speak Arabic and, in some cases, French. Your chances of finding an English-speaking emergency operator are pretty low. This is why it is recommended that you have someone speaking either Arabic or French with you to talk to the emergency operator.
To describe your emergency, you will need to provide the following:
- Your name
- The type of accident you are in
- The exact location of your emergency
- Whether anyone has been injured and their current state
Depending on the nature of your emergency, additional information may be requested.
How to report a crime in Tunisia?
To report a crime in Tunisia, you can dial 197. If you've been a victim of a serious crime, you should also contact your embassy or consulate in Tunisia and ask for immediate assistance.
Medical emergencies in Tunisia
If you require any medical assistance in Tunisia, you can dial 190.
Note that ambulance services are generally available in bigger cities in Tunisia. In smaller towns, you may have a better chance of getting to the hospital on time by driving or taking a taxi.
Once you call the ambulance, you will probably be taken to the nearest hospital. You may then be transferred to the hospital that is affiliated with your insurance provider. Note that you may be asked to pay for your treatment upfront even if you have health insurance in Tunisia. Make sure to keep your receipts so that you can be reimbursed for your expenses later.
Make sure you are well familiar with the healthcare system in Tunisia. This will help you be prepared and make informed decisions.
Road emergencies in Tunisia
Driving in Tunisia can be quite different from driving in your home country. And if you are not used to the unspoken traffic rules, driving in Tunisia can also be dangerous.
Driving in Tunisia is more "aggressive" compared to driving in Europe. Rules and traffic signs are often ignored, and drivers can even drive on the wrong side of the road. In rural areas, you will also encounter a lot of motorbikes, mopeds, and even bicycles on the road.
Pedestrians also often contribute to the danger of driving in Tunisia. Jaywalking is common, and you may even see people crossing controlled-access highways.
This is why it is not advised that you drive outside big cities or major resort areas.
Note that if you are involved in a traffic accident in Tunisia that results in serious injury or death, the police will probably take you into protective custody until you are cleared of responsibility. This means that you may spend up to two months in detention.
If you are taken into custody, make sure to contact your embassy or consulate to inform them of your whereabouts.
To call the towing services in Tunisia, you can dial the following numbers: 71 801 211 or 71 840 840.
