Washington D.C., United States

Emergency contacts in Washington D.C.

2 emergency services in Washington D.C. you may need as a traveller — tourist police, ambulance, fire brigade and more. Save these before you go out.

Last updated 2026-08-09

Police, fire and ambulance across all US states and territories.

Service: Emergency
Number: 911
When to call: From a mobile, 911 automatically locates you. State your emergency clearly when the call is answered.

Maritime distress on VHF radio. Or call the nearest Coast Guard station.

Service: Maritime
Number: VHF Ch 16
When to call: Nearest station number varies by coast. In life-threatening situations at sea, broadcast 'MAYDAY' on VHF Ch 16.

More about Washington D.C.