When a crisis hits, knowing who to contact can really save the day. Paraguay has a series of national emergency lines set up to handle everything from accidents and medical emergencies to security threats and issues involving vulnerable individuals. This guide highlights the essential numbers that everyone living or visiting Paraguay should keep close at hand, along with what services they offer and when to use them.
Emergency and public safety contact
911 – National Police: This is the main number for urgent police help. It is used for theft, violence, suspicious behaviour, traffic accidents, and any other situation needing immediate law enforcement action. When you call, operators will send the nearest patrol and, if necessary, connect with other services.
Fire and rescue services
132 – Volunteer Firefighters: The Volunteer Firefighters tackle fires, vehicle accidents, rescues from hazardous situations, and both urban and rural emergencies. Known for their quick responses, Paraguay’s fire brigades operate through a vast network of volunteers across the country.
Medical emergencies
141 – Emergency Medical Services (SEME): SEME handles pre-hospital medical emergencies. This includes deploying ambulances, providing stabilisation, and transporting patients to hospitals. Call 141 for serious injuries, sudden illnesses, loss of consciousness, or any health issues that need urgent care.
Support lines for vulnerable individuals
137 – SOS Mujer: A confidential helpline for women experiencing violence, harassment, or threats. SOS Mujer (meaning SOS woman) provides advice, emotional support, legal resources, and coordination with protective services. Operators can bring emergency teams into action when someone’s safety is at risk.
147 – Children’s Helpline (Fono Ayuda): This line helps children and teens facing abuse, neglect, bullying, or emotional challenges. Adults can also use it to voice concerns about a child’s wellbeing. The service works with child protection agencies to take action when necessary.
Utilities and public services
118 – COPACO | Telephone Directory: Operated by the national telecommunications company, this line is for getting directory assistance. You can ask for phone numbers for homes, businesses, and institutions, or enquire about telecom services.
160 – ANDE (National Electricity Administration): ANDE’s hotline lets you report power outages, electrical dangers, damaged cables, or issues relating to electricity supply. Repair teams are dispatched as needed.
162 – ESSAP (Water Services Company): Use this number for emergencies related to water services. It covers supply outages, leaks, sewer problems, and issues with public water systems.
Language tips
Emergency services in Paraguay mainly operate in Spanish, and it is highly unlikely that you will find an operator who speaks English. Unlike some other places, Paraguay’s emergency lines do not use interpreters or third-party language services.
If you are visiting or living here and do not speak Spanish, it is a good idea to have some basic emergency phrases handy or to ask someone nearby for help with the call. Clear communication is key to getting a faster and more effective response.
Useful phrases for callers who do not speak Spanish:
- I need help: Necesito ayuda
- I need an ambulance: Necesito una ambulancia
- I need firefighters: Necesito a los bomberos
- I need the police: Necesito a la policía
- My location is…: Mi ubicación es…
- There is a robbery / assault: Hay un robo / un asalto
- Someone is unconscious: Hay alguien inconsciente
- Please come quickly: Por favor, vengan rápido
- I need someone who speaks English: Necesito a alguien que hable inglés
Calling emergency numbers in Paraguay: More tips
- Make sure to clearly state your location, including the street name, neighbourhood, and any landmarks;
- Stay on the line until the operator confirms your details;
- Keep your descriptions concise and straightforward;
- Use the right service to get a quicker response;
- Keep in mind that Spanish will be necessary for the call.
Have these numbers handy
Storing emergency numbers in your phone, jotting them down in a visible spot at home, and sharing them with family ensures help is always just a call away. Paraguay’s emergency system relies on teamwork among police, firefighters, medical teams, and specialised support services, making it crucial to have these numbers readily accessible for everyone’s safety.
