While London is generally a very safe city for travelers, having emergency contact information readily available provides peace of mind during your literary adventure. Keep this information saved in your phone and carry a printed copy in your travel documents. Most importantly, remember that help is always available, and London's emergency services are highly professional and responsive.
London Emergency Contact Information
Life Emergency: 999 or 112
Police Non-Emergency: 101
Medical Non-Emergency: 111
US Embassy: +44-20-7499-9000
Nearest Hospital: University College Hospital, 235 Euston Road
UK Emergency Numbers
Life-Threatening Emergencies
999 or 112 - Fire, Police, Ambulance
Available 24/7 from any phone (landline or mobile)
Calls are completely free
Works even with no phone credit
Both numbers connect to the same services
When to call 999/112:
Crime in progress or immediate danger
Medical emergencies (heart attack, stroke, serious injury)
Fire or serious accidents
When someone's life is at risk
Non-Emergency Services
101 - Police (Non-Emergency)
Report crimes that are not in progress
Car theft, property damage, vandalism
111 - NHS Non-Emergency Medical Help
Urgent medical concerns that aren't life-threatening
Available 24/7, calls are free
Can also use NHS 111 online service
Fully trained medical advisors
U.S. Embassy - London
Address: 33 Nine Elms Lane, London SW11 7US General
From US: 011-44-20-7499-9000
Emergency After-Hours: +44-20-7499-9000
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Services for US Citizens:
Emergency assistance for US citizens
Lost/stolen passport replacement
Emergency contact with family in US
Legal and medical referrals
Location: Near Vauxhall tube station (Victoria line), 10-minute walk along Nine Elms Lane
Nearest Hospital to Your Hotels
University College Hospital (UCH)
Perfect for Fitzrovia/Bloomsbury Area
Address: 235 Euston Road, London NW1 2BU
Emergency Department: 24/7 full emergency services
Phone: +44-20-3456-7890
Transport:
Warren Street tube (2 minutes walk)
Euston Square tube (3 minutes walk)
Multiple bus routes (73, 390 stop directly outside)
Services: Full acute care hospital with 665 beds, 12 operating theatres, and the largest critical care unit in the NHS. Emergency department sees approximately 120,000 patients annually.
Important Safety Tips
General Safety
Keep your passport and travel documents secure
Use hotel safes for valuables
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas
Be cautious with electronics on the street: There has been an increase in phone snatching by thieves on bikes. Keep your phone secure when not in use and be especially alert when using it outdoors
Use a bag that zips closed and keep it in front of you or securely at your side
Never leave bags hanging on the back of chairs in restaurants or cafes - keep them on your lap or securely by your feet
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry conspicuously
Transportation Safety
London public transport is generally very safe
Stand right on escalators, walk left
Mind the gap between platform and train
Night buses and licensed black cabs are safe options for evening travel
Financial Safety
Notify your bank of international travel
Use contactless payment where possible
Keep some British pounds cash for emergencies
ATMs are widely available and generally safe to use
Medical Considerations
Travel insurance is highly recommended
Bring sufficient personal medications
UK has excellent healthcare, but costs apply for non-residents
Pharmacies (called "chemists") are widely available for minor needs
Communication
UK mobile coverage is excellent in London
WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, and public spaces
Download offline maps before exploring
Consider purchasing a UK SIM card for extended stays
Remember: London's emergency services are among the world's best, and help is always available when needed. Focus on enjoying your literary journey with confidence!