Emergencies are easier to handle if you prepare before one happens. Save the numbers below, know where your nearest emergency department is, and keep a few documents to hand.

The numbers

  • Police, fire and ambulance: 999, or 112 from any mobile.
  • Kenya Red Cross emergency line: 1199, toll free.
  • Gender-based violence helpline: 1195, toll free, 24 hours.
  • Childline Kenya: 116, for children at risk.
  • Kenya Power (fallen lines, power faults): 97771.

Also save:

  • A private ambulance service - many private hospitals and companies run their own, and some insurers include ambulance cover.
  • Your building’s security or response company.
  • Your embassy, if you are a foreign national.

Medical emergencies

  1. Call an ambulance, or if it is faster and safe, drive or take a taxi to the nearest emergency department. In Nairobi traffic, the closest capable hospital is often the best choice.
  2. Take your ID, insurance or SHA details, and a list of medicines and allergies.
  3. Private hospitals stabilise emergencies, but may ask for a deposit or insurance approval to admit you.

See Nairobi’s main hospitals.

Fire

Get out and call 999. Know the fire exits in your building, keep a fire extinguisher and blanket in the kitchen, and never block the exits with padlocked grilles.

Crime

Gender-based violence

Call 1195 for confidential support, or go to a hospital. Survivors of sexual violence should seek medical care within 72 hours for emergency treatment. Police stations have gender desks.

Road accidents

Move to safety if you can, call for help, and don’t move injured people unless they are in danger. Take photos and details, and report to the police. See Car insurance.

Be ready

  • Save the numbers now.
  • Know your nearest emergency department from home and work.
  • Keep copies of your ID, passport and insurance on your phone and in the cloud.
  • Tell someone your plans when travelling outside the city.

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