For general emergencies requiring police assistance, such as theft, minor traffic accidents, drug-related crimes, or acts of violence, dial 105, Peru’s general emergency number, which is similar to 911 in the USA. This number puts you through to a nationwide dispatch service. You can also dial 911 in Peru to connect to this emergency service.

In case of a medical emergency, call the Sistema de Atención Médica Móvil de Urgencia (SAMU), a free service provided by the Peruvian Ministry of Health, at 106. Do note, however, that the definition of emergency in Peru strictly applies to potentially life-threatening situations.

If SAMU does not operate in the area where you need emergency help, you can also reach emergency medical assistance through both police (105) and fire brigade (116), but the quality of service varies greatly. Fire brigade units generally come better equipped to deal with medical emergencies.

For fires and emergencies described above, the central emergency number 116 puts you through to the Cuerpo General de Bomberos Voluntarios Del Perú, Peru’s national (and voluntary) fire brigade. They respond to fires, traffic and other accidents, and smaller medical emergencies.