While true emergencies are rare, knowing who to call makes traveling in an unfamiliar city much easier. Los Angeles is well-prepared for visitors, with reliable emergency services and helpful local resources available around the clock. This guide covers the essential emergency contacts and useful numbers every traveler should save before exploring LA, so you can enjoy the city with confidence and know help is always within reach.

TL;DR

  • In the U.S., 911 is the universal number for life-threatening emergencies, while 988 provides 24/7 mental health and crisis support.
  • Los Angeles offers non-emergency help through 311 (city services), LAPD’s 1-877-ASK-LAPD line, the fire department, and the national Poison Help hotline.
  • Travelers can access world-class care via major hospitals’ ERs and numerous urgent care clinics for non-life-threatening issues.
  • Many countries maintain consulates in LA that assist with lost passports, serious incidents and emergency guidance for their citizens.
  • Key transport numbers include LAX lost & found and LA Metro’s customer support; rideshare issues are handled via in-app tools.

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Quick-Access Emergency Numbers

911 - Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Medical): In the United States, 911 is the universal emergency number for police, fire, or medical assistance. Dialing 911 quickly connects you to local dispatchers for any life-threatening or urgent crisis, day or night. Importantly, 911 calls are free and will work from any mobile phone, even if you don’t have an active plan or SIM card (as long as you have some signal). Use 911 only for true emergencies – situations like serious accidents, fires, medical collapses, or any danger to life or property that needs immediate response.

988 - Mental Health & Crisis Lifeline: Travelers can also dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers support for mental health emergencies or emotional crises. Counselors on the 988 line provide free, confidential 24/7 counseling for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, severe anxiety, or other mental health crises. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, dealing with jet-lagged depression, or aiding someone in emotional distress, 988 connects you to trained counselors who can help. It’s an invaluable resource for mental well-being while on the road.

311 - Non-Emergency City Services: For non-urgent matters and general city information, 311 is Los Angeles’s helpline for city services. Calling 311 (from local phones) or (213) 473-3231 (from outside L.A.) puts you in touch with the city’s customer service center. Use this for issues like noise complaints, trash pickup problems, reporting minor graffiti, or asking general questions about city resources. If it’s not an emergency but you need assistance or information from L.A. city departments, 311 is the number to call.

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In the U.S., dial 911 for any life-threatening emergency, day or night.

Local Police, Fire, and Medical

Beyond 911, Los Angeles has direct lines for local police and fire departments for situations that aren’t dire emergencies. These can be handy for reporting incidents or getting information without tying up the 911 lines:

  • Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD): If you need police help for a minor incident, lost property report, or a situation that isn’t actively dangerous, call 1-877-ASK-LAPD (1-877-275-5273). This is the LAPD’s 24/7 non-emergency dispatch number, designed to keep 911 free for true emergencies. For example, if you return to your parked rental car and find a window broken but no one is in danger, you would call this number to file a police report. The LAPD non-emergency line can assist with stolen items, noise complaints involving private property, or reporting suspicious activity that isn’t immediately threatening.

  • Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD): For questions related to fire safety, non-urgent fire code issues, or general information from the fire department, you can contact the LAFD’s public line at (213) 978-3800. While you would dial 911 to report an active fire or medical emergency, the LAFD’s non-emergency number might help with inquiries like scheduling a fire station tour or getting information on local fire restrictions. It’s also a point of contact if you need follow-up information after a fire incident has been handled.

  • Poison Control Hotline: In any case of poisoning, accidental ingestion of chemicals, or harmful exposure to toxins (which could happen with little ones exploring or even an adult mix-up of medications), immediately call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. This national poison control hotline operates 24/7 with medical experts who can advise you on what to do next. They will connect you to local poison control centers. Whether it’s a child swallowing something suspicious or an adult reacting badly to food or medicine, they will guide you through first aid steps and let you know if you should go to a hospital.

Keep in mind that if any situation does become life-threatening (for example, someone loses consciousness after a poisoning), you should call 911. However, for conscious, manageable situations, the poison control specialists can often assist over the phone.

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For medical issues that aren’t life-threatening, skip 911 and go directly to urgent care, it’s usually faster and much cheaper.

Hospitals, Urgent Care & Medical Help

Los Angeles is home to world-class hospitals and numerous urgent care clinics, so medical help is always nearby. As a traveler, it’s good to know a few key facilities in case you or a companion falls ill or gets injured:

Major Hospitals (24/7 Emergency Rooms):

  • UCLA Medical Center – Santa Monica: A well-regarded hospital on the Westside with a 24-hour emergency department. Good for emergencies in beach areas or West L.A.
  • Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (Beverly Grove): One of L.A.’s top hospitals, located near West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, known for excellent care. The ER here is centrally located for many popular tourist areas.
  • California Hospital Medical Center (Downtown): A major hospital in Downtown L.A., useful if you have an emergency while exploring the city center.
  • Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles (Sunset Blvd): A large hospital in Hollywood area (though note Kaiser facilities might primarily serve Kaiser insurance members, they will still stabilize anyone in an emergency).

All of the above have 24/7 emergency rooms equipped to handle serious injuries, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other critical conditions. Emergency Rooms (ERs) are for true emergencies – they prioritize life-threatening conditions, so be prepared for potential waits if your case is less severe.

Urgent Care Clinics (for non-emergencies):

For less critical health issues, urgent care centers are the traveler’s best friend. These clinics can treat things like minor fractures, sprains, ear infections, fevers, stomach bugs, cuts requiring stitches, or asthma flare-ups. They are faster and far more cost-effective than ERs for moderate issues. Some well-known urgent care options in Los Angeles include:

  • Exer Urgent Care: A network of urgent care clinics in L.A. that can handle many medical needs without an appointment.
  • Cedars-Sinai Urgent Care (various locations): Affiliated with Cedars-Sinai hospital, offering quality care for non-life-threatening issues.
  • Carbon Health: A modern clinic chain (with multiple L.A. locations) often catering to travelers and residents alike, providing urgent care and even travel-related health services.
  • Local Neighborhood Urgent Cares: Virtually every neighborhood in L.A. has an urgent care clinic. You can search “urgent care near me” on Google Maps to find the closest one when needed.

Urgent cares typically operate extended hours into the evenings and on weekends (though not usually 24/7). They often accept walk-in patients. If you’re sick with a bad cold, need a few stitches, or want a doctor’s advice for something not severe enough for the ER, urgent care is the way to go. They can also write prescriptions if you need medication.

Always carry your travel health insurance info (or know how to access it) and a photo ID. Bring your passport and insurance details when visiting any clinic or hospital – they will ask for them before treatment, even in urgent situations.

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Bring your passport and insurance information; clinics will ask for these before treatment.

Consulates & Embassies

While most foreign embassies are in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles hosts numerous consulates for countries around the world. Your country’s consulate can be a lifeline if you encounter serious issues like a lost/stolen passport, legal troubles, or if you need travel advice in an emergency. Consulates assist their citizens abroad and can liaise with local authorities or provide guidance in crises.

Here are a few major consulates in Los Angeles that travelers frequently might need, with their contact numbers:

  • Mexico – Consulate General in L.A.: Phone (213) 351-6800. (Mexico’s consulate can help Mexican nationals replace passports, deal with emergencies, or even assist with tourist information.)
  • Canada – Consulate General: Phone (213) 346-2700. (Canadian citizens can call for passport issues or emergency assistance.)
  • United Kingdom – Consulate General: Phone (310) 789-0031. (For UK nationals needing help – note, if you’re from London and lost your passport on Hollywood Boulevard, this is whom you’d call!)
  • France – Consulate General: Phone (310) 235-3200.
  • Germany – Consulate General: Phone (323) 930-2703.
  • Japan – Consulate General: Phone (213) 617-6700.
  • South Korea – Consulate General: Phone (213) 385-9300.
  • Australia – Consulate General: Phone (310) 229-2300 (Australian Consulate in Century City ).

When would you contact a consulate? Typical scenarios include losing your passport (they can issue emergency travel documents), needing a translator or legal referrals after an incident, or if you face a serious emergency (like an arrest or hospitalization) and want your government informed. Consular staff can’t bail you out of jail or pay your hotel bill, but they can provide vital guidance and sometimes liaison with local authorities on your behalf.

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Your consulate can help with lost passports, legal guidance, and emergency situations abroad; don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you need help.

Transportation Help & Lost Items

Navigating L.A. is easier with some key contacts in your pocket, especially for the airport and transit system:

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – Lost & Found: If you lose something at LAX (in a terminal, shuttle, etc.), contact the LAX Airport Police Lost & Found at (424) 646-5678 (that’s 424-646-LOST). Their office is at 5600 W. Century Blvd near the airport. It’s open weekdays during business hours. File a report as soon as you realize an item is missing. They catalogue lost items and if yours is turned in, you’ll have to describe it to claim it. Also, LAX General Information Infoline: (855) 463-5252 (dialing 855-GO36-LAX is a handy way to remember) can be called for general airport information, flight inquiries, or to be directed to specific airport services.

  • LA Metro (Buses & Trains) – Customer Support: Los Angeles’s public transit system (Metro) has an information line. You can dial 323-GO-METRO (323-466-3876) to get help with routes, schedules, or to report issues on buses and trains. This hotline is staffed by agents who can assist in multiple languages, and it’s useful if you need directions via public transit or have a concern while using the Metro. (Another number, (213) 626-4455, also reaches Metro info, but the 323-GoMetro is easier to remember.)

  • Uber & Lyft – Rideshare Assistance: Uber and Lyft are popular ways to get around L.A. While they don’t have public phone numbers for customer service, they do have in-app support. If you leave something in a rideshare, use the app’s “Lost Item” feature to contact the driver (Uber, for instance, will connect you by phone anonymously to the driver’s line). Remember, drivers’ personal contact info isn’t provided for privacy reasons, so you must go through the app to reach them. In case of any safety issue or dispute during a ride, both apps also offer help lines within the app. Always note your Uber/Lyft driver’s license plate and name when you get in, and double-check you have all your belongings when you exit.

If you’re driving yourself around California and something happens on the highway (like a breakdown or minor accident on a freeway), you can call the California Highway Patrol (CHP) helpline at 1-800-TELL-CHP (1-800-835-5247) for non-emergency assistance. The CHP line is a 24/7 statewide number for help with things like roadside hazards, accident reports, or to request roadside aid.

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At LAX, report lost items within 24 hours; the sooner you call Lost & Found (424-646-5678), the better the chance of recovery.

Utility & City Services

These numbers are useful for longer stays or in those rare “what if” scenarios that sometimes happen even on vacation:

  • Los Angeles Department of Water & Power (DWP): If you experience a power outage in your area, a water issue at your accommodation, or see a burst water main on the street, you can contact DWP at (800) 342-5397. This is mostly relevant if you’re staying in a rental home or Airbnb and the power goes out – you can call to report outages or get updates on restoration times. (Hotels will typically handle this for you.)

  • LA Tourism & Visitor Information: The LA Convention and Visitors Bureau runs a visitor info line at (213) 689-8822. Friendly travel counselors can answer questions about attractions, directions, or events. This is great if you want advice from a local expert on the fly. There are also physical Visitor Information Centers (e.g., in Hollywood and Downtown) – you can call this number to get information or hours for those centers too.

  • California Highway Patrol (CHP) – Non-Emergency Road Assistance: As mentioned earlier, 1-800-TELL-CHP (which is 1-800-835-5247) is a toll-free number to reach the CHP for non-emergency purposes across California. Travelers on road trips might use this if, say, you spot a dangerous object on the freeway, need to report a minor collision on a highway where local police aren’t readily available, or require the CHP’s guidance. (For real emergencies on highways, you would still call 911).

Also, remember that 311 (the city services line) can help with a lot of miscellaneous city issues. If, for example, you find a streetlight out on your block or need to report a stray animal or graffiti, 311 is your go-to. They can connect you to animal control, sanitation, and many other departments.

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311 can answer most basic city-service questions making it a one-stop resource for non-urgent needs.

Emergency Preparedness Tips

While hoping you never have to use any of these emergency numbers, it’s empowering to be prepared. Here are a few practical tips to ensure you stay safe and calm throughout your Los Angeles visit:

  • Save Key Numbers in Your Phone: Program the important contacts (911, 988, 311, your country’s consulate, etc.) into your phone before you need them. In a stressful moment, you don’t want to be searching for numbers. Having them saved (or written on a small card in your wallet) is reassuring.

  • Know Your Location: Always have a note of where you’re staying (hotel name, address, and phone) and keep a physical note in your pocket or bag. If your phone dies or you’re in a panic, showing a written hotel address to someone can help. Also, take a moment to note landmarks or cross-streets when you venture somewhere new. In an emergency, giving dispatchers a precise location is crucial.

  • Carry a Portable Charger: A small USB battery pack can be a lifesaver (literally) if your phone battery is low when you need to make an urgent call. Keep your phone charged and have backup power, because your phone is your primary navigation and communication tool. Los Angeles is huge, and you don’t want to be stranded with a dead phone.

  • Download Offline Maps: Using Google Maps or another map app in offline mode is a smart idea, especially if you won’t have constant data service. Download the L.A. area map when you have Wi-Fi. This way, even if you lose signal, you can navigate the city or find the nearest hospital, police station, or embassy. As travel experts advise, having offline maps means you can still find your way without internet.

  • Stay Aware of Local Safety Info: It’s unlikely, but if a citywide issue occurs (like an earthquake, major wildfire smoke, or other natural event), pay attention to local authorities’ instructions. L.A. has an emergency alert system that will broadcast to phones and media. If an earthquake hits, remember the drill: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. If there’s a rare wildfire-related alert or another event, follow any evacuation or safety instructions given by officials. For visitors, local news radio (e.g., KNX 1070 AM) and official Twitter accounts (like @ReadyLA, the city emergency management) provide reliable updates during such events.

  • Travel Smart at Night: Los Angeles is generally safe for a metropolis, but basic precautions go a long way. Stick to well-lit streets, especially downtown or in unfamiliar neighborhoods, and avoid walking alone late at night in quiet areas. If you’re unsure about an area, use rideshares or taxis. Let a friend or someone at your hotel know where you’re headed if you go out at night solo. Trust your instincts and stay alert – prepared travelers are usually the safest travelers.

  • Emergency Plan: Mentally note the nearest exit in buildings and theaters, just as a habit. If you’re at the beach, swim near lifeguard stations and heed any warning flags. Small things like this ensure you’re ready for anything, even though chances are you won’t ever need to act on it.
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Simply being prepared can reduce stress on your trip.

The Takeaway

Los Angeles is a safe, well-prepared city for travelers, and having a few emergency contacts saved is all you need to feel confident during your visit. With reliable 911 services, plenty of urgent care clinics, and accessible consulates, help is always close by if you need it. A little preparation goes a long way in making your trip smoother and more secure.

Most visitors never encounter any emergencies at all, but knowing exactly who to call provides peace of mind. It lets you focus on enjoying the city instead of worrying about what might go wrong. When you’re walking along Santa Monica Pier or exploring Hollywood’s trails, you can relax knowing you’re prepared and supported.

Traveling smart is the key to enjoying Los Angeles to the fullest. With the right information and contacts at hand, you can explore confidently, stay safe, and make the most of every moment in the City of Angels.

FAQ

Q1. What number do I call for emergencies in Los Angeles?
Dial 911 for any life-threatening emergency or urgent situation involving police, fire or medical assistance anywhere in Los Angeles.

Q2. What is 988 and when should I use it?
988 is the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, offering 24/7 confidential support for mental health emergencies, emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.

Q3. What’s the difference between 911 and 311 in LA?
911 is for immediate emergencies, while 311 is for non-urgent city services and information, such as noise complaints, graffiti or general city questions.

Q4. How do I reach the police for a non-emergency in Los Angeles?
Call LAPD’s non-emergency line at 1-877-ASK-LAPD (1-877-275-5273) for issues like stolen items, minor incidents or suspicious activity that isn’t an immediate threat.

Q5. What number should I call for poison or accidental ingestion?
Contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 for expert guidance on suspected poisoning or chemical ingestion, available 24/7.

Q6. Where can I get medical help that’s not an emergency?
Use urgent care clinics for non-life-threatening problems such as minor injuries or illnesses; search “urgent care near me” or visit well-known chains like Exer or Carbon Health.

Q7. How can my country’s consulate help me in LA?
Your consulate can assist with lost or stolen passports, serious legal or medical issues, and emergency advice, and can liaise with local authorities when needed.

Q8. What should I do if I lose something at LAX?
Contact LAX Airport Police Lost & Found at (424) 646-5678 as soon as possible and provide details of the missing item and where you last had it.

Q9. Is there a number for road or freeway issues in California?
For non-emergency highway matters, call the California Highway Patrol at 1-800-TELL-CHP (1-800-835-5247); still use 911 for urgent accidents.

Q10. How can I prepare for emergencies before exploring LA?
Save key numbers in your phone, note your hotel’s address, carry a portable charger, download offline maps and stay aware of local safety alerts and instructions.