This is updated information for the 2021-2022 winter season.
Be sure to download our Security Leaflet! Print and post on your fridge (or at least save to the home screen on your phone, tablet or PC).
The State of Yucatan provides 9-1-1 emergency calling service 24/7. The operators handle all types of emergencies.
In addition to multiple Spanish-speaking operators, the state also has one English/Spanish bilingual operator on duty at all times.
To access 9-1-1 services in English from a landline or from a Mexican, US or Canada cellphone, just dial 9-1-1. An operator will answer in Spanish – just ask for “ayuda en ingles” and you will be transferred to the bilingual operator. Please note that you may have to wait a few minutes for English-speaking assistance if the operator is on another emergency call. Do not hang up!
The state has put in a direct line to the bilingual 9-1-1 operator that can be accessed from any telephone. That number is 999-930-3245.
If you use this number, please note the following:
1) You will need to program in whatever numbers you need to dial to reach a Mexico landline from your US or Canadian-based phone. This will be the same pattern you use to call any other landline phone. For example, you might dial 011-521-999-930-3245 or +52-999-930-3245.
2) If the operator is already on a call, you will get a busy signal and need to call back.
The operators at the 9-1-1 Center are able to dispatch police, fire, or ambulance service, depending on the type of emergency. Staff working with the Red Cross centers in the state are located within the 9-1-1 center and coordinate services with the State’s ambulances. It is important that you identify the type of emergency assistance you require. If you are experiencing life threatening symptoms, such as a heart attack or severe bleeding they will then know the correct ambulance crews to dispatch.
NOTE: no matter what type of emergency, the local or state police are always dispatched and will probably arrive first; they are closer to you and know the area the best (especially more isolated areas of the beach).
USEFUL INFORMATION: be sure to visit our Spanish Phrases for Emergencies page and download the bilingual 9-1-1 Emergency Call Script.
- Green Angels — Car Trouble on the highway? Call this FREE service (all over Mexico). Info on the Two Expats Mexico Website.
Updated June 5, 2019