Critical Emergency Numbers for Samothraki
When visiting Samothraki, one of Greece's most remote and rugged islands, having immediate access to emergency contacts can be lifesaving. The island's isolated location in the North Aegean, challenging terrain, and limited medical facilities make emergency preparedness absolutely critical for every visitor.
Universal Emergency Access
112 - European Emergency NumberThis is the most important number to remember. Available 24/7, this single number connects you to all emergency services - police, ambulance, fire department, and coast guard. Calls are free from any phone (landline, payphone, or mobile) and work throughout Europe.
Greek National Emergency Numbers
100 - Police (Hellenic Police)Direct line to Greek police for all criminal emergencies, accidents, and security incidents.
166 - Ambulance and Medical EmergencyNational ambulance service and medical emergency response. Critical for health emergencies requiring immediate medical attention.
199 - Fire DepartmentFire service emergency line for fires, explosions, and related rescue operations.
108 - Coast GuardMaritime emergency service for sea rescues, boat accidents, and coastal emergencies. Particularly important for Samothraki due to its island location.
171 - Tourist PoliceSpecialized police service for tourists, providing assistance with tourist-related problems, theft, and general information needs.
Local Samothraki Emergency Services
Samothraki Police Station
Primary Contact: +30 25510 41203Secondary Line: +30 25510 41303
- Address: 68002 Samothraki, Evros, Greece
- Operates under Alexandroupoli Police Headquarters
- Handles all local police matters, emergencies, and security issues on the island
Medical Emergency Contacts
Archaeological Museum of Samothraki: +30 25510 41474While primarily a museum contact, this number can provide assistance during emergencies at the archaeological site.
General University Hospital of Alexandroupolis: +30 25510 75467The nearest major hospital facility. Serious medical emergencies from Samothraki typically require transport to this mainland hospital.
Regional Emergency Coordination
Eastern Macedonia & Thrace Regional Health Authority
Email: drousaki@4ype.grCoordinates healthcare emergencies for the region including Samothraki. Contact for serious medical emergencies requiring regional coordination.
Hellenic Police Headquarters
Contact: +30 213-1520000Email: kepik@astynomia.grNational police coordination center for major incidents requiring national-level response.
Specialized Emergency Helplines
Human Trafficking Resource Line
Number: 1109 (24/7)
- Available in multiple languages
- When you call, you'll hear a message in Greek then English
- Press 2 to speak to a live specialist
- Operators available in several languages
Violence Against Women SOS Helpline
Number: 15900
- Available in English and Greek
- 24/7 support service
- Confidential assistance for domestic violence situations
Primary Healthcare Emergency Booking
Number: 14900
- For urgent medical appointments
- Access to primary healthcare facilities
- Non-emergency medical coordination
Maritime Emergency Services
Coast Guard Emergency Coordination
Given Samothraki's island location, maritime emergencies are a real concern:
108 - National Coast Guard Emergency
- Sea rescue operations
- Boat emergencies and accidents
- Maritime medical evacuations
- Coastal emergency response
Emergency Services for EU Citizens
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) Support
For EU citizens with valid EHIC cards, emergency medical treatment is available through the Greek national health system. In emergencies, call 166 for ambulance services.
Embassy Emergency Contacts
For serious emergencies requiring consular assistance, contact your embassy in Athens. Major embassies maintain 24/7 emergency lines for their citizens.
News and Information Resources for Samothraki
Staying informed about current conditions on Samothraki is crucial for safety and travel planning. These resources provide real-time updates on weather, transportation, and local events.
Local News and Information Sources
Samothraki Travel Facebook Page
- Facebook: @ZoumeSamothraki
- 1,200+ active community members
- Real-time updates on ferry schedules, weather conditions, and local events
- Community-driven incident reporting and safety alerts
- Essential for current island conditions and travel disruptions
Social Media Information Networks
Instagram Real-Time Updates:
- @insamothraki - 4,400+ followers with regular island updates
- @samothrakidotcom - Official island website account with current information
- Samothraki Location Tag - Real-time visitor posts showing current conditions
Regional News Sources
North Aegean News Coverage:Local newspapers and news websites covering the North Aegean region often report on Samothraki developments, including weather emergencies, ferry disruptions, and safety incidents.
Greek National News:Major Greek news outlets (in Greek) frequently cover significant events affecting the islands, including weather warnings and transportation disruptions.
Weather and Maritime Information
Greek National Meteorological Service
- Official weather warnings and forecasts
- Marine weather conditions affecting ferry services
- Emergency weather alerts for the North Aegean region
Port Authority AnnouncementsFerry schedule changes, cancellations, and maritime safety warnings are typically announced through:
- Port authority offices in Alexandroupolis
- Ferry company websites and social media
- Local community Facebook groups
Emergency Broadcasting
Emergency Alert Systems:During severe weather or emergency situations, information is disseminated through:
- Greek national emergency broadcasting system
- Local radio stations serving the North Aegean
- Municipal announcement systems
- Police and coast guard bulletins
Community Information Networks
Local Community Groups:Facebook groups and WhatsApp communities among residents often share:
- Road conditions and accessibility
- Power outages and utility issues
- Emergency situations requiring community response
- Mutual aid during challenging weather
Travel Disruption Information
Ferry Service Updates:
- Zante Ferries social media - Real-time schedule changes
- Port authority announcements - Service cancellations and delays
- Local Facebook groups - Community-reported travel conditions
Transportation Alerts:
- Road closures due to weather or landslides
- Trail closures for hiking safety
- Beach access restrictions during storms
Critical Safety Considerations for Samothraki
Medical Emergency Limitations
- Limited medical facilities on the island
- Serious cases require evacuation to Alexandroupolis
- Emergency helicopter evacuation may be necessary in severe weather
- Ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation
Weather-Related Emergencies
Samothraki experiences sudden weather changes that can create dangerous conditions:
- Flash floods in gorges and near waterfalls
- Sudden storms affecting ferry services
- High winds creating dangerous hiking conditions
Hiking and Waterfall Safety Emergencies
The island's famous waterfalls and hiking trails pose specific risks:
- Slippery rocks near waterfalls
- Flash flood risks in gorges
- Getting lost on unmarked trails
- Rockfall hazards in steep areas
Emergency Preparation Guidelines
Before Traveling to Samothraki
- Save all emergency numbers in your phone contacts
- Download offline maps - cell coverage can be limited
- Inform someone of your travel itinerary
- Check weather forecasts and sea conditions
- Verify ferry schedules - missing the last ferry can strand you
- Follow local Facebook groups for real-time conditions
- Monitor social media for community updates
Information Monitoring During Your Stay
- Check social media daily for weather and safety updates
- Follow local Facebook groups for community alerts
- Monitor ferry company announcements for schedule changes
- Stay aware of weather warnings from official sources
Emergency Kit Essentials
- First aid supplies
- Emergency water and food
- Whistle for signaling help
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Emergency blanket
- Fully charged power bank
- Offline maps and emergency contact list
Communication During Emergencies
- Cell phone coverage varies across the island
- Higher elevations generally have better signal
- Consider satellite communication devices for remote hiking
- Know the location of the nearest police station and medical facility
Important Emergency Protocols
What to Do in a Medical Emergency
- Call 112 or 166 immediately
- Provide your exact location (use GPS coordinates if possible)
- Stay calm and follow dispatcher instructions
- Do not move seriously injured persons unless in immediate danger
- Be prepared for possible evacuation to mainland hospital
What to Do in a Police Emergency
- Call 112 or 100
- For tourist-specific issues, call 171
- Local police: +30 25510 41203
- Provide clear details of the situation
- Stay safe and follow police instructions
Maritime Emergency Procedures
- Call 108 immediately
- Provide vessel location and number of people involved
- Stay with your vessel if safely possible
- Use emergency signaling devices
- Follow Coast Guard instructions
Emergency Contact Summary Card
Print and carry this emergency reference:
SAMOTHRAKI EMERGENCY CONTACTS
--------------------------------
Universal Emergency: 112
Police: 100
Ambulance: 166
Fire: 199
Coast Guard: 108
Tourist Police: 171
Local Police: +30 25510 41203
Alexandroupolis Hospital: +30 25510 75467
Human Trafficking: 1109
Violence Against Women: 15900
Healthcare Booking: 14900
INFORMATION SOURCES:
Facebook: @ZoumeSamothraki
Instagram: @samothrakidotcom
Emergency Updates: Monitor social media daily
Conclusion
Samothraki's remote beauty comes with inherent risks that require serious preparation and constant awareness of current conditions. These emergency contacts are your lifeline in critical situations, while the information resources help you stay informed about changing conditions that could affect your safety.
The island's challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and distance from major medical facilities mean that both emergency preparedness and situational awareness aren't optional - they're essential. Social media and community networks provide invaluable real-time information that can prevent emergencies before they occur.
Always remember that 112 is your primary emergency number, connecting you to all services. Save these numbers before you travel, follow local information sources, inform others of your plans, and never underestimate the importance of staying informed and prepared when visiting this magnificent but challenging Greek island.
Stay safe, stay informed, be prepared, and respect the power of Samothraki's wild nature.
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