Emergency Services Guide · MartiniqueEmergency Services Guide in Martinique
Emergency numbers, response times, hospital systems, and trauma centers
• Emergency Number: 15 (SAMU - medical emergencies), 17 (Police), 18 (Fire Department)
• Ambulance Response: 10-15 minutes in Fort-de-France, 20-30 minutes in rural areas
• Hospital Coverage: Public healthcare system with CHU (University Hospital) in Fort-de-France and regional hospitals. Private clinics available in major cities
• Trauma Centers: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique (CHU) in Fort-de-France provides comprehensive emergency and trauma care
• Language Support: French is primary language; English limited in emergency services, translation services available through hospitals
Emergency Numbers
Universal
15
Police
17
Fire
18
Medical
15
Other Numbers
Response Times
Urban Areas
~12 min
Rural Areas
~25 min
SAMU response times average 10-15 minutes in Fort-de-France metropolitan area, extending to 20-30 minutes in rural and remote areas. Response times affected by island geography and road infrastructure.
Hospital System
Martinique operates a public healthcare system under French administration. The Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) in Fort-de-France is the primary tertiary care facility. Regional hospitals and health centers provide secondary care. Private clinics supplement public services in urban areas. Healthcare is funded through French social security system.
Major Trauma Centers
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique (CHU) in Fort-de-France is the only Level 1 trauma center and comprehensive emergency facility on the island. It provides 24/7 emergency department, trauma surgery, intensive care, and specialized services.
Specialized Care:
- Emergency Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
- Intensive Care Unit
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Pediatric Emergency Care
Language Support
French is the official language of Martinique. Emergency services operate primarily in French. English proficiency among emergency personnel is limited. International visitors should consider carrying translation cards or using translation apps.
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