48.1 Staying Safe in Norway
Norway is generally well equipped for travellers, but its landscape can be demanding.
A short-looking hike can involve: steep terrain, unstable weather, snow, wind, limited mobile coverage, long distances from roads, difficult rescue conditions.
The safest approach is simple: plan before you go, check conditions, and know when to turn back.
48.2 Norway Emergency Numbers
Police — 112. Fire & Rescue — 110. Medical Emergency — 113. Out-of-hours medical service — 116 117. Police non-emergency — 02800. Road/traffic information — 175.
Norway's police confirm that 112 is the police emergency number, 110 is fire and rescue, and 113 is the medical emergency number.
48.3 When to Call 112
Call 112 when you need immediate police assistance.
Examples include: serious threats, dangerous criminal situations, major accidents requiring police, immediate danger to people.
For a serious emergency, explain: what happened? Where are you? Is anyone injured? Can you safely remain where you are?
48.4 When to Call 113
Call 113 for serious or life-threatening medical emergencies.
Examples: serious injury, unconscious person, severe breathing problems, major bleeding, suspected heart attack, life-threatening illness.
Anyone staying in Norway is entitled to necessary emergency medical care.
48.5 When to Call 116 117
116 117 is the Norwegian out-of-hours medical service (legevakt).
Use it when: you need medical assessment, your GP is unavailable, the problem cannot wait until normal GP hours, the situation is not immediately life-threatening.
For an immediate life-threatening emergency, use 113 instead.
48.6 Fire & Rescue — 110
Call 110 for: fire, serious smoke, fire-related emergencies, rescue situations handled by fire and rescue services.
If another emergency service is also required, the Norwegian emergency services can coordinate through the emergency-call system.
48.7 Road Information — 175
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration provides road and traffic information through 175.
You can use it for information about: dangerous road conditions, flooding, road obstructions, road closures, mountain passes, traffic conditions.
The Vegvesen Trafikk app and online traffic service also provide real-time information.
For an immediate life-threatening road incident, call the appropriate emergency service rather than waiting for 175.
48.8 Before a Hiking Trip
Check weather, check trail conditions, check daylight hours, check transport/parking, tell someone your plan, carry charged phone, download offline maps, carry water and food, carry suitable clothing, know your turnaround point.
48.9 The Norwegian Mountain Code
Norway's mountain safety tradition is based on the Fjellvettreglene.
The central principles include: plan your trip, adapt the trip to your ability, check weather and conditions, be prepared for changing conditions, choose safe routes, carry necessary equipment, use a map and compass/GPS, turn around in time, save energy for the return journey.
A beautiful destination is never more important than getting back safely.
48.10 Weather Can Change Quickly
Mountain weather can change much faster than conditions in nearby towns.
A forecast that looks comfortable at sea level does not guarantee safe conditions at: mountain summits, exposed ridges, fjord viewpoints, Arctic plateaus.
Always check conditions for the actual location.
48.11 When to Turn Back
Turn around if: weather deteriorates, visibility disappears, you are running out of daylight, someone becomes exhausted, the route becomes unsafe, you lose the trail, you are uncomfortable with the terrain.
Turning back is a successful safety decision — not a failed hike.
48.12 Hiking Alone
Solo hiking requires additional planning.
Tell someone: where you are going, which route you intend to take, when you expect to return.
For remote hikes, consider carrying an emergency communication device if mobile coverage is uncertain.
48.13 Mobile Coverage
Mobile reception is not guaranteed everywhere.
Potential weak-coverage areas include: deep valleys, mountains, remote islands, national parks, Arctic wilderness.
Download maps before leaving coverage.
48.14 Offline Maps
A good emergency phone setup should include: offline map, current location/GPS, emergency contacts, power bank, weather app, transport information.
Do not depend entirely on live internet access.
48.15 If You Become Lost
Stop. Do not continue walking randomly.
Then: 1. Check your map. 2. Check GPS. 3. Return toward the last known safe point if possible. 4. Stay warm. 5. Conserve battery. 6. Tell someone your position. 7. Call for help if necessary.
If the situation becomes dangerous, contact emergency services.
48.16 Giving Your Location
When calling emergency services, provide: name, phone number, exact location if known, GPS coordinates if available, nearby landmark, route name, number of people, injuries, weather conditions.
A screenshot of your map location can also be useful when communicating with others.
48.17 Hiking Near Cliffs
Norway has many dramatic cliff viewpoints.
Never: cross safety barriers, stand on unstable edges, climb rocks outside the route, take photos while moving backward, push yourself closer to an edge for a photograph.
Wind, wet rocks and loose ground can make cliff areas particularly dangerous.
48.18 Water & Fjord Safety
Fjords can look calm while having: cold water, strong currents, sudden wind, boat traffic, slippery rocks.
Do not enter cold fjord water without appropriate knowledge and equipment.
48.19 Kayaking Safety
Before kayaking: check weather, check wind, wear a suitable life jacket, understand local water conditions, tell someone your route, carry communication equipment.
Beginners should consider guided tours in exposed or remote areas.
48.20 Boat & Ferry Safety
Follow: crew instructions, safety announcements, marked passenger areas, vehicle-deck rules.
Do not enter restricted areas.
During rough weather, remain seated or hold secure handrails where appropriate.
48.21 Road Safety
Norwegian roads can include: narrow lanes, sharp bends, steep gradients, tunnels, ferries, mountain passes, wildlife, snow and ice.
Do not drive according to the conditions you wish you had. Drive according to the conditions actually present.
48.22 Winter Driving
Winter driving may involve: snow, ice, black ice, strong wind, snowploughs, reduced visibility, closed mountain roads.
Check current road conditions before departure.
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration provides current road and mountain-pass information through its traffic services.
48.23 Mountain Road Closures
Do not attempt to bypass: road barriers, closure signs, convoy restrictions, police instructions.
If a mountain road is closed, use the official alternative route.
48.24 Tunnels
Norway has thousands of kilometres of tunnels.
Remember: use headlights where required, maintain safe distance, follow speed limits, never stop unnecessarily, follow emergency instructions.
Some tunnels are long, steep or narrow.
48.25 Wildlife on Roads
Watch for: moose, reindeer, deer, sheep, goats.
Wildlife can suddenly enter the road.
Reduce speed in areas where warning signs indicate increased wildlife activity.
48.26 What to Do After a Road Accident
If safe: 1. Stop. 2. Protect the accident scene. 3. Help injured people without putting yourself in danger. 4. Call emergency services when required. 5. Exchange information. 6. Contact your rental company/insurance provider.
For serious incidents requiring immediate help, call 112, 110 or 113 depending on the situation. Norwegian emergency services can coordinate when several services are needed.
48.27 Car Breakdown
Move the vehicle to a safe location if possible.
Then: turn on hazard lights, wear a reflective vest if available, stay away from traffic, contact roadside assistance, contact the rental company, call emergency services if there is immediate danger.
For dangerous traffic situations, the Public Roads Administration can be contacted on 175.
48.28 Medical Care in Norway
For normal medical problems: GP (fastlege).
For urgent problems when your GP is unavailable: 116 117.
For serious emergencies: 113.
This distinction can help travellers choose the correct service.
48.29 Pharmacies
Norwegian pharmacies are called Apotek.
For minor problems, pharmacists can often provide guidance about appropriate over-the-counter products.
For serious symptoms, seek medical care.
48.30 Travellers from Outside the EU/EEA
Travellers from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland should pay particular attention to healthcare coverage.
Helsenorge states that tourists from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland generally do not have the same reimbursement rights under Norway's National Insurance Scheme and recommends travel insurance.
48.31 Travel Insurance
A good travel insurance policy can cover areas such as: medical expenses, emergency transport, cancellation, lost baggage, travel disruption, some outdoor activities.
Read the policy carefully.
Do not assume that every hiking, skiing, climbing or adventure activity is automatically covered.
48.32 Emergency Medical Information
Travellers should keep a simple note containing: name, date of birth, emergency contact, allergies, important medications, medical conditions if relevant, insurance details.
Keep a copy offline on your phone.
48.33 Prescription Medicines
If you use prescription medication: carry enough for the trip, keep medicines in original packaging, carry relevant documentation, check Norwegian import requirements before travelling.
Do not leave essential medication in checked luggage if it is needed during the journey.
48.34 Lost Passport
If your passport is lost: 1. Report the loss if required. 2. Contact your embassy/consulate. 3. Contact your travel insurer. 4. Keep copies of your identification documents.
A digital copy can help, but it is not a replacement for the original passport.
48.35 Lost Phone
If your phone is lost: lock the device remotely, contact your mobile operator, change important passwords, block payment cards if necessary, use your backup device if available.
Keep emergency contacts somewhere accessible offline.
48.36 Lost Bank Card
If a card is lost: freeze/block it immediately, contact your bank, use a backup payment method, report theft where appropriate.
Carrying one backup card separately can be useful.
48.37 Protecting Personal Belongings
Norway is generally considered a safe destination, but normal travel precautions still apply.
Do not leave passport, wallet, phone, camera, laptop unattended in public places or visible inside a vehicle.
48.38 Travel Scams
Be cautious of: fake payment requests, suspicious QR codes, fake accommodation messages, unofficial ticket websites, unexpected payment links, impersonation messages.
Use official websites and established booking platforms whenever possible.
48.39 Emergency Communication
If a major incident occurs: stay calm, move to safety, follow official instructions, avoid spreading unverified information, keep phone use focused on essential communication.
Norwegian police specifically advise people to stay calm, move to safety, follow authorities and use mobile networks only for necessary calls during major incidents.
48.40 Emergency SMS
Norway has an emergency SMS service for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired.
The phone number must be registered in advance to use the service.
Travellers who depend on this service should arrange registration before an emergency.
48.41 Fire Safety
In accommodation: identify the nearest exit, locate the fire alarm, know where stairs are, avoid blocking escape routes, follow evacuation instructions.
In cabins and camping areas, pay particular attention to local fire restrictions.
48.42 Outdoor Fire Safety
Norway has seasonal restrictions on fires in or near forests and other areas.
Local conditions and restrictions can apply.
Never assume that a campfire is allowed simply because you are camping legally.
Check current local fire regulations before lighting any fire.
48.43 Avalanche Safety
Winter travellers should take avalanche danger seriously.
High-risk environments include: steep mountain slopes, backcountry ski areas, snow-covered ridges, gullies.
Check official avalanche forecasts before entering avalanche terrain.
If you are inexperienced, use a qualified guide.
48.44 Snow & Cold Weather
Cold-weather travellers should carry: warm layers, waterproof outer layer, hat, gloves, suitable footwear, spare socks, headlamp.
For remote trips, carry enough food and emergency supplies to cope with delays.
48.45 Arctic Safety
Northern Norway and Svalbard require additional planning.
Potential hazards include: extreme cold, rapid weather changes, darkness, snowstorms, remote terrain, wildlife, limited services.
Svalbard requires particularly careful planning because of its Arctic environment and polar-bear risk.
48.46 Polar Bear Safety in Svalbard
Outside settlements, polar-bear safety is a serious consideration.
Travellers should: follow local regulations, use qualified guides where required, maintain appropriate distance, never approach wildlife, follow Governor of Svalbard guidance.
Do not treat Svalbard like an ordinary hiking destination.
48.47 Wildlife Safety
Wild animals should be observed rather than approached.
Keep a safe distance from: moose, reindeer, musk ox, seabirds, whales, seals, polar bears.
For musk oxen, follow local guidance and recommended minimum distances.
48.48 Dog Safety
Dogs are common in Norway, but do not assume every dog wants to be approached.
Ask the owner before touching an unfamiliar dog.
When hiking, follow local leash requirements.
48.49 Family Safety
Families should teach children: emergency numbers, their accommodation name, parent/guardian names, how to ask for help, what to do if separated.
Young children should not approach cliffs, rivers or animals without supervision.
48.50 Night Safety
During winter, darkness can arrive early.
Carry: headlamp, reflective clothing, charged phone, warm clothing.
This is especially important for hikers and roadside emergencies.
48.51 Emergency Numbers Card
POLICE — 112. FIRE — 110. AMBULANCE — 113. MEDICAL OUT-OF-HOURS — 116 117. POLICE NON-EMERGENCY — 02800. ROAD INFORMATION — 175.
48.52 What to Tell Emergency Services
WHAT: what happened? WHERE: exact location? WHO: how many people? INJURY: what injuries? CONDITION: are they conscious/breathing? ACCESS: can rescuers reach you? WEATHER: what are conditions like?
48.53 Emergency Backpack
First-aid kit, headlamp, extra food, water, power bank, emergency blanket, map, compass/GPS, extra clothing, whistle, personal medication.
The contents should match the length, season and remoteness of the trip.
48.54 Safety for Road Trips
Keep in the vehicle where appropriate: reflective vest, warning equipment, water, food, phone charger, warm clothing, ice/snow equipment in winter, first-aid supplies.
Rental companies may provide some equipment; confirm what is included.
48.55 Safety for Ferries
Before travelling by ferry: check departure status, arrive early when required, follow vehicle-deck instructions, take essential belongings with you, do not remain in restricted areas.
Weather can affect coastal transport.
48.56 Weather Emergency Strategy
If extreme weather is forecast, do not force the itinerary.
Consider: delaying departure, staying another night, changing route, using public transport, cancelling a hike, choosing an indoor activity.
Flexibility is one of the most useful safety tools in Norway.
48.57 Safety Apps & Websites
Useful official resources include: Vegvesen Trafikk for road information, official weather forecasts, official avalanche information, official transport apps, local tourism information, emergency services.
Use official information rather than relying solely on social-media posts.
48.61 Emergency Travel Checklist
Phone charged, power bank, weather checked, route downloaded, emergency numbers saved, water packed, suitable clothing, travel insurance accessible, someone knows your plan.
48.62 The Most Important Safety Rule
Do not allow an itinerary to control your decisions.
- If conditions become unsafe: change the itinerary.
- If a road closes: take another route.
- If weather deteriorates: turn back.
- If someone is injured: stop sightseeing and seek help.
48.63 Final Takeaway
Norway rewards prepared travellers.
The most important safety habits are simple: check the weather, plan your route, carry the right equipment, respect the mountains and ocean, know the emergency numbers, have travel insurance, know when to turn back.
For emergencies, remember: 112 — Police. 110 — Fire & Rescue. 113 — Medical Emergency. 116 117 — Out-of-hours medical service. 175 — Road/traffic information.
Official Norwegian authorities should always be treated as the final source for current emergency procedures, road conditions and healthcare information.