When traveling to Israel or any Hebrew-speaking region, it’s crucial to be prepared for various situations, including emergencies. Knowing basic safety and emergency phrases in Hebrew can help you navigate unforeseen circumstances and communicate effectively with local authorities, medical personnel, and bystanders. Here are some essential Hebrew phrases for safety and emergencies, complete with their definitions and example sentences.
עזרה (Ezrah) – Help
This word is used to call for assistance in urgent situations.
!תעזרו לי, אני צריך עזרה
(Please help me, I need help!)
משטרה (Mishtarah) – Police
The term for law enforcement officials in Israel; you may need to call them in case of theft or any other crime.
אני צריך את המשטרה, הרכב שלי נגנב.
(I need the police, my car has been stolen.)
חירום (Kheerum) – Emergency
A general term used for any serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action.
זה מצב חירום, אנא קרא לאמבולנס.
(This is an emergency, please call an ambulance.)
אני זקוק לרופא (Ani za’kuk l’rofe) – I need a doctor
Use this phrase if you require medical attention.
יש לי כאבים חזקים, אני זקוק לרופא.
(I have severe pain, I need a doctor.)
אשפוז (Ispuz) – Hospitalization
Refers to the act of admitting someone into a hospital.
המטופל זקוק לאשפוז מיידי.
(The patient requires immediate hospitalization.)
תאונה (Te’oonah) – Accident
Used when referring to an unforeseen event that causes damage or injury.
הייתה תאונה כאן, קרא למד”א.
(There was an accident here, call Magen David Adom.)
איפה השירותים? (Eyfo ha’sherutim?) – Where is the restroom?
It’s important to know how to ask for the location of the restroom, especially in emergencies.
סליחה, איפה השירותים?
(Excuse me, where is the restroom?)
אש (Esh) – Fire
Used to alert about a fire hazard or when you see fire.
יש אש בבניין, תזעקו את מכבי האש!
(There’s a fire in the building, call the firefighters!)
אני לא מרגיש טוב (Ani lo margish tov) – I don’t feel well
Express this if you’re feeling unwell and might need medical attention.
אני לא מרגיש טוב, אולי צריך לקרוא לאמבולנס.
(I don’t feel well, perhaps we should call an ambulance.)
גנב (Ganav) – Thief
Shout this to alert others if you witness a theft.
תפסו את הגנב, הוא לקח את התיק שלי!
(Catch the thief, he took my bag!)
דרך איבוד (Derekh ibud) – Lost way
Use this phrase when you are lost and need directions.
אני בדרך איבוד, אתה יודע איך להגיע לתחנת הרכבת?
(I’m lost, do you know how to get to the train station?)
Learning these Hebrew phrases can substantially increase your safety and provide peace of mind when navigating unfamiliar areas. Remember, in any emergency, staying calm and communicating clearly is key. With these phrases at your disposal, you’ll be better equipped to handle unexpected situations.