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The numbers that matter
Iceland has one universal emergency number: 112. It works from any phone (mobile, satellite, landline), with or without SIM. The 112 service dispatches police, ambulance, fire, and search-and-rescue. Operators speak English.
SafeTravel (safetravel.is) is a free service where you register your trip plan. In an emergency, rescuers know your route and contacts. Search-and-rescue teams (ICE-SAR) are volunteer-based — they take donations, not payments, and will rescue you even if you're not insured. Don't refuse rescue out of cost fear.
FAQ
Will 112 work without a SIM?
Yes — Iceland requires 112 to work on any connected phone, even emergency-only. Your foreign phone can dial 112 even without a local card.
Hospitals in rural areas?
Reykjavík has the major hospital (Landspítali). Smaller health centres operate in Akureyri, Ísafjörður, Höfn, Selfoss. For serious issues, medevac helicopter is dispatched. Helicopter rescue is free in emergencies (post-2014 law).
Embassy contacts?
Most embassies are in Reykjavík. US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, China all have embassies. Smaller nations may have honorary consuls. Your country's travel advisory page will list the local contact.