VHF Channel 16
Coast Guard · Iceland
VHF Channel 16 is the Iceland Coast Guard emergency number. Verified 2026-01. Source: 112 Iceland. Works from mobile. Free to call. One-tap dial.
📞 About VHF Channel 16 — Coast Guard in Iceland
📍 Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
🗣️ Emergency Phrases in Iceland
Use these phrases to communicate in an emergency when language is a barrier. Tap the speaker to play pronunciation.
⚠️ When NOT to Call VHF Channel 16
- • Do not call 112 for non-urgent medical advice - call the medical helpline 1700
- • Do not call 112 for non-urgent police matters - visit the local police station
- • Do not make false emergency calls - punishable under Icelandic law
- • Do not call 112 for weather forecasts - use the Icelandic Met Office
- • Do not use emergency lines for road conditions - use the Icelandic Road Administration
✈️ Travel Notes — Iceland
Emergency response is fast in Reykjavík and urban areas. Response in remote highlands, glaciers, and coastal areas depends on ICE-SAR volunteer teams and may take hours. The 112 Iceland app is essential for GPS location sharing. Search and rescue is free of charge. Medical care is excellent.
🛡️ Traveling to Iceland? Protect Yourself
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We recommend securing travel insurance before your trip.
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What is VHF Channel 16 in Iceland?
VHF Channel 16 is the official Icelandic Coast Guard emergency number in Iceland. This number is operated by 112 Iceland and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Maritime and coastal rescue coordinated through 112. The Icelandic Coast Guard handles all maritime emergencies. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
When to Call VHF Channel 16
Call VHF Channel 16 immediately in situations involving coast guard-related emergencies in Iceland. When you call, clearly state:
- Your exact location (street address, landmark, GPS coordinates if possible)
- The nature of the emergency
- The number of people involved or injured
- Your name and callback number
Stay on the line until the operator tells you to hang up.
Technical Details — VHF Channel 16 in Iceland
Here are the key technical facts about calling VHF Channel 16 in Iceland:
- Works from mobile: Yes — you can call from any mobile phone.
- Works without SIM card: Yes — you can call even without a SIM card installed.
- Free to call: Yes — calling is completely free. No credit needed.
- Last verified: 2026-01
- Official source: 112 Iceland
How to Call VHF Channel 16 from Abroad
If you are calling VHF Channel 16 from outside Iceland, or from a foreign SIM card, dial the international format: +354 followed by VHF Channel 16 (omitting any leading zero). However, in a genuine emergency within Iceland, simply dialing VHF Channel 16 directly from any local or roaming SIM will connect you to the Icelandic Coast Guard. The universal number 112 is also active across Iceland and can be dialed from any phone.
All Emergency Numbers in Iceland
Besides VHF Channel 16 (Icelandic Coast Guard), Iceland has the following emergency services available: National Emergency Number: 112 · Icelandic Police (Lögreglan): 112 · Emergency Medical Service: 112 · Fire and Rescue Service: 112 · ICE-SAR Search and Rescue: 112 · Icelandic Coast Guard: 112. Save all these numbers before traveling to Iceland.
Data Source & Verification Policy
The number VHF Channel 16 is listed as the Icelandic Coast Guard emergency line for Iceland based on data from 112 Iceland. It was last verified in 2026-01. If this number has changed or is incorrect, please contact us immediately — accuracy of emergency contact information is our highest priority.
Frequently Asked Questions — VHF Channel 16 (Iceland)
What is VHF Channel 16 in Iceland? ▼
VHF Channel 16 is the Icelandic Coast Guard emergency number in Iceland. Maritime and coastal rescue coordinated through 112. The Icelandic Coast Guard handles all maritime emergencies. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
Can I call VHF Channel 16 without a SIM card in Iceland? ▼
Yes, you can dial VHF Channel 16 in Iceland without a SIM card on a GSM phone.
Is calling VHF Channel 16 free in Iceland? ▼
Yes, calling VHF Channel 16 is completely free in Iceland. No airtime credit needed.
Does VHF Channel 16 work from mobile in Iceland? ▼
Yes, VHF Channel 16 works from all mobile phones in Iceland.
Who do I reach when I call VHF Channel 16 in Iceland? ▼
Calling VHF Channel 16 in Iceland connects you to Icelandic Coast Guard (112 Iceland), available 24/7.
What is the source for VHF Channel 16 being the Coast Guard number in Iceland? ▼
Verified from 112 Iceland: https://www.112.is/. Last verified: 2026-01.
Does 112 work in the Icelandic highlands? ▼
112 works where there is mobile coverage. In remote highland areas, coverage may be limited. Hikers should carry satellite communication devices or personal locator beacons.
Can I call 112 from a mobile without a SIM card in Iceland? ▼
Yes. All mobile phones can dial 112 without a SIM card. Emergency calls are free.
Are emergency calls free in Iceland? ▼
Yes. All calls to 112 are free of charge from any phone.
Do emergency operators speak English in Iceland? ▼
Yes. 112 operators handle calls in Icelandic and English. English support is standard.
Is search and rescue free in Iceland? ▼
Yes. ICE-SAR search and rescue operations are free of charge. ICE-SAR is a volunteer organization. Do not hesitate to call 112 if you need rescue.
What is the non-urgent medical number in Iceland? ▼
1700 is the medical helpline for non-urgent medical advice. Available 24/7. Do not use this number for emergencies.