VHF Channel 16
Coast Guard · Uruguay
VHF Channel 16 is the Uruguay Coast Guard emergency number. Verified 2026-01. Source: Ministerio del Interior. Works from mobile. Free to call. One-tap dial.
📞 About VHF Channel 16 — Coast Guard in Uruguay
📍 Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
🗣️ Emergency Phrases in Uruguay
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 911 for minor ailments
- • Do not call 911 for non-urgent police matters
- • Do not make false emergency calls - punishable under Uruguayan law
- • Do not call 911 for minor ailments - visit a local clinic or hospital
- • Do not make false emergency calls
- • Do not use emergency lines for road conditions or traffic information
- • Do not call 911 for power outages - contact UTE (electricity provider)
- • Do not call 911 for non-urgent police matters - visit the local police station
✈️ Travel Notes — Uruguay
Emergency response is fast and reliable in Montevideo and major cities. Response in rural areas may be slower. Uruguay has a well-developed public health system. Private hospitals in Montevideo offer excellent emergency care. Public emergency treatment is available to everyone.
🛡️ Traveling to Uruguay? Protect Yourself
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What is VHF Channel 16 in Uruguay?
VHF Channel 16 is the official Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval) emergency number in Uruguay. This number is operated by Ministerio del Interior and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Maritime emergencies via 911. Also VHF Channel 16.
When to Call VHF Channel 16
Call VHF Channel 16 immediately in situations involving coast guard-related emergencies in Uruguay. 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 Uruguay
Here are the key technical facts about calling VHF Channel 16 in Uruguay:
- 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: Ministerio del Interior
How to Call VHF Channel 16 from Abroad
If you are calling VHF Channel 16 from outside Uruguay, or from a foreign SIM card, dial the international format: +598 followed by VHF Channel 16 (omitting any leading zero). However, in a genuine emergency within Uruguay, simply dialing VHF Channel 16 directly from any local or roaming SIM will connect you to the Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval). The universal number 112 is also active across Uruguay and can be dialed from any phone.
All Emergency Numbers in Uruguay
Besides VHF Channel 16 (Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval)), Uruguay has the following emergency services available: National Unified Emergency Number: 911 · National Police: 911 · Emergency Medical Service: 911 · Fire and Rescue (Bomberos): 911 · Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval): 911. Save all these numbers before traveling to Uruguay.
Data Source & Verification Policy
The number VHF Channel 16 is listed as the Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval) emergency line for Uruguay based on data from Ministerio del Interior. 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 (Uruguay)
What is VHF Channel 16 in Uruguay? ▼
VHF Channel 16 is the Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval) emergency number in Uruguay. Maritime emergencies via 911. Also VHF Channel 16.
Can I call VHF Channel 16 without a SIM card in Uruguay? ▼
Yes, you can dial VHF Channel 16 in Uruguay without a SIM card on a GSM phone.
Is calling VHF Channel 16 free in Uruguay? ▼
Yes, calling VHF Channel 16 is completely free in Uruguay. No airtime credit needed.
Does VHF Channel 16 work from mobile in Uruguay? ▼
Yes, VHF Channel 16 works from all mobile phones in Uruguay.
Who do I reach when I call VHF Channel 16 in Uruguay? ▼
Calling VHF Channel 16 in Uruguay connects you to Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval) (Ministerio del Interior), available 24/7.
What is the source for VHF Channel 16 being the Coast Guard number in Uruguay? ▼
Verified from Ministerio del Interior: https://www.minterior.gub.uy/index.php/911. Last verified: 2026-01.
Does 911 work everywhere in Uruguay? ▼
Yes. 911 is the national unified emergency number available throughout Uruguay. It connects to police, ambulance, fire, and coast guard.
Can I call 911 from a mobile phone without credit in Uruguay? ▼
Yes. 911 calls are free and can be made without airtime credit from any mobile phone.
Are emergency calls free in Uruguay? ▼
Yes. All calls to 911 are free of charge from any phone.
How do I contact the Coast Guard in Uruguay? ▼
Call 911 for maritime emergencies. The Prefectura Nacional Naval is dispatched through 911. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16 for vessels at sea.
Is public emergency medical care free in Uruguay? ▼
Yes. Uruguay has a public health system (ASSE) that provides free emergency treatment to everyone, including tourists. Private hospitals and mutualistas also provide emergency care.