196: it's the marine emergency number

Who to contact in case of an emergency at sea?

• You're on the shore facing an emergency at sea : call 196, a free national emergency number dedicated to rescue at sea.
  This number is used to alert the nearest Regional Marine Surveillance and Rescue Operational Center (Cross) to the call. Placed under the operational authority of the maritime prefects, the Cross are part of the interregional sea directorates (metropolis) and the sea directorates (Overseas), also responsible for conducting the maritime policies of sustainable development, resource management and regularization of activities at sea.
• You're on a boat : you must use your VHF (very high frequency) radio, channel 16.
  You are put directly in contact with the Cross, which can facilitate their search.
  If the mobile phone network is available, you can call 196 with a mobile phone, but you will not be able to communicate directly with the emergency services or other nearby ships that might be assisting you.
• You are on the coast, facing an emergency on land (on the beach, on the rocks...) : call 18, emergency number to contact the fire brigade or 112, european emergency number. The call is free from a landline or mobile phone.