Phosgene poses a great threat to public security and human health due to its lethal toxicity. Fluorescent probes have become powerful tools in the detection of phosgene owing to their good selectivity, high sensitivity, real-time monitoring, low cost and simple operation. Firstly, the research progress of small organic fluorescent probes for the recognition of phosgene in recent years is reviewed. Then, the design idea and recognition mechanism of different kinds of probes are summarized according to the recognition groups of fluorescent molecules. Finally, the future development of fluorescent probes for the detection of phosgene and their potential challenges are prospected.