Hangzhou

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Emergency Contacts

Sections

Emergency Contacts in Hangzhou, China

1. General Emergency Numbers

China has a unified emergency number system, and the following are the key numbers to remember:

  • Police (Public Security Bureau): 110
  • Fire Department: 119
  • Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 120
  • Traffic Accidents: 122

These numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card. Operators typically speak Mandarin, so having a basic understanding of Mandarin or asking for help from a local who speaks the language can be beneficial.

2. Police Services (110)

  • Purpose: For reporting crimes, theft, assault, or any situation requiring police intervention.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 110 and briefly explain the situation.
    2. Provide your location (use landmarks or nearby addresses if youโ€™re unsure of the exact address).
    3. Stay on the line until the operator confirms they have dispatched help.
  • Cost: Free of charge.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Police officers in Hangzhou are generally helpful, but English proficiency may be limited. If you donโ€™t speak Mandarin, try using a translation app or ask a bilingual person for assistance.
    • Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, as police may ask for identification.

3. Fire Services (119)

  • Purpose: For reporting fires, gas leaks, or other fire-related emergencies.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 119 and state the nature of the emergency.
    2. Provide your location as accurately as possible.
    3. Follow any instructions given by the operator.
  • Cost: Free of charge.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Fire safety standards in Hangzhou are generally high, especially in modern buildings. However, older structures may have limited fire safety measures.
    • Familiarize yourself with fire exits and evacuation routes in your accommodation or workplace.

4. Medical Emergency Services (120)

  • Purpose: For medical emergencies requiring an ambulance or immediate medical attention.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 120 and describe the medical emergency.
    2. Provide your location and any relevant details about the patient (e.g., age, symptoms, known medical conditions).
    3. Follow the operatorโ€™s instructions and wait for the ambulance to arrive.
  • Cost:
    • Ambulance services are not free. Costs typically range from ยฅ50 to ยฅ200 (approx. $7โ€“$30 USD), depending on the distance and services provided.
    • Payment is usually required at the hospital for treatment. Ensure you have health insurance or sufficient funds to cover medical expenses.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Major hospitals in Hangzhou, such as Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Zhejiang University First Affiliated Hospital, have international departments with English-speaking staff.
    • Carry a list of any medications you take and your medical history in Chinese (if possible) to facilitate communication.

5. Traffic Accidents (122)

  • Purpose: For reporting traffic accidents or requesting assistance with road-related emergencies.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 122 and explain the situation.
    2. Provide your location and details about the accident (e.g., number of vehicles involved, injuries, etc.).
    3. Follow the operatorโ€™s instructions and wait for traffic police to arrive.
  • Cost: Free of charge.
  • Local Considerations:
    • If you are involved in a minor accident, it is common to move vehicles to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic while waiting for the police.
    • Always carry your driverโ€™s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents if you are driving.

6. Other Essential Services

  • Tourist Assistance Hotline: 12301
    • Purpose: For general inquiries, travel assistance, and reporting issues related to tourism.
    • Language Support: English-speaking operators are available.
    • Cost: Free of charge.
    • Hours: 24/7.
  • Electricity Emergency Hotline: 95598
    • Purpose: For reporting power outages or electrical emergencies.
    • Cost: Free of charge.
  • Water Supply Emergency Hotline: 87826789 (local Hangzhou number)
    • Purpose: For reporting water supply issues or emergencies.
    • Cost: Free of charge.
  • Gas Emergency Hotline: 967266
    • Purpose: For reporting gas leaks or related emergencies.
    • Cost: Free of charge.

Tips for Effective Communication in Emergencies

  1. Learn Basic Mandarin Phrases:
    • Knowing a few key phrases like โ€œHelp!โ€ (ๆ•‘ๅ‘ฝ! Jiรนmรฌng!) or โ€œI need a doctorโ€ (ๆˆ‘้œ€่ฆๅŒป็”Ÿ Wว’ xลซyร o yฤซshฤ“ng) can be very helpful.
  2. Use Translation Apps:
    • Apps like Google Translate or Pleco can assist in bridging language gaps. Many apps also have voice translation features.
  3. Carry a Written Note:
    • Write down your address in Chinese characters and keep it with you. This can be shown to emergency responders or taxi drivers.
  4. Stay Calm and Patient:
    • Emergency responders in Hangzhou are professional, but language barriers may cause slight delays. Remaining calm and cooperative will help resolve the situation faster.
  5. Involve Locals:
    • If youโ€™re struggling to communicate, ask a nearby local for help. Many younger people in Hangzhou speak some English and are often willing to assist.

Additional Resources

  • Embassy or Consulate Assistance:
    • If you are a foreign national, your countryโ€™s embassy or consulate can provide assistance in emergencies. Keep their contact information handy.
    • Example: U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai (covers Hangzhou)
      • Phone: +86-21-8011-2200
      • Emergency After-Hours: +86-10-8531-4000
  • International SOS: +86-10-6462-9100
    • A global medical and travel security services company that provides 24/7 assistance.

By keeping this information accessible and following the outlined procedures, you can navigate emergencies in Hangzhou with confidence. Stay safe and prepared!