Suzhou

Emergency Services Overview in Suzhou, China

Suzhou is a modern city with well-established emergency services. However, as a visitor or immigrant, it’s important to understand how to access these services, the procedures involved, and any cultural nuances that may affect your experience.

Key Emergency Numbers in Suzhou

• Police (Public Security Bureau): 110
• Fire Department: 119
• Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 120
• Traffic Accidents: 122
• Foreign Affairs Police (for non-Chinese speakers): +86 512 6522 0110 (Suzhou Public Security Bureau)

These numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card.

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1. Police Services

The police in Suzhou are responsible for maintaining public order, handling crimes, and assisting in emergencies. They are generally professional and responsive.

When to Call the Police (110):

• Reporting a crime (theft, assault, etc.)
• Personal safety concerns
• Lost or stolen property
• Assistance in disputes or emergencies

Procedure:

1. Dial 110 and explain your situation. If you don’t speak Chinese, say “English” (or your language) and wait for an English-speaking operator. However, English-speaking operators may not always be available.
2. Provide your location and a brief description of the issue.
3. Stay on the line until the operator confirms help is on the way.

Cultural Considerations:

• Police officers may not always speak English, so having a translation app or a Chinese-speaking friend can be helpful.
• Always carry your passport or a copy of it, as police may ask for identification.
• Be respectful and cooperative; avoid raising your voice or showing frustration.

Costs:

Police services are free of charge.

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2. Fire Services

The Suzhou Fire Department is well-equipped to handle fire emergencies and related incidents.

When to Call the Fire Department (119):

• Fires in buildings, vehicles, or public spaces
• Gas leaks or chemical spills
• Rescue situations (e.g., being trapped in an elevator)

Procedure:

1. Dial 119 and describe the emergency. If you don’t speak Chinese, try to communicate the word “fire” or use a translation app.
2. Provide your exact location, including landmarks or nearby streets.
3. Evacuate the area if it is safe to do so and wait for the fire department to arrive.

Cultural Considerations:

• Fire safety regulations in older buildings may not be as stringent as in newer ones. Familiarize yourself with fire exits and safety equipment in your residence or workplace.
• Avoid using elevators during a fire.

Costs:

Firefighting services are free of charge.

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3. Medical Emergency Services

Suzhou has a robust healthcare system, with public and private hospitals offering emergency medical care. Ambulance services are available but may not be as fast as in some Western countries.

When to Call an Ambulance (120):

• Severe injuries or medical conditions (e.g., heart attack, stroke, severe bleeding)
• Unconsciousness or difficulty breathing
• Any life-threatening situation

Procedure:

1. Dial 120 and explain the medical emergency. If you don’t speak Chinese, say “English” and wait for an English-speaking operator (availability may vary).
2. Provide your location and describe the patient’s condition.
3. Follow any instructions given by the operator while waiting for the ambulance.

Costs:

• Ambulance services are not free and typically cost between ¥50-¥200 (approx. $7-$30 USD), depending on the distance and level of care required.
• Payment is usually required at the hospital after treatment. Carry cash or a Chinese payment app (e.g., WeChat Pay or Alipay) as international credit cards may not be accepted.

Hospitals with Emergency Departments in Suzhou:

1. Suzhou Municipal Hospital (苏州市立医院)

   • Address: 26 Daoqian Street, Gusu District
   • Phone: +86 512 6778 0777
   • Notes: Offers emergency care and has English-speaking staff in some departments.

2. The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University (苏州大学附属第一医院)

   • Address: 188 Shizi Street, Gusu District
   • Phone: +86 512 6522 2345
   • Notes: A major hospital with advanced facilities.

3. Suzhou Kowloon Hospital (苏州九龙医院)

   • Address: 118 Wansheng Street, Suzhou Industrial Park
   • Phone: +86 512 6262 9999
   • Notes: A private hospital with English-speaking staff and international patient services.

Cultural Considerations:

• Emergency rooms in public hospitals can be crowded. Be prepared for long wait times unless the condition is critical.
• Bring a Chinese-speaking friend or translator if possible, as English proficiency among medical staff varies.
• You may need to pay upfront for treatment, so carry sufficient funds or a payment app.

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4. Traffic Accidents (122)

If you are involved in a traffic accident, call 122 for assistance.

Procedure:

1. Dial 122 and report the accident.
2. Provide your location and details about the vehicles involved.
3. Wait for the traffic police to arrive. Do not move your vehicle unless instructed to do so.

Cultural Considerations:

• Traffic laws in China may differ from those in your home country. Familiarize yourself with local rules.
• If you are a foreign driver, ensure you have a valid Chinese driver’s license, as international licenses are not recognized in China.

Costs:

Traffic police services are free, but you may need to pay for any damages or fines resulting from the accident.

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General Tips for Emergency Situations in Suzhou

1. Language Barrier: Download a reliable translation app (e.g., Google Translate or Pleco) to communicate effectively in emergencies.
2. Know Your Location: Always be aware of your address and nearby landmarks to provide accurate information to emergency responders.
3. Emergency Contacts: Save the contact information of your country’s embassy or consulate in China. For example:
   • U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai: +86 21 8011 2200
   • British Consulate General in Shanghai: +86 21 3279 2000
4. Health Insurance: Ensure you have health insurance that covers medical emergencies in China. Carry your insurance card or details at all times.
5. Cultural Sensitivity: Be patient and polite when dealing with emergency personnel. A calm demeanor can go a long way in resolving issues efficiently.

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By familiarizing yourself with these emergency services and procedures, you’ll be better prepared to handle any unexpected situations during your time in Suzhou. Stay safe!