Xi'an
Public Safety
Sections
1. Emergency Services in Xiโan
Xiโan has a well-organized emergency response system, and the following are the key emergency numbers you should know:
- 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. However, operators may not always speak English, so itโs helpful to have a Chinese-speaking contact or a translation app ready.
How to Call for Help:
- Clearly state your location. If youโre unsure, describe nearby landmarks or show your location on a map app (e.g., Baidu Maps or Google Maps).
- If you donโt speak Chinese, try to find a local who can assist you in making the call.
2. Police Assistance
The police in Xiโan are generally approachable and helpful, especially in tourist areas like the Muslim Quarter, the Terracotta Warriors site, and the city center. Police stations are marked with the word "ๅ ฌๅฎ" (Gongโan).
When to Contact the Police:
- If you are a victim of theft, assault, or harassment.
- If you lose your passport or other important documents.
- If you are involved in a traffic accident.
Procedures for Reporting an Incident:
- Visit the nearest police station or call 110.
- Bring your passport or ID if possible.
- File a report (a translator may be needed if you donโt speak Chinese).
- For lost items, you may need to obtain a police report for insurance or embassy purposes.
Cultural Considerations:
- Police officers may not speak English, so having a translation app or a bilingual friend can be very helpful.
- Be patient and polite, as cultural norms in China emphasize respect and calmness in interactions with authorities.
3. Healthcare Access During Emergencies
Xiโan has several high-quality hospitals and clinics, including international hospitals that cater to foreigners. In case of a medical emergency, dial 120 for an ambulance or go directly to the nearest hospital.
Recommended Hospitals for Foreigners:
-
Xiโan International Medical Center Hospital (่ฅฟๅฎๅฝ้ ๅปๅญฆไธญๅฟๅป้ข):
- Address: No. 777, Xitai Road, High-Tech Zone, Xiโan.
- Services: English-speaking staff, international-standard care.
- Costs: Higher than local hospitals; expect to pay upfront unless you have international insurance.
-
Xiโan Gaoxin Hospital (่ฅฟๅฎ้ซๆฐๅป้ข):
- Address: No. 16, Tuanjie South Road, High-Tech Zone, Xiโan.
- Services: Good facilities, some English-speaking staff.
-
Xiโan Central Hospital (่ฅฟๅฎๅธไธญๅฟๅป้ข):
- Address: No. 161, Nanguanzheng Street, Beilin District, Xiโan.
- Services: General care, less expensive than international hospitals.
Costs and Payment:
- Emergency care costs vary but can range from ยฅ200โยฅ1,000 for basic treatment. Advanced care or hospitalization can cost significantly more.
- Payment is typically required upfront unless you have insurance that the hospital accepts.
- Carry cash or a Chinese payment app (e.g., WeChat Pay or Alipay), as international credit cards may not always be accepted.
Tips for Healthcare Access:
- Bring your passport, as it is required for registration at hospitals.
- If you have allergies or pre-existing conditions, carry a translated medical card in Chinese.
- Consider purchasing travel or international health insurance before your trip.
4. Local Safety Tips
Xiโan is generally a safe city, but itโs always wise to take precautions. Here are some tips to ensure your safety:
General Safety:
- Pickpocketing: Be cautious in crowded areas like the Muslim Quarter or public transportation. Keep your belongings secure.
- Scams: Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or invitations, as scams targeting tourists can occur.
- Traffic: Traffic in Xiโan can be chaotic. Always use pedestrian crossings and be cautious of electric scooters and bicycles.
Transportation Safety:
- Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing. Avoid unlicensed cabs.
- On buses and the metro, keep an eye on your belongings, especially during rush hours.
Night Safety:
- Xiโan is safe at night, especially in well-lit areas like the Bell Tower or South Gate. However, avoid poorly lit or deserted areas.
- If youโre out late, arrange transportation in advance, as public transport may stop running after 11 PM.
Cultural Sensitivities:
- Respect local customs, especially in religious areas like the Muslim Quarter. Dress modestly and avoid taking photos of people without permission.
- Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or making negative comments about Chinese culture.
5. Cultural and Procedural Considerations
Understanding local customs and procedures can make navigating public safety services easier:
Language Barrier:
- English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic Mandarin phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful.
- Carry a card with your hotelโs name and address in Chinese characters to show to taxi drivers or authorities if needed.
Documentation:
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa. Keep the originals in a safe place.
- If you lose your passport, report it to the police immediately and contact your embassy for assistance.
Emergency Apps:
- WeChat: Useful for communication and payments.
- Baidu Maps: Excellent for navigation in China.
- Pleco: A Chinese-English dictionary app that can help with translations.
Embassy Assistance:
If you encounter serious issues, contact your countryโs embassy or consulate in China. The nearest consulate may be in Beijing or Shanghai, so plan accordingly.
6. Costs and Practical Tips
- Emergency Services: Free to call, but treatment or assistance may incur costs.
- Police Reports: Free, but you may need to pay for document translations if required.
- Healthcare: Costs vary; international hospitals are more expensive but offer better services for foreigners.
- Transportation: Taxis and ride-hailing apps are affordable, with fares starting at around ยฅ10โยฅ15.
Conclusion
Xiโan is a safe and welcoming city, but being prepared for emergencies and understanding local procedures will ensure a stress-free experience. Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers, carry essential documents, and respect local customs to make the most of your time in this historic city.