Security and Health
Emergency Numbers
In the event of an emergency dial 100 for police, 166 for an ambulance and 199 to alert the fire department. Dial 107 to find out the opening times of the nearest pharmacy. The coastguard can be called by VHF radio or by telephone on 108. Response times to emergency calls are generally good.
Police
There are two divisions of police in the Greek Islands: the tourist police, who monitor hotels, restaurants and venues catering to tourists, and the regular police, who handle incidents of crime. The tourist police can be contacted by dialling 171. English is widely spoken.
Ambulance
Medical facilities are generally good in the major towns, although less so in the villages. Ambulance response times are good, but, as few roads have names, be prepared to give details of sights when giving directions. Telephone 166 for an ambulance in the event of a medical emergency.
Fire
Like residents, visitors should look out for and report any fires. They ignite with some regularity in the height of summer and because of the tinder dry landscape flames can spread rapidly. For emergencies, call 199.
Health Insurance
Citizens of the EU are entitled to free emergency medical care as reciprocal arrangements are in place with Greece and its islands. Before travelling, visitors should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) available from the Department of Health. The EHIC does not replace health insurance. Non-EU citizens should always have insurance.
Hospitals
Greek National Health Service facilities can be limited on the islands, although the larger towns have modern hospitals with accident and emergency departments. Staff usually speak English. Air ambulances are available, if necessary, to fly serious cases to the state-of-the-art hospitals in Athens.
Doctors
As with dentists, doctors’ private fees are payable immediately on treatment and a receipt is given for insurance purposes. Emergency medical situations should always be referred to a hospital, rather than a practitioner. Hotels can recommend local doctors who can assist with minor medical problems. Most will speak English well.
Dental Care
Dental practices are run on a private basis, with fees for emergency treatment payable immediately. Receipts are given for insurance purposes. Dentists have usually trained in Athens or further afield like the UK and, as such, the standard of knowledge and care throughout the islands is high.
Pharmacies
Pharmacists are highly trained and can advise on ailments as well as prescribe and dispense certain medicines. Identified by a green cross, pharmacies stock a large range of medication, although it is wise to carry prescribed drugs sufficient for your stay. Telephone 107 for information on timings for pharmacies.
Crime
The crime rate is especially low in the islands, although reports of theft and assaults tend to occur more frequently in the tourist areas than in the villages. It is wise to take sensible precautions, such as ensuring you do not keep all your documents or money together, watching your valuables and locking your car.