Security and Health
1. Emergencies
In an emergency, dial 911 for fire, police, or medical assistance. Hotels can also arrange for a doctor in an emergency. Major disasters, such as hurricanes and floods, are handled by Puerto Rico Emergency Management Agency.
Police • 787 343 2020
Puerto Rico Emergency Management Agency • 787 729 7637
2. Health Services
Local health standards are comparable with those of the US mainland. There are doctors and hospitals in all cities, and clinics in smaller towns. Many large hotels have nurses on staff. Your hotel may also be able to recommend an English-speaking doctor. Invest in insurance for travel, as fees for medical services can be high. Most US health-insurance plans are accepted.
Ashford Presbyterian Community Hospital • San Juan • 787 721 2160
Perea Hospital • Mayagüez • 787 834 0101
Dr. Pila Hospital • Ponce • 787 848 5600
3. Pickpockets
Plenty of tourists get lulled into a false sense of security and are victims of pickpocketing or opportunistic snatch-and-grab theft. Avoid wearing jewelry in public, keep wallets in a secure pouch, and keep your valuables in a hotel safe.
4. Personal Safety
The US State Department issues no special travel advisories for Puerto Rico, where violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. However, muggings have occurred at night on San Juan’s Condado and Isla Verde beaches. Stay alert when walking along the back streets of San Juan and the area around Old San Juan’s cemetery and La Perla district. There is scant regard for traffic regulations, so be sure to drive carefully.
5. Harassment
Many visitors may experience some level of harassment in tourist areas, from touts offering services or selling trinkets. Rudeness rarely produces a satisfactory outcome – a firm “no” should suffice. Should you wish to lodge a formal complaint, call 1800 866 7827.
6. Police
Tourist police patrol Old San Juan, as well as Condado and Isla Verde. Every town has a local police station. Be aware that low-ranking offices may not have English-speaking staff.
7. Sunstroke
The tropical sun is intense, so make sure you use sunscreen with a high UV factor, plus a hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts. Avoid the midday sun. See a doctor if, after sun exposure, you feel nauseous, dizzy, or chilled.
8. Women Travelers
Women can receive a fair amount of unwanted attention from Puerto Rican men. Usually it takes the form of harmless, though sometimes vulgar, comments. Avoid remote beaches and walking alone at night.
9. Prescription Medicines
It is always a good idea to bring along enough prescription medications to last the duration of your stay. Still, pharmacies are ubiquitous in Puerto Rico and there should be no problem getting refills should the need arise.
10. Water and Food Hygiene
Tap water is said to be safe to drink, but try to stick to bottled water. Food hygiene is generally good, but avoid food that has been in the sun or stood too long on a buffet counter.
