Be Safe in San Francisco

San Francisco shouldnt present any problems to your safety or health if you use a bit of common sense. Like all major cities, crime is a fact of life. But by taking a few simple precautions you can eliminate much of the potential for becoming a victim.

Safety

Although San Francisco is generally considered one of the friendlier major American cities, it still attracts plenty of transients, deviants and criminals. Fortunately, most of this element is contained in a few of the rougher parts of town which can easily be avoided. The main tourist areas are fairly safe, just keep your eyes open for thieves and dont buy into any scams. If you keep your valuables out of sight, and cameras and bags slung across the shoulder, you shouldnt experience any trouble. Cars with rental licence plates make easy targets for thieves. Dont leave anything of value in your car, and try to park it in your hotel garage at night. Its strongly suggested that all visitors to San Francisco buy some travel insurance to ensure that any mishaps dont ruin your trip.

Police: 911

Health

There are no serious health risks in San Francisco which should cause you concern. The tap water is certainly safe to drink, but its always advisable to stick to bottled water as your stomach will not be used to the difference in microbes. The food in San Franciscos restaurants is up to international standards and wont be an issue. Keep in mind that the weather here runs from cool to cold throughout the year. Even in the midst of summer, the city can get hit by a cold front off the Pacific, sending temperatures plummeting. The damp, icy winds can quickly make you ill, so always keep a sweater and wooly hat with you, especially at night and in the mornings.

If anything does happen during your visit, there are excellent medical facilities right in San Francisco. All of the staff and doctors speak English and can assist with any problems. Visitors from other countries should check whether they are covered by their medical policy in the United States. If not, its wise to get some travel insurance to cover any unexpected hospital costs. The price of travel insurance is very small compared to a typically exorbitant American medical bill.

Ambulance: 911
Saint Francis Memorial Hospital: +1 415 353 6000