Unseen Bangladesh অদেখা বাংলা

Emergency information and safety

Emergency phone numbers including 999, safety tips for hills, sea and monsoon, and a seasonal packing list.

Have a quick look before you set off. Tap a number to call it from your phone.

Emergency numbers

  • 999: National emergency service: police, fire service, ambulance
  • 333: Government information and services
  • 16263: Shastho Batayon: medical advice by phone
  • 109: Helpline against violence towards women and children

Travel safety tips

  • Before visiting the hill districts or Saint Martin's Island, check the latest instructions from the local administration. Some areas need a permit or a guide.
  • Do not swim when the red flag is up. Follow the lifeguards and do not go far out at low tide.
  • Hill paths and waterfall rocks are slippery in the monsoon. Wear shoes with good grip and do not take risks alone.
  • Carry a copy of your national ID or passport. Checkposts may ask for it.
  • Ask before photographing people, especially in hill communities. Dress and behave modestly at religious sites.
  • Ask for a life jacket on boats and launches. Do not board an overloaded boat.
  • Bring your plastic and rubbish back. Leave every place as you found it.

Packing list

  • Copy of national ID or passport
  • Phone charger and power bank
  • Small first-aid kit
  • Your regular medicines
  • Water bottle
  • Cash (cards and mobile banking do not work everywhere in villages)
  • Comfortable shoes
  • A bag to carry your rubbish back

Monsoon

  • Umbrella or raincoat
  • Waterproof bag for phone and papers
  • Salt and long socks against leeches
  • Quick-drying clothes

Winter

  • Warm clothes and a scarf
  • Lip balm and moisturiser
  • Light jacket for foggy mornings
  • Extra blanket or shawl for nights in the north

Hills

  • Trekking shoes with good grip
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Torch or headlamp
  • Dry snacks and oral saline

Sea and islands

  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • Sunglasses
  • A spare set of clothes
  • Sandals