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