Safety On-site

What to do in case of an Emergency

In a medical emergency or other immediate crisis, you can call emergency services (1169) for an ambulance, although a taxi is often the fastest way to get to the hospital. As soon as you are able, please call the CIS Abroad emergency phone (+66 62 7272233). This number is also on the emergency contacts card you receive upon arriving on site.

1. First dial 1155 to reach tourist police who can connect you with health and police resources, firefighting resources, rescue and civil protection. The operator will answer the phone in Thai. Respond in English and you will be transferred to an English-speaking operator in a few moments. Be prepared to say your name and share your exact location and type of emergency.
2. Then call CIS Abroad US Emergency Phone at +1 413 210 7091 / Emergency Email: emergency@cisabroad.com (you can share this number with your parents). The CIS Abroad emergency phone is used for on-site emergencies across the world, and someone will always be able to answer, as the phone is monitored 24/7.

Crime

Thailand is generally considered very safe. Visitors will only encounter police officers carrying firearms, and instances of violent crime against visitors are very rare.

However, pickpocketing can be an issue in tourist areas, so you should remain vigilant in order to prevent it. 

• Avoid sketchy areas at night, such as Khao San road in Bangkok.
• Be careful when drinking. Be aware of your level of inebriation, and do not let yourself become heavily intoxicated to the point of being unable to keep yourself safe. Don't leave your drinks unattended. If drinking with a group, make sure you all leave together, and do not let a drunk friend go off on their own. 
• Know the common scams. This typically involves a "friendly" stranger  helping you find your way or telling you that the temple or place you are going to is closed today. They can be pushy, so know that it is not rude to decline. If you accept, they may offer you a tuk tuk tour where they will try to get you to buy jewelry or suits.  
• Keep a low profile to deter pickpockets. Don't show off expensive jewelry. Consider switching from a purse to a more secure crossbody bag. (Fanny packs are not only fashionably "in" around Thailand but are also incredibly practical!) If you carry a bag or backpack, place it on your lap on public transportation. Do not carry your passport on your person unless necessary. 

Take these precautions when out:

• Leave your passport at home (make a photocopy of the front page to carry out).
• Don’t carry large sums of cash on you.
• Wear your bag and camera across your chest.
• Put your wallet and anything else of value in your front pockets.
• Keep your belongings in your lap when sitting on a terrace or at the bar/restaurant not on the floor or slung over the back of the chair.
• Be careful who you ask to take a picture with your camera (you may not see it again!).
• Use taxis to get home late at night.

Major Incidents 

In the event of a major incident, it is important to take the following steps to ensure your safety:

1. Stay away from the incident area and avoid any unnecessary travel in the immediate vicinity.
2. Find a safe location to take refuge, such as a friend's house, hotel, or restaurant.
3. Notify the staff immediately and contact your family and friends to inform them of your situation.
4. If you need assistance, reach out to the CIS Abroad US Emergency Phone: +1 413 210 7091 for help. It is crucial to remain calm and follow these steps to ensure your safety and well-being during a crisis.

Calling For Help

If you find yourself in need of assistance in Thailand, there are several ways to call for help. In case of an emergency, dial 1155, the Tourist Police, on any  phone. When calling for help, it's important to clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and any other relevant information to ensure a prompt and effective response. English is widely understood in tourist areas, but having some basic Thai phrases may also be helpful in communicating with local authorities. Here are a few helpful phrases:

1. Help! – chuai duai (ช่วยด้วย!)! 
2. It's an emergency - Mạn pĕn h̄etu c̄hukc̄hein
    (มันเป็นเหตุฉุกเฉิน)
3. Thank you – khop khun (khrup/ka) (ขอบคุณครับ)
4. Sorry/excuse me – Khor thoad khrup/ka (ขอโทษ)
5. I'm ill – pom/chan boo ay (ฉันป่วย)
6. I need a doctor- chan dung pook paad (ฉันต้องพบแพทย์)
7. Can you speak English? = Khun pood paasaa anggrit dai mai (คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม)

These phrases will be helpful in various situations, whether you need assistance with directions, medical attention, or other emergencies. Knowing these basics can make it easier for you to communicate your needs to Thai-speaking locals and get the help you require.

STEP Program

The US government provides a free service known as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to all US citizens. Enrolling in this program registers your trip with the U.S. Embassy. In the case of an emergency, this allows the Embassy to contact you with important safety information, and can help put you in touch with friends and family.