Chongqing Emergency Guide: Hospitals, Police & Help Cards
⚠️ Heads Up: No photos, just text. I know it looks dry, but please read it carefully. This isn’t about the view; it’s about staying alive. When things go wrong, this information is the only thing that matters—it could save your life.“
Chongqing is safe, but accidents can happen. This guide will help you get help quickly.
Step 1: The “Big Three” Numbers (Call These First)
If you are in danger, call these numbers. They are free.
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: English-speaking operators are NOT guaranteed.
If the operator doesn’t understand you, do not hang up. Find the nearest young Chinese person (they are more likely to speak English), hand them your phone, and point to one of the “Flashcards” in Step 2 below.
👮 Police: 110
- For: Theft, Accidents, Disputes, Physical Danger.
🚑 Ambulance: 120
- For: Serious Medical Emergencies.
- Note: You may need to pay cash for the ambulance ride upon arrival.
🔥 Fire: 119
- For: Fire, entrapment.
Step 2: Emergency Language Cards (Show This)
If you cannot speak Chinese, show these sentences to a taxi driver or police officer.
HELP ME! 请帮帮我! (Qing bang bang wo)
Please take me to the nearest hospital. 请带我去最近的医院。 (Qing dai wo qu zui jin de yi yuan)
I need the police. 我要报警。 (Wo yao bao jing)
Step 3: Best Hospitals in Chongqing for Foreigners
Not all hospitals are the same. Choose the right one for you.
Option A: Raffles Hospital Chongqing
- Type: International Private Hospital.
- Best For: English service and comfort.
- Pros: Western-style service. Most staff speak English. Accepts international insurance direct billing.
- Cost: Expensive (Accepts international insurance).
- 📍 Location: Yubei District.
- 🚕 Show Taxi Driver: 请带我去:重庆莱佛士医院 (渝北区华润路2号).
Option B: The First Affiliated Hospital of CQMU
- Type: Top-tier Public Hospital (Government).
- Best For: Serious medical problems (Top doctors).
- Pros: The best medical equipment and specialists in the city. Cheaper than private.
- Cost: Cheaper.
- 📍 Location: Yuzhong District (near city center).
- 🚕 Show Taxi Driver: 请带我去:重医附一院 (渝中区袁家岗).
Step 4: What to Do If You Lose Your Passport
If you lose your passport, follow these 3 steps:
1. Go to the nearest Police Station. You must get a formal “Loss Report” (报案证明 – Bao An Zheng Ming).
2. Go to the Chongqing PSB Exit-Entry Administration. You need to apply for a temporary travel document (visa replacement).
- Address: No. 555 Huangshan Avenue, Yubei District (渝北区黄山大道555号).
3. Contact your country’s Embassy/Consulate (Most are in Beijing or Chengdu) to apply for a new passport.
Metro or Cableway Emergency Procedures in Chongqing
Chongqing’s metro is safe and well-managed.
If something happens:
- Press the Emergency Button inside the train.
- Wait for staff instructions.
- Do not force the doors open.
Cableway emergency?
Staff will perform controlled slowdown; never attempt to exit without instructions.
What to Do If You Get Scammed During Your Chongqing Travel
Although scams in Chongqing are not very common, they’re still possible.
Scams You Might Encounter
- Fake taxi overcharging
- Pickpocketing in very crowded attractions
- Online or street ticket sellers
What to do
- Call 110 immediately.
- Provide details, location, and screenshot evidence.
- Inform your hotel; they can communicate with local officers.
Rest assured, police in Chongqing take tourism-related safety seriously and respond quickly.
Spicy Food Emergencies: How to Reduce Spiciness
Chongqing food is very spicy (Málà)—especially Chongqing hotpot. If your mouth is burning:
- Drink Milk: Do not drink water. Water spreads the spice. Milk or Yogurt stops the burning.
- Eat Rice: Bread or rice helps absorb the oil.
- No Alcohol: Alcohol makes the pain worse.
Chongqing is a remarkably safe and traveler-friendly city. Most visits go smoothly, filled with scenic views, delicious food, and unforgettable adventures.
But knowing what to do during emergencies gives you confidence and peace of mind, so you can enjoy your trip worry-free.
❓Poeple Also Ask
What is a help card for travelers?
A help card shows important information, like your hotel address and emergency contacts, in Chinese.
What should I do in a medical emergency?
Call 120 or ask hotel staff to help you contact a hospital.
Is Chongqing safe for tourists?
Yes. Chongqing is generally safe. Crime is rare, even at night.