Chapter 12 of 12 · Safety
Safety and health in Phuket
Emergency numbers, hospitals, insurance and the island’s real risks — sea, roads, sun, scams. No panic: Phuket is safe once you know the basics.
Emergency numbers
- 1155Tourist Police (English available)
- 1669Ambulance
- 191Police
- 199Fire service
Hospitals
- Bangkok Hospital Phuket
The largest private hospital, English-speaking staff, works with insurers.
- Dibuk / Vachira Phuket
State hospitals in Old Town — cheaper, but expect queues.
Real risks and how to avoid them
Insurance is a must
Private hospital care is expensive. A policy with $50,000+ coverage pays for itself in one visit. Keep the assistance number handy.
Sea and sun
Respect the beach flags (red = no swimming), beware rip currents. SPF, a hat and water — the sun is strong even through clouds.
Mosquitoes and food
Dengue fever is possible — use repellent, especially in the rainy season. Drink bottled water and choose busy eateries.
Roads
The real danger in Phuket is bike accidents. Helmet, experience, insurance. Beginners should use taxi/Grab.
Drugs — absolutely not
Possession of even small amounts in Thailand can mean long sentences and deportation. Never risk it.
Scams and taxis
Agree the price upfront or use Grab. Be careful with jet-ski rentals and bike “scratch” claims — photograph everything at pickup.
PhuketStayPro
Support on the island — on call
If something happens — we help with the hospital, translation, your insurer and everyday issues. A Russian/English-speaking assistant on call to guide and accompany you.
FAQ
What is the ambulance number in Phuket?
Ambulance — 1669, Tourist Police (English) — 1155, regular police — 191. Save them in your phone in advance.
Do I need insurance to visit Phuket?
Strongly recommended. Private hospital care is expensive, and a policy with $50,000+ coverage pays for itself in one visit. Keep the assistance number handy.
Is Phuket safe for tourists?
Generally yes: the island is calm and friendly. The real risks are bike accidents and rip currents at sea. Follow the rules and you’ll be fine.
Which hospital to use in Phuket?
Bangkok Hospital Phuket is the largest private hospital with English-speaking staff and works with insurers. State hospitals (Vachira) are cheaper but have queues.
All set — enjoy the island
300+ vetted spots across 5 districts with a map — in the PhuketStayPro members guide.
Open the guide