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As in most cities, the most common crimes are pickpocketing and purse snatching. Common sense can help deter these problems. Leave surplus cash, unnecessary credit cards, and valuables in a safe place at your hotel. Don’t walk around with your wallet in a back pocket, and keep bags securely fastened and close to your body. Do keep a copy of your credit card numbers (and the number to call if they are lost) separate from the cards, and bring photocopies of important documents in case they are stolen.

It’s best to avoid using public transportation late at night. Take a taxi instead. However, when you do take a train, stand well back on the platform until the train has stopped, never sit in an empty carriage, and do not lean against the train doors. Train platforms and trains usually have an intercom in case of emergency.

Plan your route before setting off so that you know where you are going. If you do get lost, try not to make a big show of consulting your map or guidebook. At night, avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas and in parks. Steer clear of areas beyond the south branch of the Chicago River (west of Downtown) and parts of the South Side where crime levels are higher.

Make yourself aware of the fire escape route from your room as soon as you arrive. Always keep the door locked, and be sure you know who is knocking before you let anyone in. Valuables are best kept locked in the in-room, or preferably hotel, safe.

For police, fire, and medical emergencies call 911. If you are not in a position to speak, the emergency locator should still be able to track you. For non-emergency police matters, such as theft, dial 311 to reach the City Help-line. Both numbers can be accessed by cell phones.

Hospitals and emergency rooms are listed in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory. Your concierge will know which one is most convenient. Weiss Memorial Hospital and Northwestern Memorial Hospital are convenient to Downtown and the north side of the city, while Bernard A. Mitchell Hospital, at the University of Chicago, serves the South Side.

In an emergency, call 911 or go directly to the nearest hospital. Even with medical insurance, you may have to pay for services yourself and claim reimbursement after. Contact your insurer before receiving any treatment.

Many dental clinics are open 24 hours. Check with the hotel concierge or contact the Chicago Dental Society for a referral.

Pharmacies are plentiful throughout the city. Many are open 24 hours. The most popular drug store chains (Walgreens, Osco, and CVS) all have pharmacies inside.

Chicago is a city of extreme seasons. Visitors should be prepared for cold, windy, and snowy winters, which can create hazardous conditions. In summer, the extreme heat can cause health problems: ensure you apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water.