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The police, fire services, and public ambulance system can be contacted by phone by dialing 911. Generally, the police are responsive to any reports of crime against tourists, although reporting a theft may involve a lengthy bureaucratic procedure. Help is usually available from your relevant embassy or consulate. A private ambulance company, Movimed, can be reached on 535 1080.

Public hospitals and clinics are, to say the least, rudimentary. Your hotel will normally be able to recommend a doctor, probably US-trained and English-speaking. In the event of a serious emergency, you should contact your insurance company.

There are pharmacies in all the major towns, mostly well stocked, and you do not necessarily require a prescription to obtain medicines. Check that the medicines you are given are not generic and cheaper versions, and that they are not past their sell-by date.

Violent crime against foreigners is rare, but in tourist areas there is a risk of pick-pocketing and bag-snatching. Avoid dark and lonely spots, do not carry large amounts of cash, or flaunt expensive watches or cameras, and keep your valuables in the hotel, preferably in a safe.

Most visitors experience some level of harassment, especially in well-trodden tourist areas, from individuals offering a range of services. Rudeness rarely produces a satisfactory outcome and may be counter-productive.

Every town and village has its local police station, but few low-ranking officers will speak English. If you are the victim of theft, your hotel or embassy should be able to help you.

The US, Canada, and UK all have embassies with consular services in Santo Domingo.

Foreign women can receive a fair amount of unwanted attention from Dominican men, but this mostly takes the form of harmless verbal intrusions. The most effective response is a stony glare or cold indifference.

The best way to avoid an upset stomach is to steer clear of certain foods, notably meat, fish, and dairy products that have been allowed to stand too long on a buffet counter.

Do not drink the tap water. Some people prefer to not even brush their teeth with it, and you should make sure that ice cubes are made from purified water. Bottled water is cheap and widely available.