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Some European consuls only deal with trade issues; they do not issue passports or visas. In an emergency, contact your embassy in Washington, DC or LA. Dial 411 for assistance.

Before leaving home, photocopy all important papers. If you lose your wallet, make a police report, notify your credit card companies, and notify the credit-reporting companies to prevent identity theft. You can have money wired through Western Union.

During an emergency, dial this number free from any telephone. Be prepared to specify if medical and/or police assistance is needed and your location. Call the police department for all other matters.

San Diego has some of the country’s best hospitals. If your situation is not life threatening, urgent care clinics are less expensive. Call your insurance company for a referral to a local doctor or clinic.

Sav-On Drugs and Rite-Aid have 24-hour pharmacies.

If you don’t have health insurance, head to a community clinic. Expect to pay on the spot for services rendered. Look in the Yellow Pages under “clinics” to find a walk-in clinic.

Call 911 if anyone is injured. Call the police if property damage appears to be over $500 and/or you need a police report. Drivers must exchange driver’s license information and all vehicle insurance details. If you’re in a rental car, report any accidents or vehicle damage to the agency immediately.

It is California law for all passengers in the car to wear seatbelts. If not, you can be pulled over by the police and ticketed. Children under six and who weigh less than 60 lbs (27 kg) must be secured in a car safety seat. If renting a car, request the agency for a child seat in advance.

All major attractions have restrooms, as do gas stations and restaurants. Shopping centers, public buildings, libraries, and large hotels are other places to try. Beach restrooms are an option if you can’t find a better alternative.

All restaurants are required to post a letter grade, indicating the sanitation level, in their front window. An “A” means the restaurant has passed inspection; a “B” is passing, but sanitation issues exist; with a “C,” a restaurant has 30 days to improve or risk closure. Water from the faucet is safe to drink but may not taste great.