🇺🇸 San Francisco Safety Centre

🚨 Emergency Numbers in San Francisco

Source: City & County of San Francisco (sf.gov)

Hospitals & Medical Care

Hospital emergency rooms must stabilise emergencies regardless of ability to pay, but you will be billed and costs are high; travel insurance is essential. Dial 911 for an ambulance (also billed). Urgent-care clinics and pharmacies are cheaper for minor problems.

Embassies & Consulates

Embassies are in Washington, D.C.; San Francisco hosts many consulates, largely downtown and in the Financial District. Search your own country's directory for the nearest consulate.

Common Scams in San Francisco

• Car break-ins ('bipping') are rampant — never leave anything visible in a parked car anywhere in the city.
• Aggressive panhandling and fake 'donation' collectors near Fisherman's Wharf — decline and move on.
• Unofficial tour and ticket touts near Pier 39 — book reputable operators or official booths.
• Rideshare impostors at the airport — confirm the plate and driver in the app and use official pickup zones.
• Street 'shell game' and quick-cash hustles — always rigged, don't engage.

Safety Notes for Tourists

• Car break-ins are the top tourist crime — empty your vehicle completely, even the trunk, everywhere in SF.
• The Tenderloin and parts of SoMa and Mid-Market have open drug use and can feel unsafe day or night — avoid or pass through quickly.
• Popular areas (Fisherman's Wharf, Union Square by day, Golden Gate Park) are generally fine with normal caution.
• Phone snatching happens near BART/Muni doors and on the street — keep devices secure.

Frequently Asked Questions — Staying Safe in San Francisco

Last verified: 2026-08-14

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