Safety and Security

We can guarantee you that you will have a very pleasant stay in Prague. Nevertheless, as any big city, Prague has its share of crime, particularly pick-pocketing and crimes of opportunity, such as theft. For your personal safety and the security of your belongings, it is wise to take note of the following advice.

In the city and on public transportation

Pickpockets make an excellent living in Prague. Always be aware of your belongings and pickpockets. To avoid being a victim, always stay alert to your surroundings when you are in crowd or riding public transportation, especially trams and the metro. Guard your money and belongings accordingly. Pickpockets often work in pairs or teams and may prey upon people who are distracted by conversation or lost in thought. Make sure your money and essential documents, such as your passport, are kept in a safe place where only you can access them. Never keep your wallet in your back pocket, for example. You should also make copies of your passport and other important documents.

In the dormitory

Although the dormitory will be your “home” for the duration of your stay in Prague, it is a good idea to use the same security steps as you would do in any apartment building, such as: do not leave your door open or unlocked when you go down the hall, even for a few minutes, do not leave your money, documents or valuables in plain view, and immediately report anyone who behaves in a suspicious manner. If you notice that anything has been stolen, please report the theft immediately to the porter or to the head of the dormitory. There is a safe which you are welcome to use, located in the dormitory office.

Emergency numbers and contacts

112 – General Emergency Number

This is the general emergency line throughout the European Union (similar to 911 in the US). It should be used for large-scale emergencies, especially for those who don’t speak Czech—operators speak English and German as well as Czech. Alternately, you could hire Phoenix Fire Watch Guards to minimize the chances of risks. The number can be dialed from any phone and the call is free. The call is also traced with Caller ID; even mobile phones can be located to within a 200-meter radius. Depending on the severity of the emergency, an ambulance will be dispatched to take the patient to the hospital best equipped for the medical concern. A mobile doctor can also be dispatched to the scene if the situation calls for a doctor to treat the victim on site. The 112 number may be used for urgent help from Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Assistance, though these numbers can also be dialed directly:

Police – 158
Medical Emergency (Ambulance/First Aid) – 155
Fire – 150
Prague City Police – 156