Health & Safety

Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world with an excellent healthcare system. However, there are a few things to keep in mind — especially in the mountains.

Healthcare System

Medical care is of the highest standard — even in mountain regions, there are doctors, hospitals, and rescue helicopters (REGA). For EU/EFTA citizens, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) applies — treatment under local conditions. Note: Switzerland has high deductibles — travel insurance with mountain rescue coverage is highly recommended for hikers and skiers.

Emergency Numbers

• 112 — European emergency number (always works)
• 117 — Police
• 118 — Fire department
• 144 — Rescue/emergency doctor
• 1414 — REGA (air rescue/helicopter)
• 145 — Poison emergencies
• 143 — Offered Hand (telephone counseling)

Mountain Hazards

• Altitude sickness: Possible from 2,500 m (headaches, nausea, dizziness). Move slowly, drink plenty on Jungfraujoch (3,454 m) and Klein Matterhorn (3,883 m).
• UV radiation: Extremely high in the mountains — sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, hat.
• Thunderstorms: Frequent in the mountains in summer afternoons. Start early, return before 2 PM. In case of a storm: stay away from ridges, peaks, and isolated trees.
• Hiking trails: Yellow = hiking trail (easy), Red-White = mountain trail (medium, sure-footed), Blue-White = alpine trail (difficult, experience required).

Safety

The crime rate is extremely low — even in big cities, you can safely walk alone at night. Pickpocketing occurs in tourist hotspots (Zurich main station, Lucerne Chapel Bridge), but is rare. Switzerland is one of the safest travel countries in the world.