Dealing with Emergencies: What Expats Need to Know

Living in China as an expat can be an exciting adventure, but emergencies—whether medical, natural, or personal—can arise unexpectedly.

Being prepared is essential to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

This guide provides detailed advice, resources, and actionable steps to help expats handle emergencies effectively while living in China.

Understanding Emergency Services in China

1. Emergency Numbers

China has specific emergency numbers for different situations.

Memorize these numbers and understand when to use them:

• Police: 110
• Ambulance: 120
• Fire: 119
• Traffic Accidents: 122

In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, emergency services often have English-speaking operators.

However, in smaller towns or rural areas, you may need assistance from a Chinese speaker.

It’s a good idea to learn basic Mandarin phrases for emergencies or use translation apps like Google Translate or Pleco.

Pro Tip: Save these numbers in your phone and label them clearly for quick access.

2. Hospitals and Clinics

China has a mix of public and private hospitals, each with its own advantages and challenges:

• Public Hospitals:
  • Affordable but often crowded.
  • Language barriers are common, as most staff may not speak English.
  • Suitable for minor issues or emergencies if you have a Chinese-speaking friend to assist.
• Private and International Hospitals:
  • Offer better services, shorter wait times, and English-speaking staff.
  • More expensive but ideal for expats.
  • Examples include United Family Healthcare and Parkway Health in major cities.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with the nearest hospital or clinic and save their contact information.

3. Pharmacies

Pharmacies are widely available in China, but not all medications familiar to you may be accessible.

Bring a supply of any essential medications and know their generic names in case you need a refill.

Apps like DXY.cn can help locate pharmacies and provide information on medications.

Preparing for Medical Emergencies

1. Health Insurance

Comprehensive health insurance is a must for expats in China. International health insurance plans are recommended, as they provide broader coverage and access to private hospitals.

Some popular providers include:

• Cigna Global
• Allianz Care
• AXA International Health Insurance

Ensure your plan covers:

• Emergency medical treatment.
• Hospital stays.
• Medical evacuation (if needed).

2. Emergency Medical Kit

Prepare a medical kit with the following essentials:

• Bandages and antiseptics.
• Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, paracetamol).
• Prescription medications.
• Thermometer.
• Antihistamines for allergies.
• Any specific medical supplies you may need.

3. Know Your Nearest Hospital

Identify the nearest hospital or clinic and map out the fastest route.

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including:

• Your doctor’s information.
• Your insurance company’s emergency hotline.
• The hospital’s phone number.

Dealing with Natural Disasters

China is prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods, and typhoons.

Here’s how to prepare:

1. Earthquakes

Regions like Sichuan and Yunnan are particularly earthquake-prone. If you experience an earthquake:

• Take cover under sturdy furniture.
• Stay away from windows and heavy objects.
• After the shaking stops, evacuate the building calmly and avoid using elevators.

Resource: China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) provides real-time earthquake updates.

2. Floods and Typhoons

Coastal areas and regions along major rivers are vulnerable to floods and typhoons. During such events:

• Monitor weather alerts using apps like AccuWeather or China Weather.
• Move to higher ground if you’re in a flood-prone area.
• Stock up on essentials like water, food, flashlights, and batteries.

3. Air Pollution

Air quality can be a significant concern in many Chinese cities. To protect yourself:

• Monitor air quality using apps like AirVisual.
• Wear masks designed to filter particulate matter (e.g., N95 masks).
• Use air purifiers at home to maintain clean indoor air.

Handling Personal Safety and Security

1. Staying Safe in Public

China is generally safe, but petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur. To stay safe:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid isolated areas at night.

2. Emergency Evacuation Plans

Create a clear evacuation plan for your home or workplace:

• Identify emergency exits and safe meeting points.
• Practice evacuation drills with family or roommates.

3. Keeping Important Documents Safe

Store copies of important documents, such as:

• Passport and visa.
• Insurance papers.
• Emergency contact numbers.

Consider using secure cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive or Dropbox) for digital copies.

Navigating Communication Barriers

1. Learn Basic Mandarin

Basic Mandarin phrases can be incredibly helpful in emergencies. For example:

• “Help!” (救命! Jiùmìng!)
• “I need a doctor.” (我需要医生。Wǒ xūyào yīshēng.)
• “Call the police.” (报警。Bàojǐng.)

2. Use Translation Apps

Apps like Google Translate and Pleco can help bridge language gaps in urgent situations.

3. Build a Local Network

Establish a network of local contacts, including neighbors, colleagues, and friends. Having someone who speaks the language and knows the area can be invaluable during emergencies.

Emergency Resources for Expats

1. Embassies and Consulates

Keep the contact information of your home country’s embassy or consulate readily available. They can assist with:

• Medical emergencies.
• Legal issues.
• Evacuation during crises.

Find your embassy’s contact details on their official website or through the EmbassyPages Directory.

2. Expat Communities

Join local expat communities and social media groups. These groups often share valuable information and support during emergencies.

Platforms like Internations or WeChat groups for expats are great starting points.

3. Local Emergency Hotlines

Familiarize yourself with local hotlines for specific services, such as:

• Medical help.
• Security assistance.
• Legal aid.

Conclusion

Emergencies can be stressful, but being prepared can make all the difference.

As an expat in China, understanding local emergency services, preparing for medical and natural disaster scenarios, and overcoming communication barriers are essential steps to ensure your safety.

By staying informed, proactive, and connected, you can confidently handle emergencies and focus on enjoying your experience in this fascinating country.

Additional Resources:

• China Travel Advisory (U.S. State Department)
• World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Preparedness
• China Weather Alerts

Stay safe, stay prepared, and make the most of your time in China!