Emergencies are…well, emergencies. They are unexpected events that can occur anywhere and anytime, to anyone. Whether you have a bad fall, suffer from something life-threatening or are involved in a car crash, you need to know what to do, who to call and where to go. Many retirees that make the move to Mexico’s beautiful Riviera Maya often feel stressed about what they will do if an emergency happens. It can be daunting when you’re new to a country. But there is no need to worry. The Riviera Maya is foreign-friendly in more aspects that one, taking this all the way to the emergency room.
Before arriving to Mexico, register with your Consulate
Once you have decided to make the move to Mexico, it is highly recommended that you let your country’s Consulate know that you are present in the Riviera Maya. You can do this online on your Consulate’s website. That way, in case of major emergencies – such as natural disasters – you are accounted for by your government. They will also be able to keep you informed in case of extreme weather or political conflict and advise you on the need of evacuation or others.
Phone numbers to save in case of an emergency
Of course, we highly recommend you save your Consulate or Embassy’s citizen assistance number on speed dial. In case of an emergency, you will want to let them know where you are and what happened in case you need assistance for evacuation.
Additionally, there are many numbers in Mexico that you can use for emergencies. The most important one, of course, is 911. Here, you will be able to report fire, police and medical emergencies. They will dispatch police cars, firetrucks or ambulances to your location.
If you find yourself in an emergency, there are other phone numbers you may contact that can help you. However, keep in mind that many of these (including 911) may not have English-speaking staff. However, if you do not speak Spanish, we recommend you find help. Luckily, there are other services for designed for foreigners (see below).
| General Emergencies | 911 |
| US Embassy
Canadian Embassy |
998 883 0272
998 883 3232 |
|
Playa del Carmen
|
|
| Red Cross | 984 873 1233 |
| Fire Department | 984 879 3669 |
| Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber Treatment | 984 873 1365 |
| Bureau of Immigration | 984 873 1884 |
| Civil Protection | 984 877 3053 |
|
Tulum |
|
| Red Cross | 984 802 5521 |
| Fire Department | 984 871 3732 |
| Civil Protection | 984 871 2688 |
|
Cancun |
|
| Red Cross | 998 884 1616 |
| Fire Department | 998 884 1202 |
| Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber Treatment | 998 891 5200 |
| Bureau of Immigration | 998 881 3560 |
| Civil Protection | 998 887 4341 |
English-speaking emergency services for foreigners
Because the Riviera Maya lives from tourism, there are new services that are specifically made for those who do not speak the local language. In case of emergency, you can contact either Expat911 or Guest Assist. They will offer services from emergencies to assistance and help for lost or stolen passports or credit cards. These services will also aid you in complaints, report of thefts or physical assault, roadside assistance and general information.
While emergencies are sometimes unavoidable, you can rely on Mexico’s fast-responding emergency services to help you in moments like these. Luckily, hospitals and medical services in the Riviera Maya are state-of-the-art and have dedicated, knowledgeable and fully-prepared professionals.
It’s time to think about your retirement in Mexico, now that you know no emergency can stop you. And if you’re thinking of spending your golden years here, you might as well purchase a home to truly enjoy the Riviera Maya.
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!
