🛡️Safety Guide The Hague

For urgent police, fire department, or ambulance services across the Netherlands, always dial 112. It's crucial for immediate life-threatening situations.

For non-urgent police matters, such as reporting a stolen bicycle or asking for advice, use 0900-8844. This keeps the 112 line free for emergencies.

Promptly register with a General Practitioner upon arrival. Your GP is your first point of contact for all non-emergency medical concerns and referrals in The Hague.

For urgent medical issues that cannot wait until your GP's office opens, but are not life-threatening, call the Huisartsenpost. There are several in The Hague, like HMC Westeinde.

If you're from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, carry your EHIC for access to medically necessary state-provided healthcare during your stay.

Locate your nearest apotheek for prescribed medications and over-the-counter remedies. Many offer extended hours, and there's always an emergency pharmacy service.

For acute dental pain or emergencies, contact your registered dentist. If outside office hours, an emergency dental service (spoedtandarts) is available through local listings.

The GGD Haaglanden offers public health services, including mental health advice and referrals. Your GP can also guide you to appropriate psychological support services.

If you've been a victim of a crime, regardless of whether you reported it to the police, Slachtofferhulp Nederland provides free emotional and practical support.

Keep your health insurance policy details readily accessible. Understand what your coverage includes for medical treatments in the Netherlands.

The Hague is a cycling city, but bike theft is common. Always use two strong locks, ideally a chain lock and a U-lock, to deter thieves effectively.

Trams have right of way and move silently. Always look both ways, especially when crossing tracks. Cyclists can also appear quickly from unexpected directions.

The Hague's public transport (trams, buses, RandstadRail) is very safe. Be aware of your belongings in crowded vehicles and at busy stops like Den Haag Centraal.

In bustling areas like Grote Markt, shopping streets, and around train stations (Centraal Station, Hollands Spoor), keep valuables secure in front pockets or a zipped bag.

While generally safe, less-lit areas and parks such as Haagse Bos or Zuiderpark can be less secure after dark. Avoid walking alone there late at night if possible.

When enjoying The Hague's nightlife, for example around Plein or Buitenhof, stay with friends, watch your drinks, and use common sense regarding your surroundings.

If taking a taxi, opt for official TCA (Taxicentrale Amsterdam) cabs at designated stands or use trusted ride-sharing apps like Uber to ensure safety and fair pricing.

Dutch law requires cyclists to have working front and rear lights, and reflectors. This is crucial for your safety and to avoid fines, especially during darker months.

Tram tracks can be slippery, especially when wet, and wheels can get stuck. Cross them at a perpendicular angle to prevent falls, especially on a bicycle.

When visiting Scheveningen or Kijkduin beaches, keep your belongings close. Petty theft can occur, so avoid leaving items unattended while swimming or walking.

Areas around Den Haag Centraal and Hollands Spoor stations are generally safe but can attract petty crime. Remain aware of your surroundings, especially during peak hours.

Never pay a deposit or rent for a property you haven't viewed in person. Scammers often demand upfront payments for non-existent rooms or fake keys. Always verify the landlord.

Ensure your landlord is legitimate and the contract is valid. Check if the address exists and matches municipal records. Be wary of contracts that seem too good to be true.

Exercise extreme caution when buying or selling on platforms like Marktplaats. Arrange to meet in public places and inspect items thoroughly before payment to avoid scams.

Always check ATMs for tampering before use and shield your PIN. Be wary of strangers trying to "help" you at an ATM, as they might be attempting a distraction theft.

Some individuals in busy tourist spots or city centers might approach you with fake petitions or charity requests, often to distract you for pickpocketing. Politely decline.

Be skeptical of unexpected emails or SMS messages asking for personal details, bank information, or package delivery fees. Always verify the sender and never click suspicious links.

Your BSN and ID are crucial. Keep them secure and only share them with official entities. Be cautious of requests for copies, and never provide them via unsecured channels.

Familiarize yourself with Dutch tenant rights, especially regarding deposit returns and maintenance. Organizations like the Juridisch Loket can offer free legal advice.

Rent bikes from reputable shops (e.g., OV-fiets at stations) or purchase from legitimate sellers. Stolen bikes are often sold cheap on the street; buying one could implicate you.

Reputable rental agencies generally do not charge viewing fees. An agency can only charge you a fee if they are working exclusively for you, the tenant, not the landlord.