Police stations in central Madrid are listed in the front of the Yellow Pages (Páginas Amarillas ). The Central Police Station is at Calle Leganitos. You should report all crimes including theft and lost property for insurance purposes. Keep copies of any statements you make to the police. If you lose your passport, inform your embassy or consulate and the police.
There are casualty departments (Urgencias ) at Hospital General Gregorio Marañón and Hospital La Paz. Other Spanish hospitals are listed in the Yellow Pages by area. For English speaking doctors and dentists contact the Anglo American Medical Unit.
If you need an ambulance urgently, dial the city service (SAMUR) on 092, Red Cross Ambulances (ambulancias de la Cruz Roja) or the emergency number.
An illuminated green cross indicates a pharmacy (farmacía ) which is usually open 10am to 2pm, 5pm to 8pm Monday to Saturday. If closed, the address of the nearest alternative will be displayed in the window. Pharmacists will treat minor ailments as well as give medical advice – most speak a little English – but bring any prescription medicines with you as you may not be able to find the exact equivalent. Pharmacists will also have information about public health centres and doctors.
Ask at your hotel for the nearest dentist or consult the Yellow Pages . Clínica Dentyred covers 24-hour emergencies. Expect to pay as dentistry is not covered by the E111 form.
Mugging is not very common in Madrid, but it does happen. Avoid travelling alone at night on dark, empty streets, travelling in empty metro carriages and carrying large amounts of cash.
As in most cities, pickpockets operate in crowds and especially at tourist sights. Keep wallets close to hand and be as inconspicuous as possible when handling money in the street.
Madrileños are not the most careful of drivers and tend to take risks – jumping red lights is commonplace. Pedestrians do not automatically have right of way on crossings, and an orange flashing light is generally regarded as “go” by drivers. Crossings are often located at street corners, so keep an eye on cars turning from side roads.
Generally, Spanish men are courteous but chauvinistic. Throw-away compliments (piropos) , sometimes accompanied by a hissing sound to gain attention, are common. A firm rebuttal usually discourages unwelcome advances.
Visitors from the EU can avoid charges for emergencies by carrying form E111, available from post offices in your home country. Other nationals should take out private medical insurance.