Overview
Do not carry too much cash on you. Toronto like most major metropolises has its share of pickpockets. Obviously this applies only to crowded areas such as subways, buses and renowned tourist attractions.
Guard against illnesses such as diarrhea and respiratory infections. Eat freshly cooked food and drink only bottled water.
Toronto suffers from air pollution. Whilst the smog is not so severe, tourists are advised to carry anti-allergic medicines with them and to wash their hands, eyes and mouth when returning from the outside.
Half of all traffic fatalities in Toronto are pedestrians, so it is essential to be very careful while crossing roads- Look both ways, walk on the sidewalk and only cross the road once the traffic has stopped.
Make sure your travel insurance includes health insurance as Toronto’s hospitals and doctors’ charge exorbitantly for their services (the standard hospital bed rate for nonresidents is about $2500/day). In case of an illness carry the following numbers and information pertaining to medical caregivers:
Hospital for Sick Children Phone: 416-813-1500 Website: www.sickkids.on.ca Address: 170 Elizabeth St, emergency on Gerrard St W
Mount Sinai Hospital Phone: 416-596-4800 Emergency: 416-586-5054 Website: www.mtsinai.on.ca Address: 600 University Ave
Toronto General Hospital Phone: 416-340-3111 Emergency: 416-340-3946 Website: www.uhn.ca Address: 200 Elizabeth St.
Dental Emergency Clinic Phone: 416-485-7121 Website: www.dentalemergency.com Address: Greater Toronto Area, 1650 Yonge St; 8am-midnight; St Clair)
In case of emergencies always carry the following numbers with you: Fire: 911 Police: 911 Ambulance: 911 Emergencies: 911 Tourist Assistance [Police]: - Lifeline: 416-408-HELP (4357) Vehicle Breakdown: 647 242 2243 Telephone directory enquiry: 411 [Local Numbers]; 1-416-555-1212 [International Numbers] Airport Enquiry: (416) 776 -3000 Railway Enquiry: 1800-VIA-RAIL (1800-842-7425)
