The police patrol the streets on foot (in large town centres) or travel in marked radio-cars. Some towns also have a municipal police (mestská polícia) .

In a threatening situation, contact the police (Policajný zbor Slovenskej republiky, PZ SR) by calling the emergency numbers, or by going immediately to a local police station (Obvodné oddelenie PZ SR), to the district command (Okresné riaditiel’stvo PZ SR) or to the regional command (Krajské riaditel’stvo PZ SR).

The best way to protect yourself against losing documents, cash or other valuables is to take a few basic precautions, particularly in crowded places. Keep your money in a safe place, out of view. On public transport you should pay attention to any unexpected and unforced contacts or collisions with other passengers. It is also unwise to sleep on the train if you are travelling alone. In a parked car do not leave money, cameras, or any other valuables in view.

Make a photocopy of your passport and write down credit card numbers, and keep valuables that you don’t need on a daily basis locked away in the safe if you are staying in a hotel.

In emergencies and in life-threatening situations EU nationals with an EHIC card are entitled to receive free medical treatment, but in all other cases hospitalization or medical help has to be paid for. The cost of a visit to a doctor is about €13. A one-day stay in hospital costs about €40, to which you have to add the cost of examinations, tests, medicines and transport.

It is best to take out travel insurance providing good cover, and if you do need to claim, keep all documentation. Foreigners travelling to Slovakia do not require any immunizations or vaccinations. The water is safe to drink, but mineral water, which is more pleasant to drink, is widely available.

Pharmacies (lekareň)  can be found in all towns and larger villages. In minor emergencies their staff will recommend suitable medication. They are generally open 8am–6pm. In larger towns there is usually a pharmacy open 24 hours.