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Emergency help around Playa Potrero
The essential number, the details responders need, official directories, and a coastal emergency checklist you can keep available offline.
Immediate danger, medical emergency, fire, or crime in progress
Costa Rica national emergency line
911
The Costa Rican Tourism Board identifies 911 as the single emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire assistance.
What to tell the dispatcher
- 1What happened and whether anyone remains in immediate danger
- 2Your live map pin plus the nearest named road, business, beach access, or landmark
- 3The number of people involved and any known injuries or medical conditions
- 4Your callback number and the language you can speak
- 5Gate, building, floor, unit, or access instructions a responder will need
Build a phone and paper emergency card
- Accommodation name and full location
- Offline map pin and nearest landmark
- Host, property manager, or local contact
- Passport or ID copy and insurance details
- Medications, allergies, and emergency contact
- Vehicle description and plate number
Keep a screenshot on every traveller's phone. Mobile data, battery power, and another person's access to your unlocked device cannot be assumed during an emergency.
Official help and alert sources
These agencies maintain the current public contacts and alerts. Private phone lists can become outdated quickly.
Visitor help and safety
The Costa Rican Tourism Board publishes the national emergency number, tourist information contacts, and current visitor-safety guidance.
Official visitor contactsPublic emergency facilities
Use the CCSS directory to identify public facilities with emergency services and confirm where the required care is available.
CCSS emergency directoryPolice and Coast Guard directory
The Ministry of Public Security maintains its regional police, specialist unit, and Coast Guard contact directory.
Public Security directoryNational emergency alerts
The National Emergency Commission publishes official alerts and preparedness information for weather and natural hazards.
CNE alerts and guidanceCoastal hazard basics
During strong shaking, protect yourself first. If you are near the coast, once the shaking stops follow official instructions and marked evacuation routes. Move inland or to higher ground when authorities or natural warning signs indicate tsunami danger.
Do not return to the shore until authorities say the danger has passed. Monitor CNE alerts and local emergency instructions instead of relying on social-media reposts.
Prepare for healthcare needs too
Keep medications, insurance details, and the right care path ready before an urgent situation.
Save the numbers you may need before an emergency. Always follow instructions from emergency services and local authorities.