Safety Tips and Behavioral Norms
As in any other country, travelers should observe general safety rules and norms of behavior in public places.
Alcohol Consumption
In Russia, it is prohibited by law to consume alcohol in public places, for example, in the streets.
Personal Space
Respect the personal space of other people: do not approach them too closely and do not speak too loudly.
Storing Valuables
In most cases, leaving valuables in hotel rooms is safe. For your peace of mind, you can place valuable items and documents in a safe. Check its availability in the room when booking.
Emergency Services Contacts
In case of an emergency situation, you can seek help by dialing the single emergency number 112. Be prepared that the dispatcher will ask to state your name, citizenship, and tell about your current location. Disclosing this information to authorized personnel is safe and necessary for providing you with assistance.
Fire Service
101
Police
102
Ambulance
103
Road Traffic Rules
Travelers over 18 years old can explore Russia by car. To rent a car in Russia, you will need to present a passport, an international driver's license or a certified translation of a national license, as well as a document confirming the right to stay in the country. Compliance with traffic rules is monitored by the State Road Traffic Safety Inspectorate - this is the traffic police department. Inspection officers can stop you during a trip to conduct a check and ask to present documents. Such a situation is a common occurrence; regular checks help maintain order and safety on the roads.
Right-Hand Traffic
Traffic on the roads is on the right side. Overtaking is permitted on the left. It is necessary to yield to pedestrians at crossings and to public transport near stops.
Seat Belts
While driving, all passengers, even those in the back seat, must be fastened with a seat belt.
Speed Limits
In built-up areas, driving is permitted at a speed not exceeding 60 km/h, in residential areas - not exceeding 20 km/h. At the same time, there are sections with high-speed traffic; such restrictions are indicated by special variable message signs and road signs. For speed control, surveillance cameras are installed on many sections.
Alcohol Restriction
Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Restriction on Gadget Use
While operating a vehicle, it is prohibited to use a telephone. If you need to use a navigator on your phone, mount the gadget on a special holder; this way your hands will remain free during driving and you will not violate the rules.
Child Seat
Children under 7 years old must be transported in special child seats ensuring their safety.
Road Accident
If you are involved in a road accident, immediately contact the police by telephone 102 and do not leave the scene of the incident until the police arrive.
Lost Items
Do not leave personal belongings unattended. Otherwise, they may be lost.
Documents
In case of loss of documents, immediately contact the police.
Personal Belongings
If you lost something from your personal belongings, check if there is a special lost and found room at that place. For example, such places exist in the metro, at train stations, airports, and most museums. Employees of the establishment, the police, or local security will also be able to help you.
Car
If your car is not in the place where you left it, there is a possibility that you violated parking rules or did not pay for parking. Road service employees move improperly parked cars to special impound lots. To find out where it is, call number 112.
Credit Card
If you lost a credit card, block it as soon as possible. After that, report the incident to the police.