Emergency numbers, hospitals, EU health card, travel insurance and the real Arctic-environment risks.
Lapland is one of the safest places on earth. With a little common sense and these essential facts, you will feel confident exploring the Arctic wilderness.
Finland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare, locals are helpful and honest, and the infrastructure is modern and reliable. In Lapland, your biggest 'dangers' are slippery ice, curious reindeer and forgetting to look up when the Northern Lights appear.
That said, the Arctic environment deserves respect. Cold temperatures, remote distances and winter darkness are real factors. Knowing a few key numbers and precautions will keep your trip worry-free.
The European Emergency Number, Works for Everything
Police, fire, ambulance, search and rescue: one number handles it all. Operators speak English. You can also call 112 from any phone, even without a SIM card. The number works across the entire EU.
Download the free 112 Finland app. It sends your GPS location automatically when you call, which is critical in remote wilderness areas.
If you hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), you are entitled to the same public healthcare as Finnish residents. Bring your card and present it at any health centre or hospital. You may pay a small patient fee, which is normal in Finland.
Travel insurance is still recommended for extras like repatriation, lost luggage and trip cancellation.
Travel insurance with medical coverage is essential. Finnish healthcare is excellent but can be expensive for uninsured visitors. Make sure your policy covers emergency evacuation and repatriation. Lapland is remote and helicopter rescue may be needed in wilderness areas.
Keep your insurance documents and policy number easily accessible at all times.
Lapland has a network of health centres and hospitals. Distances between them can be long, so knowing the nearest one to your accommodation is wise.
Rovaniemi · Full hospital with emergency ward
The main hospital for all of Lapland. 24/7 emergency department with surgery, intensive care and specialist services. Located in Rovaniemi city centre.
Sodankylä · Health centre with emergency services
Serves the central Lapland area including Luosto. Daytime doctor services and basic emergency care. For serious emergencies, patients are transferred to Rovaniemi.
Ivalo · Serves the Inari and Saariselkä area
Located in Ivalo, this centre serves the popular Saariselkä resort area and Inari region. Daytime doctor services. The nearest full hospital is 300 km south in Rovaniemi.
Finnish pharmacies carry over-the-counter medications and can advise on minor ailments. Typical hours are Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00, Sat 09:00–15:00. In Rovaniemi, the pharmacy at the shopping centre has extended hours.
Exposed skin can get frostbitten in minutes at −20 °C with wind. Cover all skin when heading outdoors. Fingers, toes, ears and nose are most vulnerable. If skin turns white or waxy and feels numb, get indoors immediately. Warm the area slowly with body heat, and never rub frostbitten skin.
Hypothermia can develop even in mild cold if you are wet or exhausted. Watch for shivering, confusion, slurred speech and drowsiness. If someone shows these signs, get them into warmth immediately, remove wet clothing and call 112. This is a medical emergency.
Finnish roads are well-maintained but winter driving requires respect. All rental cars come with winter tyres (required from November to March whenever conditions demand). Reduce speed, increase following distance and brake gently. Black ice is invisible and dangerous. If you skid, steer into the direction you want to go.
Reindeer roam freely across Lapland and often wander onto roads. There are roughly 200,000 semi-domesticated reindeer in Finnish Lapland. They do not fear cars and may freeze in headlights. If you see one, slow down, as there are usually more nearby. Bears exist in Lapland but are extremely shy and encounters are rare.
Download our printable pocket-sized safety card with all emergency numbers, nearest hospitals, key Finnish phrases and winter safety tips. Fits in your wallet.
Official emergency services website. Download the 112 Suomi app and learn when and how to contact emergency services.
Information about healthcare coverage for visitors, EHIC/GHIC card usage and reimbursement of medical costs in Finland.
Find your nearest pharmacy, check opening hours and learn about over-the-counter medications available in Finland.
Consular services and embassy contacts if you need assistance from your home country while visiting Finland.