### Safety
Galle is generally a safe and welcoming city for both residents and visitors, though standard travel precautions apply.
* **General Crime:** Violent crime against tourists is rare. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas or on public transport. * **Tourist Police:** A dedicated Tourist Police unit operates within the Galle Fort to assist visitors, mediate disputes (like overcharging), and ensure general safety. * **Transport Safety:** When using tuk-tuks, negotiate the fare before starting the journey or use ride-hailing apps like PickMe or Uber to ensure fair pricing. Traffic can be chaotic; pedestrians should exercise caution. * **Ocean Safety:** Some beaches around Galle have strong rip currents. Always swim in designated areas, heed local warnings, and do not swim at beaches where red flags are flying. * **Emergency Numbers:** * Police Emergency: 119 * Tourist Police: 1912 * Ambulance / Suwaseriya (Free National Service): 1990 * Fire / Rescue: 110
