There are two types of police ( polícia ): the state police, who wear the standard khaki uniforms that are a hangover from communist days, and the local municipal or mestská polícia , who wear a variety of natty outfits depending on the fashion-consciousness of the local council. For tourists, theft from cars and hotel rooms is the biggest worry - the best way to protect yourself against such disasters is to take out travel insurance. If you are unlucky enough to have something stolen, report it immediately to the nearest police station in order to get a statement detailing what you've lost for your insurance claim. Everyone is obliged to carry some form of ID and you should carry your passport with you at all times, though realistically you're extremely unlikely to get stopped unless you're driving.

Minor ailments can be easily dealt with by the pharmacist ( lekáren ), but language is likely to be a major problem. If it's a repeat prescription you want, take any empty bottles or remaining pills along with you. If the pharmacy can't help, they'll be able to direct you to a hospital or nemocnica . If you do have to pay for any medication, keep the receipts for claiming on your insurance once you're home.