Just in Case: Emergency Info, Safety Tips, and Practical Details
Santa Fe is a safe and welcoming city, but a few practical details can save you trouble. Here's the information you hopefully won't need but should have just in case.
Emergency Contacts
| Service | Contact |
|---|---|
| Emergency (Police/Fire/EMS) | 911 |
| Non-emergency Police | (505) 428-3710 |
| Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center | 455 St. Michael's Drive — (505) 913-5201 |
| Presbyterian Santa Fe Medical Center | 4801 Beckner Road — (505) 772-1234 |
| Poison Control | 1-800-222-1222 |
| NM State Police | (505) 827-9300 |
Health Concerns at Altitude
- Altitude sickness — At 7,000+ feet, symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Most people adjust within 24-48 hours. Drink extra water, limit alcohol, and rest if you feel off.
- Dehydration — The dry mountain air pulls moisture from your body faster than you realize. Drink water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Sun exposure — UV radiation is significantly stronger at altitude. Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Sunburn happens fast, even on overcast days.
- Nosebleeds — Common for visitors due to the dry air. A small tube of saline nasal gel from any pharmacy helps.
Weather Hazards
- Monsoon season (July–September) — Afternoon thunderstorms can produce flash flooding in arroyos (dry streambeds). Never drive through a flooded road. Never camp or hike in a narrow canyon if rain is in the forecast.
- Winter driving — Snow is common, especially on mountain roads. Highway 475 to the ski basin can be treacherous. Carry chains or have AWD/4WD if you're driving in winter.
- Wildfire season — Spring and early summer (before monsoons arrive) is wildfire season. Air quality can be affected. Check conditions at AirNow.
- Wind — March and April can be very windy (gusts over 50 mph). This is normal for the high desert.
Wildlife
- Rattlesnakes — Present in the area but encounters are uncommon if you stay on trails. Watch where you step and put your hands. If bitten, call 911 immediately.
- Black bears — Occasionally wander into residential areas, especially in fall. Secure your trash. They're not aggressive but should not be approached.
- Coyotes — Common throughout Santa Fe. They're generally not a threat to people but keep small pets supervised outdoors.
Pharmacies and Essentials
- Walgreens — Multiple locations on Cerrillos Road and St. Michael's Drive. Some open 24 hours.
- CVS — On Cerrillos Road near the Santa Fe Place Mall.
- Smith's (Kroger) — Grocery stores with pharmacies on Cerrillos Road and St. Michael's Drive.
- Whole Foods — On Cerrillos Road near the Railyard.
Useful Local Numbers
- Santa Fe Convention and Visitors Bureau: (505) 955-6200
- Road conditions (NMDOT): 511 or nmroads.com
- Santa Fe Animal Shelter: (505) 983-4309 (found a lost pet?)