St. John's is a moderate-sized city and is considered safe. Tourists should practice the same safety precautions they do at home, such as locking their cars and hotel rooms. Take precautions late at night, especially walking in the downtown area. Tourist facilities are widely available throughout the province, and the rustic fishing villages live up to their reputations for friendly hospitality.
If you're camping or canoeing through the wilderness, pay close attention to the fire danger and have a plan ready if the forest is exceptionally dry. Keep your food in a secure place and never dispose of refuse near your campsite—it's an open invitation to be woken up by curious animals. Always have a first-aid kit with you and use common sense, such as wearing a life jacket while on the water. Be aware that many areas of the province are rural, and cellular phone service is not as widely available as it is in more populated areas.
Don't underestimate weather conditions when planning outdoor activities. Avoid hiking on Signal Hill and all rocky terrain during foggy conditions. Rainy weather and snow also can pose serious consequences for hikers. If unsure, consult an outfitting company before setting out. Even if they're not supplying your gear, they'll be more than happy to prevent an inexperienced hiker from having an accident.
Keep in mind that the Atlantic Ocean is not safe for swimming, unless you are in the protected coves of Conception Bay. Take extra precautions as you approach the ocean from popular vistas such as Cape Spear and Middle Cove, a beautiful rocky beach just north of the city limits.
All emergency assistance in Canada can be reached by dialing 911. Good medical care is available in most places throughout the province. Two hospitals in the St. John's area offer walk-in emergency room service. St. Clare's Hospital, on LeMarchant Road (phone 709-777-5000), is closer to downtown hotels. The General Hospital in the Health Sciences Centre (phone 709-777-6300), off the Prince Philip Parkway and near Memorial University, is the province's largest hospital.
Be aware that the farther you are into the wilderness, the longer it will take EMTs to reach you in the event of an emergency. Out-of-country tourists should have health insurance to cover any medical expenses.
West Nile virus is a reality there, so always wear insect repellent when outside. Gauge your risk. People who have an immune suppression disorder, plan to backpack through the woods or have young children will require more protection than someone with no known risks.
Sunscreen is also highly recommended during the summer months, as are parkas, toques and mitts in the winter.
The number for the Mental Health Crisis Line is 709-737-4668.
With its rolling (and sometimes steep) hills, downtown St. John's can pose a challenge for visitors with physical limitations. Provincial government regulations include accessibility rules (which include public transportation—the Metrobus), although older buildings may pose difficulty in gaining access.
Do stop at all lookout points and take pictures. You won't find more beautiful scenery anywhere.
Don't confuse St. John's, Newfoundland, with Saint John, New Brunswick. In 1925, Saint John, New Brunswick, decided to distinguish itself from St. John's, and locals in both cities don't appreciate being mistaken for their counterparts.
Do buckle up—provincial law requires it. You are also required by law to keep children who weigh less than 80 pounds and are under 8 years old in a certified safety restraint. Visitors traveling through the province are not exempt, so be prepared.
Don't be surprised if Canadian beer is stronger than you expect.
Do be extra cautious driving along wooded highways, particularly at dawn and dusk, as moose crossing the roads are fairly common and quickly moving fog can add an element of danger. Drive at a reasonable speed and heed caution signs in the areas where animals are most frequently spotted.
Don't go hunting without a licensed guide, as provincial law requires all nonresident hunters to have one. Canada has very strict gun-control laws: No revolvers, pistols or fully automatic firearms are allowed.
Do take a trip to Portugal Cove and take the Ferry to Pearl Island where you can see iron mines and World War II wrecks. And take a double decker bus tour of Signal Hill.
Don't be surprised if you experience extremes of weather in a short period, and be careful driving in the winter—roads can become ice-packed and hazardous. Call ahead for local road conditions. Consult local newspapers and radio stations for tide information.
Do take warm clothing if you plan to arrive during the winter, and warm layers during the summer. Take sun protection and insect repellent in summer. West Nile virus is an unpleasant reality in the Atlantic Provinces.
