Health & Safety Guide

Three pharmacies in Florence operate around the clock:

• Farmacia Comunale 13 - Santa Maria Novella Station | Tel: 055 216761
• Farmacia Molteni - Via Calzaiuoli, 7 | Tel: 055 215472
• All'Insegna del Moro - Piazza del Duomo, 20R | Tel: 055 211343

For other pharmacy hours, call toll-free: 800 420 707

Tourist Medical Service

Via Lorenzo il Magnifico, 59 | Tel: 055 475411

24-hour medical service with English, German, and French-speaking practitioners. Fee-based service that accepts most international insurance.

Dr. Stephen Kerr (British-trained GP)

Central location near Ponte Vecchio | Tel: 055 288055 or 335 8361682

Walk-in hours: Monday-Friday 3-5pm | By appointment: Monday-Friday 9am-3pm

FSFA works with local independent counselors who provide support for students. English-speaking mental health professionals are available.

To schedule an appointment: Contact your FSFA advisor or the student services office.

Important: Ensure your health insurance includes mental health benefits.

All students must have comprehensive international health insurance covering:

• Major medical expenses
• Mental health services
• Medical evacuation
• Repatriation

EU Students: Bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Non-EU Students: Purchase international coverage before arrival

Schedule Checkups: Before leaving for Florence, complete these important medical appointments:

• General physical examination
• Dental checkup (dental care abroad can be expensive)
• Vision exam if you wear glasses or contacts

Vaccinations: Ensure you're up-to-date with routine vaccinations. Check the CDC's travel health page for Italy-specific recommendations at: wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Health Records: Bring copies of your vaccination records, recent medical history, and any relevant health documentation. Keep both physical and digital copies.

CRITICAL NOTICE: Adderall (amphetamine medication commonly prescribed for ADD/ADHD in the U.S.) is NOT available in Italy. If you have a prescription for Adderall, you MUST bring your entire supply for your stay. Contact the U.S. Consulate with questions about bringing controlled substances.

General Medication Guidelines:

• Bring enough medication to last your entire stay in Italy
• Carry medications in original prescription bottles with pharmacy labels
• Bring a copy of your prescription from your doctor (on official letterhead)
• Pack medications in carry-on luggage, not checked bags
• Bring a letter from your doctor explaining your medical needs

If You Run Out: Contact your FSFA advisor immediately. They can connect you with English-speaking doctors who can write prescriptions for Italian pharmacies. Most common medications are available in Italy, but brand names may differ.

Important: If you have comprehensive international health insurance, check with your provider about coverage for prescription medications abroad.

Students requiring accommodations for any disability must contact FSFA BEFORE departure.

Required Documentation:

• Official documentation from your physician
• Documentation from your home institution (if applicable)
• Detailed description of accommodation requirements
• List of requested services

Important to Know: Support services in Italy may differ from those available in your home country. FSFA will work with you to provide appropriate accommodations, but advance notice is essential for proper planning.

While Abroad: Carry copies of your accommodation documentation with you. FSFA advisors can help coordinate with local healthcare providers and services.

Orientation Handbook: You'll receive a printed orientation handbook during your first days in Florence. This handbook contains:

• Complete list of local healthcare facilities
• English-speaking doctor contacts
• Pharmacy locations and hours
• Emergency protocols and procedures
• Mental health resources

Keep this handbook accessible throughout your stay - it's your comprehensive health and safety reference.

Free Period Products: FSFA provides free access to period products for all students. Ask your advisor or student services office for information.

Ongoing Support: Your FSFA advisor is available to help with any health-related concerns, connect you with appropriate resources, and assist in navigating the Italian healthcare system.

High-risk areas to stay vigilant:

• Santa Maria Novella train station
• Ponte Vecchio and surrounding streets
• Uffizi and Accademia Gallery queues
• San Lorenzo Market
• Piazza del Duomo
• Public buses (especially routes 7 and 10)

Protection strategies:

• Use crossbody bags with zippers, worn in front
• Keep valuables close in crowded areas
• Never leave phones or bags on restaurant tables
• Use ATMs inside banks rather than standalone machines
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics

Watch out for these common tactics:

• Gold ring trick: Someone "finds" a ring and offers to sell it to you
• Fake petitions: People with clipboards asking for signatures (distraction tactic)
• Overly friendly strangers: Creating distraction while partner steals belongings
• Rose sellers: Accepting = pressure to pay for unwanted item
• Aggressive beggars: May become more demanding after initial payment

Best response: Politely decline and keep moving. Don't engage.

Essential guidelines for staying safe after dark:

• Never walk alone at night - always use the buddy system
• Avoid poorly-lit areas and train/bus stations after dark
• Stay in groups when going out to bars or clubs
• Keep phone charged and accessible at all times
• Use licensed taxis for late-night transportation
• Inform someone of your plans and expected return time
• Know your route home before going out

Alcohol safety: Drink responsibly, stay with your group, and never leave drinks unattended.

Important Italian laws to know:

• All drugs are illegal in Italy, including marijuana
• Public intoxication can result in fines or detention
• Buying counterfeit goods is illegal and subject to fines
• Defacing historic monuments carries serious penalties
• Must carry ID (passport) at all times
• Train/bus tickets must be validated before boarding

You are subject to Italian law during your stay. Violations can have serious academic and legal consequences.

In your accommodation:

• Lock all doors and windows, even when briefly away
• Italian doors require turning key three times to fully lock
• Don't allow strangers into your building or apartment
• Report safety concerns to FSFA Housing immediately
• Be aware of Florence's anti-noise ordinance (after 11 PM)

Guest Policy:

• Submit Guest Registration Form 24 hours in advance for all visitors
• Outside guests must leave residences by 11 PM
• FSFA students visiting other residences must leave by 1 AM

Store safely: Keep passport, visa, insurance documents, and prescriptions in a secure location. Only carry originals when traveling outside Florence.

Licensed Taxis Only:

• Use ONLY official taxis with a roof sign and visible taxi license
• Ensure the meter is turned on at the start of your ride
• Most taxis in Florence DO NOT accept credit cards - carry cash
• It can be difficult to hail taxis from the street - use taxi stands or call ahead
• NEVER accept rides from unlicensed drivers, especially at night

Public Transportation:

• Purchase bus/tram tickets BEFORE boarding from tobacco stores, kiosks, or apps
• ALWAYS validate your ticket before boarding using the machine near the entrance
• Unvalidated tickets result in fines - pay immediately or the fine doubles
• Avoid rush hour when possible - buses are crowded and attract pickpockets
• Hold bags in front of you on crowded transport

Safety Note: Taxis are relatively expensive in Florence but worth it for late-night travel or when carrying luggage. Your safety is more valuable than saving money.

MANDATORY: You must complete FSFA's Travel Notification Form before any weekend or vacation travel outside Florence. This is a program requirement, not optional.

Why This Matters: If there's an emergency - natural disaster, missed flights, political unrest, medical situation - FSFA needs to know your location to help you. In past emergencies, this information has been critical for student safety.

What to Include:

• Destination city and country
• Accommodation details (name, address, phone)
• Travel dates (departure and return)
• Travel companions (names and contact info)
• Transportation method (flight numbers, train routes)
• Emergency contact numbers at destination

Also Share With:

• Family members back home
• Trusted friends at FSFA
• Your home country's embassy (register for travel alerts)

Before Traveling:

• Research customs and local laws of countries you'll visit
• Understand local transportation and taxi systems
• Note areas to avoid and current safety conditions
• Never travel long distances alone
• Use licensed and reputable transportation services

LEGAL REQUIREMENT: Italian law requires that you carry your passport or valid ID at all times. Police can request identification, and not having it can result in fines or detention.

Other Important Laws:

• All drugs are illegal in Italy, including marijuana
• Public intoxication can result in fines or detention
• Buying counterfeit goods (usually fashion accessories) is illegal with fines
• Defacing historic monuments carries serious penalties
• Using aerial drones requires permits and authorization

Consequences Are Real: Violations can result in fines, deportation, criminal charges, and expulsion from your program. Italian legal system differs from your home country.

Religious Sites:

• Dress appropriately when visiting churches and cathedrals
• Shoulders must be covered (no tank tops or sleeveless shirts)
• Knees must be covered (no shorts or short skirts)
• Remove hats before entering
• Maintain respectful behavior and quiet voices

Dining Customs:

• Italians eat lunch around 1 PM and dinner around 8 PM
• Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner (3-7 PM)
• "Coperto" (cover charge) is often included in the bill - check before adding tip
• Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated - small amounts or rounding up
• Service can be slower than you're used to - dining is a leisurely experience

Photography & Public Behavior:

• Photography is allowed in most public places
• Always ask permission before photographing people or private property
• Some museums and churches prohibit photography
• Public displays of affection are generally accepted
• Be respectful in residential areas and avoid loud behavior

Be a Good Ambassador: Remember that your behavior reflects on FSFA, your home country, and future students. Respectful engagement with Italian culture enriches your experience and benefits everyone.

Communication & Connectivity:

• Keep your phone charged at all times - bring portable charger
• DO NOT rely on WiFi for communication - have a working cellular plan
• WiFi is not always available or reliable in emergencies
• Bring chargers with European adaptors (220 volts, not 110)
• Hair dryers and similar appliances may short out even with adaptors

Stay Informed:

• Monitor local Italian media for current events daily
• Check for strikes, demonstrations, or festivals that may affect your day
• Sign up for embassy travel alerts for countries you plan to visit
• Follow FSFA communications for program updates
• Be aware of weather forecasts and air quality

Physical Safety Basics:

• Always walk on sidewalks when present
• Be cautious at zebra crossings - cars may not stop
• Follow traffic rules carefully when cycling on busy streets
• Stay hydrated, especially in summer heat
• Wear comfortable, thick-soled shoes for cobblestone streets

After Dark:

• Avoid bus and train stations after dark
• Stay away from poorly-lit areas
• Always walk in groups - never alone
• Let someone know your route and expected return time
• Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, leave the area