Greystone College Arrival Guide & Orientation

Health and Safety

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  Emergencies

  In an emergency you must dial 911 in Canada.
  The operator will ask if you want to talk to the Police, Fire Department, or Ambulance.

  
  

  Should I go to a clinic or hospital?

  In Canada, you do not need to visit a hospital to see a doctor. You can make an appointment to see a doctor at a medical clinic. There will be a fee but if you have medical insurance you will be reimbursed.
  

  Hospitals are for emergencies. If you visit a public hospital, there will be a fee and waiting times might be very long. Unless it is an emergency, you will have to wait several hours. Clinics may be less crowded and they usually have shorter waiting times – ask your homestay family.  

  Please call your insurance provider for the details of your insurance coverage. 

  Safety

  General safety tips:

  • Never carry large amounts of money with you, and never carry your wallet in your hand. 
    
  • Never tell anyone your bank account information or PIN number. Avoid using bank machines alone at night.
    
  • If you are going to leave money at home, keep it in a safe, lockable place, like your suitcase.
    
  • Don’t leave any personal belongings unattended, even when you are on campus.
    
  • Pay attention to your surroundings when using mobile phones and electronic devices in public places.
  • Choose your route. Know where you are going and how to get there. Carry a map and bus timetable.
  • Be direct with someone if you have to. If someone is bothering you and you want him or her to leave you alone, make it very clear to that person.
  • If you are threatened, yell loudly for help, and or find a safe place to go and tell a police officer or someone who can help.
    
  • Never get into the car of a stranger.

  At night:

  • Stay in well-lit areas, on main, populated streets.
    
  • When possible, never go out anywhere alone. If you have to go alone, let someone know where you are going and what time you should be back.
    
  • When going to a nightclub or bar, go with friends. It is ok to talk to people, but always be careful. If you want to drink alcohol in Canada you must be over 18 years of age to drink and you must show a government issued ID.
    
  • When taking the bus after 9pm, you can ask the bus driver to stop at the street closest to your destination (between bus stops). 
  • Know how to get home. Know when the last bus leaves. 
  • Never fall asleep on public transport.
• Santé Montréal URL

  Restricted Not available unless: Your City/town is Montreal

  Click here to consult Santé Montréal to determine if you should visit a clinic or hospital in Montreal.

• Walk-in Medical Clinics Toronto URL

  Restricted Not available unless: Your City/town is Toronto

  Click here for a list of walk-in medical clinics in Toronto.

• Walk-in Medical Clinics Vancouver URL

  Restricted Not available unless: Your City/town is Vancouver

  Click here for a list of walk-in medical clinics in Vancouver.