Rhodes Health & Safety

When travelling to any unfamiliar environment it is important to stay alert to issues of Health and Safety. As with many other famous tourist destinations, Greece still has aspects that could be considered potentially hazardous! To ensure that you are well prepared for your holiday here are a few points which may help.

Although a member of the EU, not all official health and safety guidelines have filtered through to the more remote areas of Greece and her islands. The same safety standards will not apply as with the rest of the European Union (and certainly not the UK). For those who are aware of this and do not expect the same standards, there are not significant risks - the Greeks have survived quite successfully for years and will no doubt continue to do so!

Rhodes food and drink

Water is a precious commodity anywhere in the world and Greece is no exception. Whilst the water is perfectly safe to drink in most areas it is always advisable to have a stock of bottled water at your disposal. Some islands have no natural  supply and rely on tankers to bring in all their water needed. Breaks in the water supply are common for various reasons, usually when you have just soaped your body or washed your hair so leaving a few bottles of water in the sun will ensure a warm rinse if this occassion arises! As with anywhere in the world, use water respectfully.

There is an abundance of fresh produce grown all over Greece. Each area has its own specialities derived from the fresh produce readily available in that specific area. Fresh fish, meat, fruit, vegetables and lashings of olive oil make the basis of one of the best diets in the world. The advent of mass tourism has  opened  the market to imports of packaged and frozen goods so that pretty much any type of food is now available. Do not confuse these, or some of the more mundane and obviously frozen produce, with the real Greek produce. It may not look like the perfectly produced produce stocked by your local supermarket at home, but you can gaurentee it will be fresher, probably more organic and much, much tastier. Always wash fruit and vegetables carefully and check sell-by dates on packaged goods bought in local shops and markets.

Greek wine has come a long way in the past few years. The days of Domestica (and crashing hangovers!) have given way to a wide selection of excellently produced wines from all over Greece. However, a combination of alcohol and sunshine is dangerous, beware of this and apply moderation to any intake of alcohol especially when driving.

Rhodes driving

Above all...don't forget to drive on the right! Road surfaces are notoriously poor and roaming livestock are a natural occurence and potential hazard. Avoid accidents by keeping speeds low and your eyes peeled! Speed cameras and spot checks are also now quite frequent in the summer months, so watch you speed , wear your safety belt or helmet and DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE.

Rhodes swimming and sunbathing

The beaches and crystal clear waters of the Aegean are perfect for swimming and sunbathing and in order to get the most from your holiday by avoiding discomfort and misfortune take a few easy precautions.

• Always use a strong enough sunscreen and re-apply frequently.
• Stay in the shade when the sun is at it's strongest.
• Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated.
• Be aware of any strong currents if swimming out to sea.
• Ask about the safety of the beaches in terms of jellyfish, urchins, sharp rocks etc.
• If swimming in a secluded location, make sure somebody knows where you are going!

Few swimming pools have covers, fencing or life rings. We advise that all those using swimming pools should take extra care and that children should always be supervised.

Rhodes electrical and plumbing

Voltage in Greece is 220-240 volts AC. Bring 2 pin plug adaptors for appliances you bring with you on holiday and check that the voltage is correct. The electricity supply can be sporadic, especially during the height of the summer season . Hotels are more likely to have private generators than self-catered accommodation and villas and therefor a supply of candles is a good idea! A small torch is also a good idea for navigating ones way around a dimly lit village or resort. 

There is very little main drainage in Greece and plumbing systems drain away to septic tanks or cess pits. Although alien to many, the small bins next to the loos are an absolute necessity and unless one wishes to experience the even more unpleasant consequences of a blocked up cess pit, it is advisable to use them! DO NOT DISPOSE OF PAPER SANITARY  PRODUCTS DOWN THE LOO.

Rhodes animals and wildlife

Greece has a wealth of indigenous animals both wild and domestic. All animals, whether docile looking or not, should be treated with due respect and it is advised not to handle any animal unless you know it's history! Donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens, dogs and cats are widespread. Any disturbance coming from a crowing cockerel, braying donkey or barking dog should be taken as part of the local atmosphere as any complaints to the locals will probably fall on deaf ears. Dogs and cats are naturally skinnier than their northern counterparts, do not presume that  this is a sign of ill treatment or neglect, dogs are used for hunting and cats for vermin control, often feeding them with tinned animal food will be more detrimental to their well being. If allergic to cats and/or dogs check that your accommodation does not have any resident pets.

Lizards and geckos are an intrinsic part of the Greek scenery during the summer months and are generally harmless. Snakes and scorpions are present but less evident and care should be taken if walking and exploring not to disturb these creatures in their natural habitat. Stout walking boots and socks are a good idea for ramblers! 

Insects such as mosquitoes, ants and cockroaches are unavoidable in any mediterranean climate and present no great threat. Being well prepared with repellants and sting/bite creams to deal with any minor problems is a good precaution. Make sure that rubbish is frequently removed from your accommodation and surfaces are clear of crumbs and spills.