Safety planning in Bhutan combines disaster management with crime prevention and emergency response. Relevant hazards include earthquakes, flash floods, river floods, glacial lake outburst floods, landslides, storms, forest fires and building fires. National bodies coordinate with Dzongkhag, Gewog and Thromde authorities, and local measures depend on the hazard and available capacity. Crime levels are low overall, but theft, fraud, violence, drug-related crime and online fraud remain relevant. The Royal Bhutan Police receive crime reports, and 113 is the emergency number when someone faces immediate danger. Bhutan recorded 2,476 criminal incidents in 2024. A practical safety plan therefore needs both an emergency response for physical hazards and a clear way to report crime or seek police help.
Safety in Bhutan
Safety in Bhutan includes protection from natural disasters, fires, crime and online fraud. Disaster planning covers warnings, preparedness, evacuation, emergency assistance and recovery, while the Royal Bhutan Police handle reports of crime and immediate danger. Earthquakes, floods, landslides and fires require different responses from theft, violence or fraud.
Tip
Treat safety in Bhutan as two linked preparations: one for local hazards and one for crime or fraud. Prioritize the response that matches your immediate risk, keep local authority instructions accessible, and use the Royal Bhutan Police and 113 when police help is needed or someone faces immediate danger.