So, you’ve decided to take the considerable step of moving to a new city. How exciting! While you’re occupied with packing your boxes and saying goodbye to your old digs, it’s important to ensure you’re prepared for whatever life throws your way in your new locale.
Fortunately, one of the easiest – yet often overlooked – steps is ensuring you have the right numbers saved in your pocket. From emergencies to everyday accidents, already having these digits on your phone will save you the hassle and stress of finding them when you need them.
Without further ado, here are 10 numbers you should have in your phone when you move to a new city.
1. Emergency Services
Emergencies can happen at any time in any place, which is why you should always be well-prepared. If you are relocating within Australia, you’ll already know the emergency number for the police, fire brigade, and medical services is 000. However, if you’re moving abroad, learn the emergency number for your new city. Indeed, you will hopefully never have to ring these services, but knowing what it is provides peace of mind in your new surroundings.
Additionally, besides emergency service digits, it’s also a good idea to save your local police station’s number. If you’re reporting a crime, or in a dangerous, non-life threatening scenario, you can access help quickly.
2. Dentist
A toothache can make even the sunniest day turn grey. Whether you’re looking for an Epping dental clinic in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, or battling Google Translate to discover the word for ‘dentist’, having the number of a trustworthy dental practice in your phone can be a lifesaver — or maybe even a tooth-saver! Inquire about recommendations from your neighbours, coworkers, or weekday morning barista.
Top Tip: Don’t wait for an infection or other problem to meet your dentist. Book yourself in for a general check-up, so you’ll feel less intimidated if you do need to return for some dental treatment. It can also be worthwhile to save the number of other dentists in surrounding suburbs, just in case you can’t get an appointment immediately at your nearest one.
3. General Practitioner (GP)
Just like finding a dentist, you’ll need to be on the lookout for a new general practitioner (GP) when you move to a new city. After all, your general practitioner usually serves as the first contact point if you have any non-emergency health problem, from an annoying cold to managing chronic illnesses or conditions.
So, take the time to research local doctors and clinics, and be sure to factor in proximity to your home, office hours, and online patient reviews. Regular checkups will put you in charge of your health and ensure you address any issues before they escalate. Plus, knowing that you have a reliable doctor on call can provide reassurance as you navigate your new life.
4. Local Hospital & Emergency Room
Hopefully, you won’t need to visit the emergency room anytime soon, but the truth is that life is unpredictable and accidents and sudden illnesses can happen. Thus, it’s essential to make sure you know the location of the nearest hospital or emergency room in your new city, as well as their contact number. In case of an emergency, having the hospital’s number readily available can save precious time and help you receive the care you need without delay.
Additionally, if you have certain medical conditions or allergies, note them down in your phone’s Medical ID. This way, if you’re ever found unconscious or unresponsive, medical services and healthcare professionals will be able to access the information quickly.
5. Veterinarian
Our furry friends are cherished, beloved family members, and their health is just as important as ours. So, before you make the move, spend some time researching licensed veterinary practices in your local community and be sure to save their number in your phone. Whether your pet falls ill, suffers from an injury, or simply needs a routine check-up, keep a veterinarian’s number in your back pocket for when you need it.
Top Tip: It’s also a good idea to note down the number of the nearest animal emergency hospital. A 24-hour animal clinic or pet hospital can be a real saviour in critical situations. Whether it’s an injury in the middle of the night or an illness that strikes after hours, knowing where to turn to for urgent veterinary care will ensure your beloved pet receives prompt attention.
6. Car Mechanic
Getting stuck with car troubles is the last thing you need when you’re in a new city with no clue where to find a decent auto repair shop. It could be a flat tyre, a dying car battery, or simply your yearly car servicing. Knowing who to call can save you boatloads of time and stress.
Ask your local community, or hop on to Google to check out reviews, and find reliable car mechanics in your area. Having their number handy means you can quickly get back on the road and continue exploring your new hood without skipping a beat.
7. Plumber
Next, getting the contact information of a reliable local plumber should be a priority when moving to a new city. The potential plumbing emergencies are vast, ranging from a leaky kitchen faucet to a full-blown burst pipe, and the last thing you want is to be scrambling to find a good tradee amid a serious plumbing emergency.
Take the time to look into local plumbing companies or independent contractors. It’s also a good idea to inquire about their availability for emergency services, just in case you find yourself in the midst of a plumbing fiasco after-hours, or on a public holiday.
8. Electrician
Whether you’re plagued with power outages and faulty wiring, or simply looking to install new fixtures in your abode, you want to have an experienced licensed electrician you know you can call.
Remember — electrical issues are not only inconvenient but also hazardous if not addressed promptly and correctly. From diagnosing and repairing electrical problems to installations and upgrades, a qualified electrician has the expertise to handle a wide range of tasks safely and efficiently.
9. Local Handyperson
Unless you’re a DIY pro, there are many tasks you’ll need a professional’s help to accomplish. It might be for assembling your new furniture, mounting your TV, or hanging up the artwork that will brighten up your new home. Having the right number saved in your phone can be a real lifesaver when you need things done around the house.
Whether it’s a small repair or a larger home improvement project, a skilled worker can save you time and hassle by tackling the job quickly and efficiently. So, research local ‘handy people’ in your area and save their contact details so you’re prepared for any household repairs, renovations or odd jobs that come your way.
10. Takeaway Restaurants
Last but not least, moving to a new city can be pretty darn exhausting, and the last thing you want to have to do is prepare dinner after a long day of unpacking boxes. That’s where knowing the digits to your local takeaway restaurants can come in handy.
Having the numbers of a few reputable local takeaway spots or quick service restaurants saved in your phone will allow you to sit down to a delicious meal without having to leave the comfort of your new home. And in those moments when you need a comforting pick-me-up, they’ll be there waiting for you.
And there’s our list of 10 must-have phone numbers to save in your phone when you’re moving to a new city. New beginnings, fresh chances, and opportunities. Strolling down streets you’ve never been before — spreading your wings can be an incredibly thrilling adventure.
From emergency services to dentists, veterinarians, and electricians, save these contacts so you can have them readily available, and be prepared for whatever life throws your way. Then, you can get on with settling in and making yourself feel at home in your new city.
