The first and most crucial step in preparing for a trip to French Guiana is to understand its unique identity. Officially, this is France. As an overseas department and a region of France, it is part of the European Union. This means the infrastructure, laws, and healthcare system have a European foundation. However, step outside your hotel in Cayenne, and you are undeniably in South America, on the edge of the world’s largest rainforest.<\/p>\n
This duality shapes every aspect of travel here. While you’ll use the Euro and hear French spoken, the safety challenges are not those of Paris or Lyon. They are a blend of urban South American realities and the profound, untamed wilderness of the Amazon. Acknowledging this blend is key to navigating the territory safely.<\/p>\n
A Guiana Francesa n\u00e3o \u00e9 um mon\u00f3lito; os riscos que voc\u00ea enfrenta dependem inteiramente de onde voc\u00ea est\u00e1. O pa\u00eds pode ser amplamente dividido em tr\u00eas zonas distintas, cada uma com suas pr\u00f3prias considera\u00e7\u00f5es de seguran\u00e7a.<\/p>\n
This is where the vast majority of the population lives and where most travelers spend their time. In these urban centers, the primary safety concerns are related to petty crime. Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded markets, and car break-ins are common. It is wise to exercise the same “street smarts” you would in any major city: be aware of your surroundings, don’t display wealth, and take precautions after dark.<\/p>\n
Uma vez que voc\u00ea deixa a costa, a paisagem e os riscos mudam drasticamente. O interior \u00e9 uma vasta extens\u00e3o de floresta tropical, acess\u00edvel quase exclusivamente por pequenos avi\u00f5es ou por longas viagens fluviais em uma canoa motorizada, ou pirogue<\/em>. Aqui, o crime \u00e9 uma preocupa\u00e7\u00e3o muito baixa. Os perigos s\u00e3o predominantemente ambientais e relacionados \u00e0 sa\u00fade. Se perder \u00e9 um risco de vida, e a selva abriga cobras venenosas, aranhas e insetos portadores de doen\u00e7as. Navegar neste ambiente com seguran\u00e7a \u00e9 imposs\u00edvel sem um guia local experiente.<\/p>\n Localizado perto de Kourou<\/strong>, este \u00e9 um dos centros espaciais mais ativos do mundo. Opera como um enclave de alta seguran\u00e7a. A seguran\u00e7a aqui \u00e9 uma quest\u00e3o de protocolo. Os visitantes devem seguir todas as diretrizes oficiais, respeitar as \u00e1reas restritas e estar preparados para encerramentos de estradas e postos de controle, especialmente nos dias que antecedem um lan\u00e7amento de foguete. Os riscos n\u00e3o s\u00e3o criminais, mas procedimentais.<\/p>\n A successful and safe journey into French Guiana begins long before you board the plane. Proper preparation regarding your health and paperwork is not just recommended; it’s essential for peace of mind and for handling any situation that may arise. This checklist covers the non-negotiable steps to take before your departure.<\/p>\n O ambiente tropical da Guiana Francesa \u00e9 o lar de v\u00e1rias doen\u00e7as transmitidas por vetores. Consultar um especialista em medicina de viagens pelo menos 4-6 semanas antes da sua viagem \u00e9 o primeiro passo mais crucial.<\/p>\n Enquanto farm\u00e1cias est\u00e3o dispon\u00edveis em Caiena e Kourou, o acesso a suprimentos m\u00e9dicos torna-se dif\u00edcil ou imposs\u00edvel assim que voc\u00ea se aventura no interior. Um kit pessoal de primeiros socorros bem abastecido \u00e9 um item fundamental de equipamento.<\/p>\n Materiais b\u00e1sicos para cuidados com feridas, incluindo len\u00e7os antiss\u00e9pticos, curativos sortidos e gaze est\u00e9ril. Cortes e arranh\u00f5es menores podem infeccionar rapidamente no clima \u00famido.<\/p><\/li>\n Ter a sua papelada em ordem \u00e9 a base para uma viagem sem stress. Num local remoto como a Guiana Francesa, um seguro robusto n\u00e3o \u00e9 um luxo, mas sim uma necessidade.<\/p>\n Enquanto o fasc\u00ednio do interior amaz\u00f4nico \u00e9 ineg\u00e1vel, a maioria dos viajantes passar\u00e1 um tempo consider\u00e1vel nos centros urbanos costeiras de Caiena, Kourou e Saint-Laurent du Maroni. Essas \u00e1reas, embora ofere\u00e7am infraestrutura e comodidades francesas, tamb\u00e9m apresentam desafios de seguran\u00e7a t\u00edpicos de muitas cidades sul-americanas. Aplicar o bom senso e adotar alguns h\u00e1bitos essenciais permitir\u00e1 que voc\u00ea explore com confian\u00e7a.<\/p>\n No\u00e7\u00f5es Gerais de Sabedoria de Rua<\/p><\/h3>\n A ferramenta de seguran\u00e7a mais eficaz \u00e9 a aten\u00e7\u00e3o. Pequenos crimes, como furtos e roubos de bolsas, podem ocorrer, especialmente em \u00e1reas movimentadas. O objetivo n\u00e3o \u00e9 ser paranoico, mas sim estar presente e atento, tornando-se um alvo menos atraente para ladr\u00f5es oportunistas.<\/p>\n Medidas de seguran\u00e7a proativas para seus bens valiosos podem prevenir estresse e interrup\u00e7\u00f5es significativas em suas viagens. Algumas rotinas simples podem fazer toda a diferen\u00e7a.<\/p>\n Acessar seu dinheiro \u00e9 simples, pois a Guiana Francesa utiliza o Euro, mas \u00e9 prudente ter cautela ao sacar dinheiro.<\/p>\n O interior amaz\u00f4nico \u00e9 o cora\u00e7\u00e3o e a alma da Guiana Francesa, um mundo de biodiversidade deslumbrante, \u00e1rvores antigas e rios sinuosos. Aventurar-se nesta selva \u00e9 uma experi\u00eancia inesquec\u00edvel, mas exige respeito e prepara\u00e7\u00e3o cuidadosa. A selva \u00e9 uma for\u00e7a poderosa e imparcial; sua beleza \u00e9 igualada pelos seus riscos inerentes. A seguran\u00e7a aqui n\u00e3o se trata de evitar a aventura, mas de abra\u00e7\u00e1-la de forma respons\u00e1vel.<\/p>\n The single most important safety decision you will make when exploring the interior is hiring a certified, professional guide. The rainforest is a disorienting, three-dimensional labyrinth where trails can disappear in minutes and every direction looks the same. A guide\u2019s expertise extends far beyond simply knowing the way.<\/p>\n Let us be unequivocal: attempting a self-guided trek into the deep jungle without extensive, specific experience in this environment is not a brave adventure\u2014it is a life-threatening mistake. For first-time travelers, going without a guide is simply not an option.<\/p>\n The jungle is teeming with life, and while most creatures will avoid you, it\u2019s crucial to know how to coexist safely. The primary rule is to look, but never touch or approach wildlife.<\/p>\n Most of the region’s venomous creatures are not aggressive, but accidental encounters can happen. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Wear sturdy, high-ankled, closed-toe boots for protection. A simple but vital habit is to shake out your clothes, towels, and especially your shoes before putting them on to dislodge any creature that may have sought shelter inside.<\/p>\n Rivers are the highways of the interior, and you will likely spend significant time traveling by canoa motorizada<\/strong>, a traditional motorized canoe. Navigating these waters requires local skill.<\/p>\n Manter sua sa\u00fade em um ambiente remoto e \u00famido \u00e9 crucial. Medidas preventivas simples podem fazer a diferen\u00e7a entre uma viagem incr\u00edvel e uma miser\u00e1vel.<\/p>\n Beyond navigating the rainforest and cities, maintaining your health in French Guiana’s tropical environment is paramount. The combination of intense heat, humidity, and different microorganisms requires a proactive approach to what you eat, drink, and how you protect yourself from the elements.<\/p>\n Mosquitos s\u00e3o mais do que apenas um inc\u00f4modo; eles s\u00e3o portadores de doen\u00e7as como dengue, zika e chikungunya, para as quais n\u00e3o existem vacinas. A preven\u00e7\u00e3o diligente \u00e9 sua defesa mais eficaz.<\/p>\n Posicionada perto do equador, a Guiana Francesa experimenta um sol forte e direto. A alta umidade tamb\u00e9m pode mascarar os sinais de desidrata\u00e7\u00e3o, tornando o esgotamento pelo calor um risco real para aqueles n\u00e3o acostumados ao clima.<\/p>\n Enquanto a Guiana Francesa oferece uma cena culin\u00e1ria fascinante, ter cautela com alimentos e \u00e1gua ajuda a prevenir problemas gastrointestinais que podem atrapalhar suas viagens. Uma regra simples geralmente serve bem aos viajantes.<\/p>\n Navegar pela Guiana Francesa oferece uma mistura de infraestrutura de padr\u00e3o europeu e desafios r\u00fasticos do mundo em desenvolvimento. Quer voc\u00ea escolha a independ\u00eancia de um carro alugado ou a experi\u00eancia local de transporte compartilhado, um pouco de prepara\u00e7\u00e3o e aten\u00e7\u00e3o garantir\u00e3o que suas viagens sejam tranquilas e seguras.<\/p>\n Para explorar a faixa costeira entre Caiena, Kourou e Saint-Laurent du Maroni, um carro alugado oferece uma liberdade incompar\u00e1vel. As principais estradas nacionais (a N1 e a N2) s\u00e3o geralmente pavimentadas e bem conservadas, permitindo uma condu\u00e7\u00e3o relativamente simples. No entanto, assim que voc\u00ea se afastar dessas art\u00e9rias principais ou se dirigir para o interior, as condi\u00e7\u00f5es podem mudar dramaticamente.<\/p>\n Tenha em mente os seguintes pontos ao assumir o volante:<\/p>\n For those who prefer not to drive, taxis offer a reliable way to get around. It’s important to understand the two primary types. Official, private taxis can be booked for direct trips and are the best option for airport transfers or late-night travel. Always use clearly marked vehicles or services recommended by your accommodation.<\/p>\n A forma mais comum de viagem intermunicipal \u00e9 o t\u00e1xi-coletivo<\/em><\/strong>. Essas minivans ou carros grandes operam em rotas fixas entre as principais cidades, partindo de uma esta\u00e7\u00e3o designada assim que est\u00e3o cheias. Embora sejam uma forma acess\u00edvel e aut\u00eantica de viajar, podem ficar muito lotados. Se voc\u00ea usar um t\u00e1xi-coletivo<\/em>, mantenha sua mochila ou bolsa no colo e fique atento aos seus pertences pessoais durante toda a viagem.<\/p>\n Even the most meticulously planned journey can have unexpected turns. Being prepared with the right information beforehand can transform a stressful situation into a manageable one. It’s wise to save these contacts in your phone and also keep a physical copy separate from your wallet and passport.<\/p>\n Como departamento ultramarino da Fran\u00e7a, a Guiana Francesa utiliza os n\u00fameros de emerg\u00eancia padr\u00e3o franceses e europeus. Familiarize-se com estes contatos essenciais:<\/p>\n Beyond emergency numbers, a little proactive research can be invaluable. Before your trip, note the address and phone number of your country’s nearest consulate or embassy (likely in a neighboring country like Suriname or Brazil, with consular services covering French Guiana). They are your primary point of contact for lost passports, serious legal issues, or other consular emergencies.<\/p>\n Tamb\u00e9m \u00e9 prudente identificar os principais hospitais nas regi\u00f5es que voc\u00ea visitar\u00e1. As instala\u00e7\u00f5es m\u00e9dicas mais abrangentes est\u00e3o na faixa costeira, com os hospitais prim\u00e1rios localizados em Cayenne<\/strong> (Centre Hospitalier Andr\u00e9e Rosemon) e Kourou<\/strong>. Saber a localiza\u00e7\u00e3o deles pode economizar um tempo crucial em uma situa\u00e7\u00e3o m\u00e9dica.<\/p>\n Discovering you’ve been a victim of theft is distressing, but a clear and immediate response can limit the damage. Follow these two crucial steps:<\/p>\n Mantenha-se seguro na Guiana Francesa! Dicas essenciais para a sua primeira aventura.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"Safety in French Guyana Tips for first time travelers","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","iawp_total_views":45,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3689],"tags":[3846,12430,3851,3432],"article-type":[12364],"collection":[],"country":[3728],"location":[],"class_list":["post-93519","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-travel-tips","tag-destination-guide","tag-french-guyana","tag-practical-information","tag-travel","article-type-trip-planning","country-french-guiana"],"acf":{"article_outline":"## Understanding French Guiana's Unique Safety Context\n### It's France, But It's the Amazon\n{Instruction: Briefly explain its status as an overseas department of France. Emphasize that while it uses the Euro and has French infrastructure, the environment, culture, and safety challenges are distinctly South American.}\n- Currency: Euro (\u20ac)\n- Language: French (official), French Guianese Creole\n- Environment: Predominantly dense Amazonian rainforest\n### Key Regions and Their Safety Profiles\n- **Coastal Strip (Cayenne, Kourou, Saint-Laurent du Maroni):** Where most of the population lives. Higher risk of petty crime, requires urban street smarts.\n- **The Interior (Sa\u00fcl, Maripasoula):** Accessible mainly by air or river. Risks are primarily environmental and health-related, not crime.\n- **Guiana Space Centre (Centre Spatial Guyanais):** High-security area. Follow all official guidelines and be aware of launch-related road closures.\n\n## Pre-Trip Health and Documentation Checklist\n### Essential Vaccinations and Medications\n- **Yellow Fever:** A vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.\n- **Recommended Vaccines:** Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid.\n- **Malaria Prophylaxis:** Consult a doctor as risk varies by region and season.\n- **Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya:** No vaccines available; prevention is key.\n### Packing a Traveler's First-Aid Kit\n- High-DEET or Icaridin-based insect repellent.\n- Antiseptic wipes and bandages.\n- Anti-diarrhea medication.\n- Antihistamines for bites or allergic reactions.\n- Any personal prescription medications.\n### Documents and Insurance\n- **Travel Insurance:** Non-negotiable. Ensure it covers medical evacuation from remote areas.\n- **Passport and Visas:** Check entry requirements (it's part of the EU).\n- **Digital and Physical Copies:** Keep copies of your passport, insurance, and flight details separate from the originals.\n\n## On-the-Ground Safety: Navigating Cities and Towns\n### General Street Smarts\n- **Avoid Ostentatious Displays:** Leave expensive jewelry, watches, and electronics at your accommodation.\n- **Be Aware of Your Surroundings:** Pay attention in crowded areas like markets and bus stations.\n- **Nighttime Precautions:** Stick to well-lit, main streets after dark. Avoid walking alone on beaches or in quiet neighborhoods. Use a taxi for longer distances.\n### Securing Your Belongings\n- **Accommodation:** Use the safe in your hotel room for passports and valuables.\n- **Vehicles:** Never leave anything visible in a parked car. Car break-ins are common.\n- **On Your Person:** Use a money belt or keep wallets in a front pocket. Be cautious with backpacks in crowds.\n### Handling Money and ATMs\n- Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable establishments during daylight hours.\n- Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid your cards being blocked.\n- Carry a mix of cash (Euros) and cards for flexibility.\n\n## Rainforest and Wilderness Safety: Exploring the Interior\n### Why a Certified Guide is Non-Negotiable\n- The rainforest is vast, and it is extremely easy to get lost.\n- Guides are trained in first aid, navigation, and identifying dangerous flora and fauna.\n- {Instruction: Stress that self-guided treks into the deep jungle are life-threatening for inexperienced travelers.}\n### Wildlife and Environmental Hazards\n- **Snakes, Spiders, and Insects:** Never touch or approach wildlife. Wear sturdy, closed-toe boots. Shake out clothes and shoes before putting them on.\n- **River Safety:**\n - Only travel on rivers by *pirogue* (motorized canoe) with reputable operators.\n - Ensure life jackets are provided and worn.\n - Be aware of strong currents and potential hazards like submerged logs.\n### Health and Hygiene in the Jungle\n- **Water:** Never drink untreated water from rivers or streams. Use purification tablets, a filter, or drink sealed bottled water.\n- **Food:** Only eat food prepared by your guide or at trusted lodges.\n- **Cuts and Scratches:** Clean any minor wound immediately and cover it to prevent infection in the humid climate.\n\n## Staying Healthy: Food, Water, and a Tropical Climate\n### Preventing Mosquito-Borne Illnesses\n- **Cover Up:** Wear long-sleeved shirts and long trousers, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.\n- **Use Repellent:** Apply a strong insect repellent to all exposed skin.\n- **Sleep Smart:** Use mosquito nets, especially in more rustic accommodations.\n### Sun and Heat Exposure\n- The equatorial sun is intense. Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and stay hydrated.\n- Pace yourself during physical activities to avoid heat exhaustion.\n### Food and Drink Precautions\n- Stick to bottled water. Avoid ice in drinks if you're unsure of the water source.\n- Eat at busy restaurants where food turnover is high.\n- Be cautious with uncooked salads or unpeeled fruit. \"Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.\"\n\n## Transportation Safety\n### Renting and Driving a Car\n- Roads between main coastal towns are generally well-maintained, but interior roads can be rough or unpaved.\n- Watch for potholes, animals on the road, and unpredictable drivers.\n- Avoid driving long distances at night outside of major urban areas.\n### Taxis and Public Transport\n- Use officially marked taxis or pre-booked services.\n- *Taxis-collectifs* (shared taxis) are a common way to travel between towns but can be crowded. Keep your valuables secure.\n\n## Emergency Contacts and Procedures\n### Key Emergency Numbers\n- **European Emergency Number:** 112 (for any emergency)\n- **SAMU (Medical):** 15\n- **Police \/ Gendarmerie:** 17\n- **Fire Department:** 18\n### Knowing Where to Go\n- Note the address of your country's consulate or embassy.\n- Identify the main hospitals in the areas you'll be visiting (e.g., in Cayenne and Kourou).\n### In Case of Theft\n- Report any theft to the nearest Gendarmerie immediately to get a police report, which you will need for insurance claims.\n- Cancel any stolen credit or debit cards right away.","article_intro":" Dreaming of French Guiana? This vibrant South American jewel offers lush rainforests, rich cultural experiences, and a unique blend of European and Creole influences. But like any adventure to an unfamiliar destination, understanding the local landscape is key to a smooth and enjoyable trip. This article is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge to navigate French Guiana with confidence.<\/p>\n\n We'll dive deep into understanding French Guiana's unique safety context<\/b>, ensuring you're prepared before you even pack your bags. From a crucial pre-trip health and documentation checklist to practical on-the-ground tips for navigating cities and towns, we've got you covered. Get ready to explore French Guiana safely and make unforgettable memories.<\/p>","article_essentials":" French Guiana offers an unparalleled adventure, blending European familiarity with Amazonian wildness. By understanding its unique context and exercising sensible precautions, especially in its coastal hubs, first-time travelers can embrace its wonders with confidence and create unforgettable memories.<\/p>","article_invite_to_share_and_comment":"","article_benchmark_stock":"","article_incorporator":"","destination_description":"","destination_practical_information":"","related_destination":null,"":"","related_zone":null,"related_province":null},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93519","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=93519"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93519\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":93566,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93519\/revisions\/93566"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=93519"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=93519"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=93519"},{"taxonomy":"article-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/article-type?post=93519"},{"taxonomy":"collection","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/collection?post=93519"},{"taxonomy":"country","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/country?post=93519"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildexpedition.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=93519"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}Centro Espacial de Kourou (Centre Spatial Guyanais)<\/h4>\n
Checklist de Sa\u00fade e Documenta\u00e7\u00e3o Pr\u00e9-Viagem<\/h2>\n
Vacinas e Medicamentos Essenciais<\/h3>\n
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Packing a Traveler’s First-Aid Kit<\/h3>\n
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Documentos e Seguros<\/h3>\n
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Seguran\u00e7a no Local: Navegando em Cidades e Vilas<\/h2>\n
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Protegendo Seus Pertences<\/h3>\n
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Handling Money and ATMs<\/h3>\n
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Rainforest and Wilderness Safety: Exploring the Interior<\/h2>\n
Por que um Guia Certificado \u00e9 Inegoci\u00e1vel<\/h3>\n
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Perigos da Vida Selvagem e Ambientais<\/h3>\n
Cobras, Aranhas e Insetos<\/h4>\n
Seguran\u00e7a Fluvial<\/h4>\n
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Sa\u00fade e Higiene na Selva<\/h3>\n
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Sa\u00fade em Dia: Comida, \u00c1gua e um Clima Tropical<\/h2>\n
Preven\u00e7\u00e3o de Doen\u00e7as Transmitidas por Mosquitos<\/h3>\n
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Exposi\u00e7\u00e3o ao Sol e ao Calor<\/h3>\n
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Precau\u00e7\u00f5es com Comida e Bebida<\/h3>\n
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Seguran\u00e7a dos transportes<\/h2>\n
Aluguel e Condu\u00e7\u00e3o de um Carro<\/h3>\n
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T\u00e1xis e Transporte P\u00fablico<\/h3>\n
Contactos de Emerg\u00eancia e Procedimentos<\/h2>\n
N\u00fameros de Emerg\u00eancia Principais<\/h3>\n
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Sabendo Para Onde Ir<\/h3>\n
Em Caso de Roubo<\/h3>\n
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