Settling In 113Although they are not paid a
salary, fire fighters receive other
forms of compensation, for
example, meals or shelter. Fire
departments are funded by the
State, by members’ contributions, by public donations and by
revenue from lotteries that by law must contribute a certain
portion to charities, etc. However, most units run on very
tight budgets, so feel free to donate!
DRIVING
Driving in Santiago and along the Pan American Highway can
be a harrowing experience. The number of cars on Chilean
roads has increased dramatically over the past 15 years as
Chileans have become more affluent. This sudden increase
in new drivers combined with bad habits, poorly marked
lanes and some questionable road signs can make driving
in Santiago difficult. Once you are familiar with the city and
with driving patterns commuting should get easier.
One of the biggest problems in Chile for foreigners is
that cars share the road with pedestrians, old trucks, carts,
Street vendors often ply their goods on busy street corners to motorists
stopped in traffi c.
Most gas stations in Chile are
still full service, so a small tip
should be given to the gas
station attendant.