Safety on the Street

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home.

Be especially cautious in or avoid areas where you are likely to be victimized, such as crowded subways, train stations, elevators, tourist sites, market places, festivals and marginal areas of cities.

Beware especially of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will jostle you, or ask you for directions or the time, or point to something spilled on your clothing, or distract you by creating a disturbance.

A child or even a woman carrying a baby can be a pickpocket. Beware of groups of vagrant children who create a distraction while picking your pocket.

Generally, here are a few other tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable experience abroad:

• Don't use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly-lit streets.
• Try not to travel alone at night.
• Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.
• Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments.
• Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers.
• Beware of strangers who approach you, offering bargains or to be your guide.
• Know how to use a pay telephone and have the proper change or token on hand.
• Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers.
• Try to seem purposeful when you move about.
• Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can signal your need for help, the police, or a doctor.
• Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
• When possible, ask directions only from individuals in authority.
• Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going.

And above all, if you are confronted, don't fight back. Give up your valuables. Your money and passport can be replaced, but you cannot.

(Adapted from the Department of State Publication 10942 Bureau of Consular Affairs.)