Crimes and accidents happen anywhere; London is not an exemption. Nevertheless, the capital remains relatively safer than other tourist destinations out there. You can get a sense of security from the responsive and skilled police force that they have.
Even you are at your holiday apartments in London, you still need to do precautions to ensure you won’t end up as a victim. These precautions are as follows:
1. Memorize the contact information of the local authorities
When an emergency strikes, dial 112 or 999 right away. An ambulance, the police, or the fire department will respond as soon as possible. Don’t worry about the call’s cost because it’s free of charge.
Remember that the aforementioned numbers are for emergency situations only. As for crimes that don’t require urgent medical attention or police response, you should call 101 instead. Examples include theft or property damage that already happened.
2. Know your routes
Mobile apps make it easier to know where you’re currently at, what route you’re supposed to take, and what kinds of landmarks you should look for. Take advantage of these but make sure you also keep a mental record and a travel journal.
Moreover, avoid looking like a confused tourist. You’ll just attract panhandlers and muggers. If you forget about your route, walk confidently and enter an establishment. From there, you can ask the storekeeper for clarifications. If you see an officer, you can go directly to him for your inquiries.
3. Hold or carry your bag at all times
As for your luggage, leave it on your hotel room right after you arrived. Keep valuables in a safe provided by the management.
For your regular bag, you can fill it with your touring essentials such as your wallet, travel documents, camera, and power bank. Pay attention to your bag, especially if you’re in a crowded place.
But even when there aren’t many people around, you should still be mindful of your bag. In case you forget it, someone may assume it contains explosives. You should also think the same way when you see an unattended bag or package.
Some restaurants have underside clips which you can use to secure your hidden bag. While they’re useful, you shouldn’t depend on them alone when it comes to safekeeping your belongings.
4. Don’t just accept offers from strangers
A London getaway isn’t complete without a visit on a pub. Regardless of your orientation though, be careful when a stranger offers you a drink. You can’t be sure if the cocktail isn’t laced with drugs.
5. Leave your headphones in your bag.
Being alert at all times remains the best tip to keep yourself secured wherever you go. However, listening to music or podcast prompts you to pay less attention to your surroundings, making you prone to unwanted incidents.
6. Manage your money wisely.
Search for a nearby ATM beforehand. It should be well-lit. Make sure there are no signs of double keypads. Avoid putting any value on any atm’s part. Withdraw just the right amount for a day’s expenses.
7. Triple-check your hotel before booking accommodation.
Don’t just dwell on the distance or cost when shopping for accommodation. See if there are complaints against the management or workers. More importantly, make sure to book a stay at an aparthotel in Central London and not in a shady neighborhood.
No matter how prepared you are, unexpected events may still happen during your trip. However, managing the consequences won’t be as stressful as figuring out what to do when you’re unprepared.
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