Guidance: Stay Safe in the City

The last Fridays before Christmas can be some of the busiest due to Christmas parties and celebrations. Most people enjoy a night out in the town, but the inclement weather and larger crowds can create some new and difficult problems.

Most UK cities are very safe places, but it is always worth taking sensible precautions to ensure your own personal well-being.

Here are a few tips to enjoying time in the city safely, whether you're a first-time visitor, regular traveller or local.

Public Transport Updates

Whether you are travelling somewhere new, or are unsure how the weather is affecting public transport, real-time information is readily available.

National Rail Enquiries' free app provides real-time train information for the UK, and the Traveline app shows live bus departures.

Please remember that any inclement weather is likely to disrupt public transport services.

Personal Safety

Plan to stay safe this Christmas with these easy steps:

• ​Let someone know where you are going and what time to expect you back.
  
• Keep your valuables out of sight and secure.
  
• When out and about, stay alert to your surroundings.
  
• If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Trust your instincts.
  
• If provoked, walk away. It's the smart thing to do.
  
• Always use a taxi or licensed mini-cab.
  

Top Tips for Staying Safe in the City

Christmas is a time to celebrate and have fun. It's a time when people like to relax, visit family and friends and spend time at organised events. However it only takes a few minutes to think about your safety and make sure you have considered basic precautions.

Here are some tips for safety when out and about:

Parking:

• Park in well-lit areas, near CCTV cameras, avoiding lanes and alleyways.
• Most vehicle crime is preventable. It can take as little as 10 seconds for a thief to steal something from your car. If at all possible, leave nothing on view.
  
• Remove essentials such as mobile phones, tablets, sat navs etc. which can encourage opportunistic theft.
• Hide loose change and small valuables - reduce clear opportunities.
• Simple checks every time - close all windows, make sure doors are locked
  
  

• ​Plan ahead, particularly if you are going to an area you don't know.
• Let someone know where you're going and what time you expect to be back.
  
• Avoid parking next to overgrown trees and bushes or other objects that could conceal someone's presence.