SAFETY TIPS

Prague is one of the world’s safest and most beautiful cities to visit. There is almost no personal crime (rapes, mugging, armed robbery) and yet the instances of property crime (pickpockets and theft) are quite high. Tourists are a natural target of such thieves and with an awareness of the circumstances, your visit can be enjoyable and incident-free.

• NEVER leave a cell-phone, camera, laptop or purse on a table while visiting the restroom or other tables. This is true even if you’re sitting at the table if you’re next to a doorway.

• NEVER leave a cell phone or wallet in the pocket of a jacket draped over the back of your chair or on a restaurant hook.

• NEVER keep valuables in the outside zippered compartments of your pack, particularly while standing in crowded trams or metros. Tourists sitting near the exit doors are particularly vulnerable. Note: Cargo pants with Velcro closures are a great idea.

• NEVER allow yourself to become surrounded by groups in apparent argument---this is one of the classic pickpocket or purse theft situations---a pushing, shoving, argumentative group often exists solely to distract, while your belongings are lifted. Typically, one fellow from the group blocks your way, the tram/bus door and while you are stopped, trying to get through, someone else is reaching for your back pocket or bag. In such a situation, hold on to your possessions and bull your way through, even if you have to call for help. You’re not in danger, just a convenient target. Wenceslas Square is particularly known for this late in the evening.

• NEVER follow a “youngster with problems,” streetwalker or “person in need” into a doorway, alley, side street or hotel room.

• ALWAYS be aware of your possessions and surroundings. No need to be paranoid, just aware. When sitting, keep your backpack between your feet or on your lap, always return your wallet to your bag or front pocket after paying etc.

• SELDOM take a taxi from Old Town Square or Wenceslas Square. If you need a taxi, have the pub, restaurant or hostel call AAA Taxi (very reliable) or, at the very least, tell the taxi driver where you want to go and negotiate the price ahead of time. Make sure the meter is running.

• THINK before you have too much to drink. Drunks attract thieves.