Tips on personal safety in Dublin

This entry is dedicated to the safety of tourists in Dublin. Considering the escalating crime rate in the city, here are several precautions to keep in mind if you want to enjoy your visit and avoid suffering from crimes:

Hold you handbag or satchel firmly and securely, and observe it closely in crowded streets, cafes, eateries and shops. If you are in downtown Dublin, park your car in a secure parking zone and keep the parking ticket with you. Needless to say, always lock your car when you get out. Inquire about safe parking areas at the reception desk at the hotel where you are staying. If you are traveling in a group, divide the money amongst yourselves – that way you’ll have a chance to keep the better part if one of you gets mugged. Photocopy all your travel documents and keep the copies and originals separate. Do not leave valuables exposed in your car or luggage – take special care to keep this in mind. Do not give money to beggars, because that way you encourage them and they’ll keep at you. Camp only in approved areas, and not in open or public areas.
If you nonetheless become the victim of a crime, immediately report it. The Gardai will provide you with a translator and help you file a report at the Garda station. You will also be referred to the Tourist Assistance Service, which can provide emotional and practical support, arrange accommodation if necessary, refer you to an embassy, help replace stolen travel tickets, help with language difficulties, deal with medical needs and more.
There are several organizations in Ireland with branches in Dublin, dealing with crime prevention. These include Neighborhood Watch, Women’s Aid and more. The Neighbourhood Watch crime prevention programme creates partnerships between the police and the community with the aim to prevent crime and create better living conditions. The program helps ease the anxiety felt by community members. Women’s Aid is a voluntary establishment in support of women and children suffering from any form of abuse – be it physical, sexual or emotional. It helps enact political, social and cultural changes by means of political campaigning approaches.