Security advice | Onward travel and getting around

Taxis and minicabs

• Use only licensed/regulated companies.
• Ask local contacts/hotel staff about any different tariff levels (for different times of day).
• Ask your contacts or hotel to recommend a reliable minicab company. On ordering, ask for the vehicle registration number and the driver's name. Do not get into a minicab that you have not ordered.
• In unmetered taxis, agree the fare before starting the journey. Hotel staff or local contacts will be able to advise on appropriate fares.
• If you are unable to communicate with the driver, ask someone to give him instructions or write down the address. If possible, ask a local colleague write down important addresses in the local language, and carry them at all times.
• Sit in the rear of the taxi. Always wear a seat belt. Do not discuss personal details with the driver.
• If you feel uneasy with the driving or the route (or the driver), instruct the driver to stop at the first secure or busy place.
• Do not display large amounts of cash when paying.

Rental cars

• Use a trustworthy local driver, especially if you are new to a country. The driver should know areas to avoid and be able to carry out basic maintenance.
• If possible, select an older, more basic vehicle to avoid attracting attention. Thieves may favour particular models; local contacts should know which ones.
• Choose a vehicle with robust locks and central locking, a lockable fuel cap, a front seat passenger rear-view mirror, and vehicle alarm.
• Make sure your vehicle is appropriate for the local conditions.
• Use a reliable company offering 24-hour emergency service, and ensure that you have the contact details for the service.
• Ensure that you have an inflated spare tyre that you know how to change, a maker's toolkit; and appropriate insurance, and that any security equipment is functioning.

Driving

• Keep all doors locked and windows closed, particularly when stationary.
• Keep items of value, such as briefcases or cell phones, out of sight. Ideally place them by your feet: do not leave on an empty seat.
• Keep a good distance away from the vehicle in front (at least half a car's length when in traffic, more at speed) to give room for manoeuvre in the event of trouble.
• Be alert to ploys such as cars that lightly bump you, bogus accidents or roadblocks. Drive on and notify the police when it is safe to stop.
• Avoid driving alone, especially at night.
• Be especially vigilant at vulnerable points, such as road junctions and traffic lights, especially if you see suspicious persons loitering in the area.
• Ignore beggars or street vendors who approach you or your vehicle.

Parking

• Park in an area monitored by security personnel and illuminated at night.
• If secure garaging is not available, park in an area that is overlooked, well-lit and that offers no hiding place for an attacker.
• If your car is parked in an insecure place, and has been unsupervised, approach with caution and walk past if suspicious persons are nearby. Approach the vehicle with your keys to hand.
• Set the alarm system whenever the vehicle is parked.

Driving and the law

• Carry your driving licence, vehicle registration papers and insurance certificate.
• Be familiar with traffic laws and traffic accident procedures.
• Do not drink and drive.
• If involved in a serious accident, keep calm but be aware that onlookers are likely to side with the local person. In some places, angry crowds can gather quickly: it may be advisable to continue to the nearest police station to report the accident.
• When dealing with the police, do not sign any documents until you know what they say, even if this means waiting for a translator. If police are unwilling to find a translator, insist politely, but firmly. Inform your embassy.
• Police in some countries may demand cash as a fine for a ‘traffic violation', which may or may not have occurred. Insisting on a receipt might deter casual requests for bribes.

On foot

• Ask your host or hotel if it's OK to walk around – during daylight or after dark.
• Ask the concierge about reliable transport and areas to avoid. Obtain a local map and mark these areas, the location your hotel and embassy/consulate. Carry the map and a list of important telephone numbers, especially at night.
• Carry only what you need for the day: keep valuables, such as wallet or purse, in an inside pocket. Separate items of value. It is useful to have a small amount of money – or even a wallet with expired cards – in an accessible pocket that can be handed over to a mugger.
• Avoid walking in deserted areas or along dark streets, especially when on your own or in unfamiliar areas.
• If it is essential to walk in or through a trouble-spot, do not go alone. If you have any concerns, leave the area immediately.
• Never accept a lift from a stranger.
• Be wary of strangers who offer to accompany you in an unfamiliar area.