Derry Health And Safety

There are no specific health risks associated with travel to Northern Ireland and food and water can be considered safe. It is generally safe to travel throughout Ireland, although travellers are advised to take special care of their personal belongings in crowded places where pick-pocketing is often reported.

Safety

Use a handbag or shoulder bag that can be held securely. Mind your bag when in crowded streets, shops or when having a meal or a drink. When visiting the city centre area, park your car in one of the controlled car parks and retain the parking ticket on your person. Always lock your car securely when leaving it unattended, even for brief periods. When checking into your accommodation, ask the receptionist about secure car parking.

Derry has developed a reputation as a place with high levels of alcohol-fuelled violence, at weekends in particular. This reputation has some justification, but it is no worse here than the drunken brawling you will find in so many town centres throughout the UK and Ireland. Being drawn into such confrontations is usually easily avoided by staying away from certain areas when the pubs and clubs are emptying out at the end of the night.

Use your common sense when out for the evening and you will be unlikely to run into any trouble. If you find yourself in an establishment with a high proportion of drunken, young men, you might wish to consider moving on somewhere else. Visitors would be well advised to avoid the area around Shipquay Street at closing time.

Health

There are no known health issues to be concerned about. However, those who suffer from hay fever may want to stay away from the Emerald Isle during springtime, when everything is in full bloom.

Travel insurance

The British National Health Service is excellent; emergency treatment is free to visitors, but charges are made for routine medical care. A number of countries have reciprocal health agreements with the UK including Australia, New Zealand and EU countries. Visitors from other countries including Canada, South Africa and the US are advised to take out good medical insurance.