Be Safe in Austin

Safety is not a high concern for travellers in the US, though it is important to exercise caution when alone in city streets at night and to seek local advice regarding any areas that should be avoided. Road safety is good and you should follow normal precautions when driving.

Though you will receive emergency medical treatment if necessary, you will also be billed heavily for any treatment, due to the high cost of medical care in the US. It is essential that you invest in adequate travel insurance before travelling to Austin or any other part of America.

Safety

Austin is generally a safe city, and it has a large and prominent police presence on the streets. The central entertainment district around 6th Street is especially well-patrolled at night and trouble is quickly dealt with, thereby providing a safe and secure area to enjoy a night out. However, Austin’s police have received bad publicity for being overly aggressive, so it’s wise to steer clear of any trouble.

Flooding can be a significant problem during periods of heavy rain and some streets in Austin can become entirely submerged. These streets are marked as 'low water crossings' and should be avoided during flooding. It’s important not to drive or walk across moving water in these circumstances; ask for local advice if flooding does occur. Every year several people drown when they are swept away in flooded streets.

Emergency services: 911

Health

As medical care is extremely expensive in the US, it’s highly recommended that you take out adequate travel insurance before visiting Austin. Hospitals and medical facilities in Texas are excellent and emergency medical treatment is also of a very high standard. In the event of an emergency, you will receive treatment, but you will also receive a large bill afterwards.

Emergency services: 911