Be Safe in Birmingham

In most cases, downtown Birmingham is a safe place for visitors, and you won't feel threatened on the streets during the daylight hours. Even so, as with all major cities, the climate changes after-hours and it never hurts to practice extra caution to safeguard yourself and your belongings.

Safety

Birmingham has gained some notoriety as one of the more dangerous cities in the US, though the vast majority of the crime takes place outside of the downtown district and is not aimed at tourists. All the same, visitors should take care to guard their cash and belongings. It's always best to travel in groups, especially after dark, and to stick to the main, well-lit streets.

Unfortunately, there has been a recent increase in armed robberies, particularly in the Five Points historic district, which is also a popular night and weekend spot. To avoid problems, take care to conceal your belongings. Try not to advertise large amounts of cash when paying for goods. Visitors carrying handbags would do well to keep the strap over the opposite shoulder to the hip that the bag rests on.

Emergency services:  911

Health

Other than the potential for getting robbed, Birmingham doesn't pose many threats to tourists. Health threats are not a major risk, as the water is safe to drink and all restaurants are required to conform to rigorous food hygiene standards. If however you should happen to become ill for any reason, you will want to have the necessary travel insurance to cover any medical costs incurred while travelling as well as to insure that you receive proper care at the time you're admitted.

St Vincent's Hospital: +1 205 939 7100