Be Safe in Charleston

There are few health risks in Charleston that should cause visitors concern, with food being prepared and cooked in hygienic conditions, and the risk of contagious diseases being very low. With regards to safety, visitors will also find the city a safe place to visit as long as they exercise a few common sense procedures to minimise the risk of becoming a victim of petty crime.

Health

Medical facilities in Charleston are good, but visitors are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance prior to leaving home to ensure that all emergencies are covered. Minor treatment and pharmaceuticals must be paid for upfront. Medical advice is given free-of-charge at pharmacies, which are referred to as ‘drug stores’, while a doctor’s advice should be sought for more serious complaints.

Visitors do not need any vaccinations for travel to the US, but making sure you are up-to-date with basic inoculations is wise. Out of the city, in the marshlands, mosquitoes can be a pest therefore we recommend that you use an insect repellent to deter them. Sun cream is also advised, as is drinking plenty of water; tap water is safe to drink.

Emergency services: 911

Safety

Charleston does not have a reputation for crime, but visitors should exercise caution with regards to their personal possessions, as pickpockets have been known to operate at tourist hotspots. Keep bags and wallets close, and don’t flash expensive jewellery or money in the street. Use a hotel safe for your travel documents.

While most of the busy downtown areas are safe in the evening, it is always better to avoid any poorly lit streets at night and to take a taxi back to your accommodation if you have far to go. There is occasionally some fighting outside some of the livelier bars at night, but you should find that this sort of trouble is easy to avoid. If you do encounter any threats to your safety, the police can assist you.

Police: 911