Be Safe in Cincinnati

Recently, Cincinnati has been publicised as an unsafe place to visit because of the aftermath of the 2001 riots. There is a fear of rampant crime, which has been exaggerated by the media and blown out of proportion. That being said, crime does exist, but it is no more common than in any major city, with pickpockets and bag-snatchers taking advantage of the vulnerable. It is important to use common sense when travelling here, just like you would anywhere else in the world.

Safety

The riots of 2001 began when an unarmed black man was shot by a white police officer. The police force became less willing to protect to the best of their ability for fear of being suspended or dismissed and because of this, certain violent crimes saw huge increases in their occurrences.

However, the tension has died down over the last couple of years, as has crime. The downtown area and tourist hotspots were never really affected by the riots and have always been extremely safe

As with many cities, Cincinnati’s crime is largely confined to specific neighbourhoods. For example, Walnut Hills is known as having a high homicide rate and should never be visited if you are alone at night. Using common sense will help to prevent you from becoming a victim of petty crime, as will being aware of your surroundings.

Police: 911

Health

There are no vaccinations required for travel to the USA, but it is advisable to make sure you are up-to-date with standard vaccinations such as tetanus. There is no risk of mosquito-borne diseases, but mosquitoes do exist, especially in the woodlands, so it is important to always carry repellent with you.

Hygiene standards in most restaurants are excellent and stomach bugs and food poisoning are rare, but should you develop a minor ailment, pharmacists across the city will be able to treat you and give advice.

If you are in an unfortunate accident or become ill while you are visiting Cincinnati, you will find yourself in excellent hands, as the city is home to impressive medical facilities. Emergency treatment will be given immediately and you will be billed later, but should you need minor treatment, you will have to pay upfront, making medical insurance vital.

University Hospital: +1 513 584 1000