Be Safe in San Diego

San Diego shouldnt present any problems to your safety or health. However, along with the citys massive popularity as a tourist destination, petty crime is always a possibility. By taking a few simple precautions, you can remove most of the potential for becoming a victim.

Safety

Although San Diego is considered one of the safer major American cities, extra care should be taken along the edges of downtown and in Balboa Park after dark. Visitors should take all the usual precautions when travelling in a new city such as keeping valuables out of sight, and cameras and bags slung across the shoulder. If you go to the beach, check with the lifeguards about dangerous riptides or polluted water areas.

Fortunately, violent crime is rarely a problem in San Diego. Visitors still need to keep alert when walking around the city after dark, as this is the time when most thieves are lurking about. Cars with rental licence plates make easy targets for thieves. Dont leave anything of value in your car and try to park it in your hotel garage at night. Its strongly suggested that all visitors to San Diego buy travel insurance to ensure that any mishaps dont ruin their trip.

Police: 911

Health

There are no serious health risks in San Diego which should cause you concern. The quality of the tap water is good and the water is safe to drink, but its always advisable to stick to bottled water as your stomach will not be used to the difference in microbes. The food in San Diegos restaurants is up to international standards and wont be an issue.

San Diegos sunny but mild climate tricks many visitors into thinking that the sun is not as strong as it actually is. Never underestimate the potential for sunburn, even if the day starts off a bit hazy. Wear plenty of sunscreen and a hat when venturing out to the beaches or even just wandering around the city.

If anything does happen during your visit, there are excellent medical facilities right in San Diego. All of the staff and doctors speak English and can assist with any problems. Visitors from other countries should check whether they are covered by their medical policy in the United States. If not, its wise to get some travel insurance to cover any unexpected hospital costs. The price of travel insurance is very small compared to a typically exorbitant American medical bill.

Ambulance: 911
Scripps Mercy Hospital: +1 619 294 8111