Visitors to Ireland - crime prevention
Information
Taking a few sensible precautions can help you to enjoy your stay in Ireland and avoid becoming a victim of crime.
Things to remember
Carry a handbag or shoulder bag that can be held securely.
Keep a close eye on your bag in crowded streets, shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs.
When visiting the city centre area, park your car in one of the controlled car parks and keep the parking ticket with you.
Always lock your car securely when leaving it unattended, even for short periods of time.
When checking into your accommodation, ask the receptionist about secure car parking.
If you are carrying cash and valuables, make sure that they are secure on your person, e.g., in a money-bag underneath clothing.
If you are travelling in a couple or group, divide your money among yourselves.
Keep reference numbers of your travellers' cheques separate from the cheques themselves - this will enable you to cancel stolen cheques quickly in an emergency.
Keep photocopies of all your travel documents separate from the documents themselves.
Things to avoid
Never leave luggage or valuables exposed inside a parked car or luggage attached to a roof rack.
Never carry your passport or large amounts of cash with you or leave them in your room - use the security facilities that may be available at your accommodation.
Never give money to children or people begging - it only encourages this activity.
Never pitch tents or camp in open spaces, unapproved sites and public areas - camp only on approved sites.
If you are the victim of a crime
If you are a visitor to Ireland and have been the victim of a crime, you should report it immediately. The Gardai will provide a translator for you if required. The Gardai will also refer you to the Tourist Assistance Service.
Tourist Assistance Service
The Irish Tourist Assistance Service can:
- Provide practical and emotional support
- Arrange accommodation or meals if needed
- Liaise with embassies
- Help to replace stolen travel tickets
- Cancel travellers' cheques and credit cards
- Act as a base for money transfers
- Arrange a discount for windscreen repairs
- Arrange transport for tourists who are stranded
- Help with language difficulties
- Deal with medical needs
- Offer a helpline telephone service (1890 365 700)
- Offer telephone and fax facilities
The Irish Tourist Assistance Service has published a leaflet entitled Safety Tips for Tourists Guide (pdf).
Where to apply
You can find the telephone numbers of every Garda station in Ireland at the front of all public telephone directories.
If you are not fully satisfied or have any enquiries, suggestions or feedback on any aspect of the treatment of victims of crime by members of the Garda Siochana, please contact