Safety in Vancouver

Vancouver is a very safe city. There is little chance that a traveler or resident will have problems. Under certain conditions, however, trouble can happen anywhere. If you follow a few simple rules, your stay in Vancouver should be trouble free. The purpose of this information is to familiarize you with the city and provide guidelines for a safe visit. These are all simple precautions that one must take when visiting any country.

Protection from Theft & Street Crime

If you follow a few simple rules, you will probably not be affected by crime.  Most of this is common sense.

On the streets:

G Ask someone you know for advice about the best route to events, restaurants, and shopping.

G At night, walk in well-lit and well-traveled areas.   

G Wherever you go, try to take a friend.  Students who travel in groups do not usually get lost and are rarely victims of crime.  They also have more fun!

G If somebody wants your money and is threatening you with violence, give them the money and quickly report the robbery to police by calling 911.

G Do not fight back and do not carry a weapon in your bag.  Weapons are illegal and might be used against you.

G Some areas, such as Hastings Street, have higher crime rates.  Ask your teacher or friends about dangerous places to be and don’t go there.

G The most common type of crime in Vancouver is petty theft.  Do not leave your backpack, purse or camera unattended in a library, restaurant or classroom.

G If someone asks you for directions or some other sort of help, stay a safe distance away from them.

G Some people in Vancouver ask strangers for money.  These people are often called “panhandlers”.  Some panhandlers suffer from drug or alcohol addictions.  If you give money to these people, you might encourage their addictions.  There are agencies that provide free meals and shelter for street people.    If you want to help, you can give to a good charity.

G Do not display money, jewelry, or other valuable items in public.  Keep a little money in an outside pocket so you will not need to open your wallet.

G Keep your wallet in an inside pocket and keep your purse or backpack closed and in your arms.

G Be discreet when looking at maps.

G Do not fall asleep in a public place.

G Bicycles can be stolen easily.  If you leave your bike in a public place, use a good lock.

Out at Night   

Vancouver is a very safe city and residents are generally friendly but you should remember these points:

G If you go to a club or a bar, you should go with friends.  You can still meet people but will have a group to help you out if you have problems.

G If you plan to drink alcohol, be sure to arrange a way to get home.  Never drink and drive in Canada.  The penalties are harsh.

G It is fun to meet new people but don’t give strangers the power in your relationship with them.  Don’t let people you don’t know buy you a drink or give you food unless you see it being prepared.  Drugs are common in some clubs, so it is important to be careful. 

G Do not let people “give you a ride home” unless you bring along a friend.  Never hitchhike.

G Always walk facing oncoming traffic.

G Tell your friends where you live and how to get you home if you are too confused to do so after a night out.

G If someone you meet at a social event is bothering you, tell them to stop.  Do not worry about hurting their feelings or being nice.  If you aren’t clear, they might not stop.  If they continue to bother you, tell someone in the place where you are. 

G If you want to stop a relationship with someone, be very clear about the fact that you don’t want to see them anymore.  If they continue to bother you, make sure that you tell a teacher or a friend about the situation.  Do not keep harassment to yourself.  If they continue to bother you, contact the police.  It is illegal in Canada for someone to contact you after you have told them to stop.  If you are not sure what to do, discuss the situation with someone at the school.

G If someone bothers you, say “Go away!”

Emergency Contacts

G In Vancouver, the telephone number for emergency services is 911(.  This is for Police, Fire Department, and Ambulance Services.  You do not need coins if calling from a pay phone.  Interpreters are available.

G You should also know where the closest hospital and police station to your home are located.

G If you are a victim of crime, no matter how small, report it to the police.  Canadian police are very professional and helpful.  Other services are also available to help victims.  The number for the Victim Information Line is:  1-800-563-0808(.

G If you have a problem with your school or agent.  You can usually contact someone at your Embassy.

Korean 604-681-9581

Japan 604-684-5869 or your Embassy

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 Visitors to this site since Feb. 2nd, 2003