Security
Andalucía is a pretty safe place to be, particularly regarding violent crime. However, petty theft, such as bag snatching is regrettably common, particularly in tourist resorts and big cities. Don't be a victim, carry valuables under your clothes if possible and watch for people who get unnecessarily close to you at airports, at stations, on trains or buses or on the street. Never leave baggage unattended and avoid crushes. Also be cautious with people who come up to offer or ask you something for no good reason. This could be a ploy to distract you, especially as many petty thieves work in gangs.
Car contents are also sitting ducks for thieves and even if thieves who get into your car end up taking nothing, they will probably have broken a window first.
Tourist complexs and appartments are another common target, follow some simple precautions and make these habitual to minimise the chance of being a victim of petty theft
- Double lock the front door, using the key, on entry to and on leaving the apartment, double locking engages the security lock.
- Put all keys and vlauables out of site while in or out - individuals looking for items to steal will pass by to the next apartment if no easy target is spotted.
- Ensure outside gates are closed and locked when you are not actively sitting on the terrace.
- Ensure all patio doors are closed, secured and locked when not actively in use for gaining access to ouside terrace areas.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF PETTY THEFT
If you do lose anything valuable, the first step is go the nearest Local Police station (as opposed to the Guardia Civil or National Police). They will then complete a form, which you sign, stating the facts. This is a vital document if you are planning to claim on your insurance. The police will take your contact details in the event they locate the stolen items. If you lose your passport, contact your embassy or consulate for a replacement.