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Safety in Florence

common sense!
[Naomi Asselin]

The school day was over and I collected my belongings and shoved them in my bag, before leaving for home. I popped on my headphones and began the gallivant back to my apartment near Piazza Signoria, checking my surroundings on my way. I soon heard a male voice call out. “Hey, you, I know you can hear me. What are you doing tonight?” A few more snide comments were made, but best to ignore. My roommate spoke of a woman who had approached her shaking a cup of change in her face. Although these experiences may seem harmless and Florence appears to be a safe city, what are the hidden dangers? For its abroad students and tourists, Florence can be a harmless city with just a bit of common sense.
Summer is near and that means shorts, tank tops, mini skirts, and sandals. Italian friends tell me that it lis best to avoid wearing minimal clothing while the evenings are still chilly, as it can often attract a lot of unwanted attention. When going out, especially women, always travel with others. It can be extremely dangerous to walk alone at night, particularly in an inebriated state so, if alone, always call a taxi. Last semester there were two reports of rape with American students, so be sensible, walk with others and remember (and mandatory by law) to carry a copy of your passport as police have, and do randomly check IDs. If lost or stolen contact your consulate.
Gypsies and pick-pockets are often children and woman, so take care when traveling by day in Florence. Carry your belongings close to your body and keep them in sight (accessible bags and wallets are easy prey), and stay in places highly focused with tourism. The child is often used to distract the target.
So, with a bit of common sense and tactfulness, you can enjoy Florence without having to constantly check pockets or worry about not getting home safely in the evening.

Useful Information

If personal valuables, like purses or wallets are stolen, go immediately to the Carabinieri on Borgo Ognissanti #48- tel. 055 2061
When traveling, always carry your original passport or a copy, as this is mandatory by law, and you could be fined.
Taxis are great at night when traveling alone. They cannot be hailed, but picked up in the main taxi squares (Duomo, San Marco, Repubblica, or train station), or by calling, giving your location: 055.4242, 055.4390 or 055.4798.


MORE
http://www.poliziadistato.it/
http://www.carabinieri.it/