Safety in Prague

Written by Transitions.cz
for the Ceska Sporitelna handbook

Compared to many Western cities, Prague is relatively safe. You will generally find policemen very helpful.  Prague is an unthreatening city to walk around. Violent crimes in the city centre are rare. The main criminal problem is petty pilfering (pickpockets) from cars, hotels, and pockets. As with any city, always use caution and care when travelling around.
Pickpockets

Belongings in cars

Car alarms have proved not to be a deterrent. Try and park your car in an underground car park, especially if you are driving a foreign make. Never leave anything of value in your car.

Women

Women may encounter a few stares and comments, but this is about as far as sexual harassment will go. However, women, who are alone, should try to avoid Wenceslas Square at night.  As with any major city, always exercise extreme caution when travelling alone. 

Documentation

It is technically illegal not to carry some form of identification (normally your passport). Although you are unlikely to be asked to produce it, having it could save a lot of problems. However, we recommend carrying photocopies of all essential documents while keeping the originals in a safe place.

The Police and Security Services

In Prague you will come across several kinds of policemen and women and members of various security services. Report any problems to a uniformed state police officer at a police station.  To file a police report, go to the Praha 1 police station (Jungmannovo náměstí 9, Nové Město, Praha 1), as this is the police station that can organise an interpreter rapidly. If the theft occurred in another district, the interpreter will take you to that district´s police station to make a report.

In an emergency, dial 158. 
The state police carry guns and can arrest a suspect. They patrol the streets on foot or drive green and white patrol cars.

The municipal police are the other main security force, have greater powers, and are divided into different sections.
Traffic police ensure the smooth running of traffic and regulate parking, speeding and drunk driving. It is illegal to drive with any alcohol in your bloodstream – any accident you may have will automatically be considered your fault no matter what the circumstances. If you have an accident, call 158 immediately and do not move the car. If you move the car you will not be able to claim insurance.  It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving unless you have a hands free system installed in your car.

Safety Tips

This article was originally published by www.transitions.cz, for the Ceska Sporitelna welcome Hand Book.