Be Safe!

Salou is no more risky than any other tourist town, but while on holiday, don't relax your
guard too much. Here are some things to take note of.

1: Hotel Security. When you arrive, keep an eye on your bags at reception. Thieves can
take advantage of the crowds to make off with an unguarded case. Use the hotel safe or
safety boxes to store passports, travellers cheques, jewelery, spare cash and credit
cards you don't need to carry here. Only carry the cash you need for each trip.
Leave the passport and travel tickets in the safe. Insure your stuff!

2: In Cafes and Bars. Keep handbags and wallets, cameras, phones in front of you or in a
pocket. Beware of beggars placing papers or cards over them. Never drape a coat or bag over
the back of the chair. Also be alert for pickpockets on trains and buses and especially
in crowded Barcelona.

3: On the street. Don't put a wallet in a back pocket. Don't keep valuables in a backpack
pocket (they slit the pocket from below). If you take out wallet or purse to pay for things
including the bus or road train (this is a favourite) watch out for snatchers.
Late at night, don't walk alone especially down dark narrow lanes. Take a taxi home from
night clubs.

4: Crossing the street. Don't expect any mercy from drivers. They are just as confused as
you since a flashing yellow light means "Stop, Pedestrians have been signalled to cross" or
"Watch out - pedestrians haven't been signalled to cross, but might anyway" or
"The electrical connection to this lamp is not very good". Do use the zebra crossings -
don't just run out and hope for the best. Obey the alarms and barriers at the railway
crossing. Several deaths a year - mostly elderly foreigners.

5: On The Beach. Take only what you really need to the beach. Don't abandon your bag or
cash when you go for a swim.
Ask someone near to watch it for you - they won't mind. In the water, don't swim or pedalo beyond
the yellow buoys - they mark the speedboat limits. Keep your sun exposure under control - choose
the correct sunblock 30 minimum on day 1! There are Red Cross centres on all the main beaches
if the kids get lost, or if you feel unwell.

6: Health: Ice is nowadays made with pure water so no risks anymore. Most sickness
is caused by over-indulgence on local cheap spirits. In very warm weather avoid mayonnaise
and eggs. If you suffer from dehydration or any other complaint see the pharmacy about
salt tablets. The one at the top of C/ Valls (round the corner from H. San Diego) is
excellent. Be extremely careful of sunburn. Use 50 factor for kiddies and top up all day.