UK tourists going to Spain are being told to lock all doors and windows in their holiday accommodation following a new security alert.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its guidance on safety and security in Spain, with Brits urged to be vigilant while holidaying in the country. The FCDO says tourists need to be alert to the risk of street crime in Spain as thieves will use distraction techniques and often work in teams to steal items, so it’s essential to take care of personal belongings, particularly passports and money during your stay.
Foreign Office advice recommends avoiding carrying all of your valuables in one place, as if this is stolen then you’ll lose everything. As such, it’s best to split these items among your luggage and to keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe, just in case.
As an added safety measure, tourists are urged to ensure accommodation in Spain has adequate security and to keep windows and doors locked to reduce the risk of theft.
The FCDO says: “Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire.
“Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe.
“Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you’re concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.”
The FCDO recommends that holidaymakers make use of the Spanish Police and Civil Guard mobile app when visiting Spain, as this allows you to discreetly contact police forces if you are a victim or witness of a crime.
With the ‘ALERT COPS’ app you can send a chat message, photos and videos to police forces and you’ll receive an immediate response. It also allows you to share your locations with family and friends, or with rescue services in the event of an emergency, plus a 10-second audio recording.
Spain’s Ministerio Del Interior explains: “Have you just been robbed on your street? Can’t locate a family member and think they’re missing? With AlertCops, you can communicate with the State Security Forces (FFCCSE) easily and discreetly.
“To use it, simply validate your phone number, open the app, and press the alert button in its icon menu . This will notify your location to the nearest monitoring center.
“You can send images and videos and indicate whether the alert occurred to you or if you witnessed it. The State Security Forces will receive all the information so they can help you as quickly as possible.”
