Remember, your safety is strongly dependent upon you, no matter where you are visiting. Always be aware and always know where you are going. Be particularly vigilant on the beach-front and to the North of Durban. With that in mind, please note some safety tips for when you travel to Durban next week.
- When in a car fasten your seat-belt, lock your doors and only leave your windows open about 5cm
- Never pick up strangers and do not stop along the road at deserted areas
- Never display your valuables in the car, e.g. handbags, clothes, mobile phones
- Beware of your surroundings when you stop at a roundabout or stop sign
- Consumption of alcohol in public places constitutes a criminal offence
- Use reputable exchange bureaux or banks to exchange money or travellers cheques
- All tap water in South Africa is safe to drink
- Just like anywhere else in the world, please do not leave your luggage unattended
- Keep your room door locked, whether you‘re in or out
- If someone knocks on your door, check who it is before allowing them to enter
On the street:
- Please keep your valuables, e.g. jewellery, camera, cell-phones, out of sight
- Do not carry your passport. Secure in safety deposit box at your hotel
- Use credit cards or, if not possible, carry only small amounts of cash
- At night, avoid isolated, dark places
- If you require any information, policemen or tourism information officers will gladly assist you
- Do not wear backpacks
- Taxis are highly recommended and are a good, safe way to travel, especially in areas you are unfamiliar with; your hotel can help with booking a taxi
- Obtain advice from your hotel prior to embarking on foot
- If embarking on a tour use a registered tour guide
- Store valuables in the safety deposit box at your hotel’s reception
The 10GA welcome desk can advise on these or any other questions you may have. Keep the 10GA app handy in case you need to get in touch with us.
General Emergency Telephone numbers:
- In the event of an emergency: 10111
- Vodacom, Cell C and MTN cell-phone users: 112
- This is a 24-hour emergency number, throughout South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho: 082 911
- Durban Metro Police Control Room: +27 (0) 31 361 0000
- South African Police Service Delivery Line: 080 000 0596
- Ambulance: 10177
- Fire Brigade: +27 (0) 31 361 0000
- Business Against Crime: +27 (0) 31 332 0437
- Tourism KwaZulu-Natal: +27 (0) 31 366 7500; +27 (0) 86 010 1099
- Airport: +27 (0) 32 436 0031
- Travel Doctor: +27 (0) 31 360 1122