The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has updated its guidance on safety and security in Spain, with Brits urged to be vigilant while holidaying in the country
Brits jetting off to Spain are being warned to double-check their locks as a new security alert has been issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The latest travel advice stresses the importance of vigilance for UK holidaymakers in Spain, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding personal items against street thieves known for their distraction tactics and teamwork in pickpocketing.
The FCDO is advising tourists to be extra cautious with their possessions, especially passports and cash. They recommend not keeping all valuables together, as losing them in one go could be disastrous.
Instead, spread your important items across different bags and always have a photocopy of your passport’s photo page stashed somewhere secure.
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For added peace of mind, the FCDO suggests making sure your Spanish digs are well-secured and to always keep windows and doors firmly locked to deter opportunistic burglars.
In their guidance, the FCDO states: “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.
“Ensure your accommodation has proper security measures in place, keeping all doors and windows locked. If you have concerns about the security of your accommodation, consult your travel operator or the property owner.”
The FCDO advises holidaymakers to utilise the Spanish Police and Civil Guard mobile app while visiting Spain, allowing discreet contact with police forces in case of being a victim or witness to a crime.
The ‘ALERT COPS’ app enables sending chat messages, photos, and videos to police forces, with an immediate response, reports the Express. It also allows sharing locations with family, friends, or rescue services in emergencies, along with 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.”