Can I feel safe in Chihuahua?
The highest indexes of insecurity are in Juarez City, where the presence of drug dealers and "coyotes" - crooks dedicated to "facilitating" the crossing of the border bound for the United States to dozens of illegal aliens - bring as a consequence a series of illegal activities. Another source of preoccupation is the mysterious killings of young women of crossbred countenances in recent years.
The situation is a lot calmer in the state capital, Chihuahua, where the urban risks are lower; in any case, the action of a few delinquents should not discourage travellers or be a deterrent for those wishing to visit this beautiful land of welcoming people; nonetheless, take into consideration the following precautionary measures:

• Put your wallet in a safe place and carry with you only the money you deem necessary for the day's expenses and no more than one credit card; it is also advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport with you.
  
  
• Do not wear too much jewellery (leave them at the hotel's safety box), they could be a temptation for thieves; mind your purse as well.
  
  
• Be extremely cautious with your photo and video cameras; it is recommendable not to show them all the time and to avoid using them in seemingly unsafe places. Do not take too long in shooting your pictures either, and put them back into their cases or bags once you have finished your photo session.

• It is best to always go out in the company of somebody, try not to get away from the barrios you are familiar with, and avoid dark and isolated places at night. Before setting off on a tour, ask if the place you are planning to go to is safe at your hotel's reception desk.
  
  
• Although it is an illegal practice, bribes or "bites" by the police are not rare in Mexico; if you happen to be detained by one of these bad elements, do not follow his game and ask them to explain you what your fault was and to take you to the police station if you do not feel satisfied with their explanation. They usually get intimidated before such an attitude and "forget" about their wicked intentions.
  
  
• Avoid drinking alcohol in the streets for your own safety; on the other hand, do not carry with you illegal substances under any circumstances. Mexican police are usually stricter than that in the United States regarding these cases, and embassies rather not intervene when the reason for the arrest is drug dealing.

What should I do in case of an emergency?
In case you need help before any given incident, you can call the following numbers:

*Police, ambulances and fire fighters: 060
*Red Cross: 065
*State Civil Protection - Aid for the People: 080
*Mechanical Assistance (Green Angels): they are stationed on state highways from 8:00 hours up till 20:00 hours, and can provide you with gasoline, oil and spare tires in case you are facing a dire situation; they also perform minor repairs and the manpower is for free; you pay only for the spare parts.

Likewise, in case of any emergency or problem, call the embassy or consulate of your country of origin.