Safety

Can I feel safe in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, it is a safe destination strange to the problems affecting large cities. Here you can totally enjoy the sun and the beaches, although it is never an excess to take into consideration certain precautions in order to avoid unpleasant incidents that might blur your holydays.
We recommend you the following precautionary measures:

• Always keep an eye on your luggage at the airport. Do not accept errands or packages from people you do not know.
• 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.
• Do not wear too much jewellery (leave them at the hotel's safety box). Do not neglect your purse either.
• Be very careful with your photo and video cameras. It is recommendable not to show them all the time and to avoid using them in seemingly insecure places.
• When taking a taxi try to catch one of the vehicles parked at the hotels' doors or at tourist places, especially at night.
• Avoid walking alone across solitary places and try to be with another person, especially at night.
• Try not to go alone to withdraw money from an ATM. If you notice any weird device or that any of the slots have been tampered with, desist of completing your transaction.
• For your own safety avoid drinking alcohol on the streets. On the other hand, do not carry with you illegal substances under any circumstances. Mexican police is usually very strict in such cases.

What should I do in case of an emergency?
It is fundamental to remain calm and to try not to loose control. Calmness is the best ally in case of an emergency. Try and control the situation and if you need help call the following numbers:

Police: 060 / (52-322) 222-0123 / 223-25-00
Transit: (52-322) 224-8484
Fire-Fighters: 060 / (52-322) 225-0000 / 225-0018
Ambulances: 060 / (52-322) 222-1533
Port Authority: (52-322) 224-0427
Red Cross: (52-322) 222-1533 / 222-4973

It is also recommendable to call the embassy or consulate of your country of origin. They can advice you and help solve your emergency.

Are hurricanes frequent in Puerto Vallarta?
Luckily enough, the mountain range of the Western Sierra Madre is an excellent barrier against hurricanes, predictable phenomena that usually occur in summer (June to October).
Only one hurricane has pounded the coasts of Puerto Vallarta in the last 50 years. It happened in 2002.

What other recommendation should I follow while in Puerto Vallarta?
Do not get into the sea right after having eaten. Do not take unnecessary risks and do not get into the sea if the waters are unsettled, wait until the surf settles down. Follow the recommendations of the lifesavers, they will indicate you the safest areas for swimming.