Crime in Spain

Stay Safe in Spain

Yes of course there is crime, fortunately though not anywhere near as much as in the UK. Despite the sensationalist claims in the UK press of violent crime - Spain is still a safer place to live than Britain, a statement that is confirmed by crime statistics.

Here are some ideas to help you to stay safe in Spain

The first step you could take is to form a “Vecinos Co-operando” ( neighbourhood watch scheme) One I know of has been set up in Torrevieja and is supported by the Town Hall , the Policia Local, Guardia Civil & the Judicial Civil. Terry Worth is chairman of La Rosaleda Vecinios Co-operand & in the last three months has seen crime drop by up to 40%.

Thanks largely to the large cooperation and membership the area is now less attractive to the would-be-thieves.

Security is a layered system and no system is completely secure, however you can make yourself, your car & your home less attractive to the criminal.

Few Spanish people ever commit a crime against British citizens if there is a crime wave in the area it is usually inspired buy foreigners & Eastern Europeans who are the major culprits

Security experts say

• Keep your external gates locked. Keep your front door shut even if you are just round the back by your pool.
• Growing plants up against walls is not only attractive but makes climbing more difficult.
• Never leave valuables on show, either in your cars or in your home.
• When out and about beware of slow moving vehicles - a preferred method of bag snatching, is the drive by.
• Only take out what you need. And if visiting banks or shops put money and credit cards away before leaving the premises.
• Always be suspicious - never leave luggage unattended and never accept help when loading shopping unless you know the person.
• Never let a stranger into your house without a prior appointment and ID. If in any doubt don’t let them in.
• Do not be flash with money or items of jewellery when out and about as there are gangs just waiting for signs of weakness
• DO NOT be a victim of Crime. The majority of crime is petty, and the culprits are opportunists.

Security in your New Home 

It is often wise when moving to a new home to replace the locks. Often builders give keys to subcontractors and you never know how many keys are still in circulation

• Alarm your home with an electric alarm with battery back-up as your insurance company may reduce your fees if you do this.
• A barking alarm is also a good deterrent.
• Make sure walls gate & fences are all secure

Forewarned is Forearmed

Do not let this spoil your time here in Spain - this is just to warn you. A simple deterrent would be for you and your neighbours to get together and put up signs stating that you are all being just like the ones from the Vecinos Cooperando (Neighbourhood Watch) in Torrevieja. You could even start your own by Contacting Terry Worth yourself or the association secretary Christine Pillar on 00 34 965716258 or Vice President James Herbert, (not the author, at least I don’t’ think so) on 00 34 659883516