Managing Personal Security

Basic principles of security.

Although Germany is a fairly safe country, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.  Here’s a few suggestions:

  1. Save emergency numbers to your phone.These include 112 (fire department & emergency medical services); 110 (police); and contacts for your health insurance, internship, and MISTI.
  2. Outsmart pickpockets and thieves: be aware of your surroundings and stay alert. Leave valuables at home and keep items like your camera or smartphone in hand or safely tucked away.
  3. Pay attention to how people around you act and dress, and try to follow their example.  It's good to maintain a limited profile so that you don't fall into the "clueless tourist" stereotype!
  4. Always keep your cellphone charged, both for basic safety reasons and to tell people if you’re running late.Germans are very punctual!