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The Camino to Santiago is generally a very safe place for pilgrims. However accidents do happen and like anywhere else pilgrims must take precautions against crime. Above all common sense must prevail.
Do not leave your belongings unattended
- keep your valuables with you at all times
- even in the shower in albergues.
Carry a mobile phone – or have access to one. Telephone numbers of the emergency services are on the reverse of this card.
Stay alert – be aware of where you are and who you are with. Trust your instincts about strangers.
Walk with another pilgrim – if you feel at all nervous or simply want company.
Wear a reflective vest – Spanish law requires everyone walking on roads or close to traffic to wear a reflective vest before first light and after dark. These are available from gas stations and many shops and supermarkets.
Keep copies – of your passport and any important numbers in a separate place from your purse or wallet.
Arrange insurance – have appropriate travel insurance which also provides cover for health care. Keep the insurance compa- ny helpline number handy.
Trust other pilgrims – but only to the extent you know them. Don’t forget the basic precautions you would take anywhere.
If something happens – do not hesitate to call the authorities if something happens which is of concern to you. Just as you would at home. The numbers are on the reverse of this card
Above all – have fun! But don’t forget that the Camino is the same as all other situa- tions where there are people. Use your common sense.
Emergency Numbers
Before calling the emergency services, if at all possible work out your location from your guidebook or by asking other people.
112 is the general Emergency Number in Europe. They will answer very quickly even if there is no credit on your phone. Explain slowly and clear- ly that you need to speak to an operator in English if that is the case.
- 062 – The Guardia Civil
- 091 – National Police
- 092 – Local Police
Each of these services has their own areas of responsibility. However they advise that when in doubt simply phone them and they will decide which force should best respond.
- 061 – Health Emergencies
- 080 – Fire Service
Victims of Crime
There is a dedicated English language telephone number for victims of crimes who wish to make a police report but do not speak Spanish. It operates from 8 am to 12 am daily. The number is (34)-902-102-112.