General Safety Tips When You Study in London

If you are a prospective student from overseas, you may be eager to find out if studying in London is a safe option before selecting your college. Please read this article to put your mind at ease.

Drinking and Smoking Prohibited on London Travel Network

Alcohol and smoking is prohibited on all public transport, and The London Underground system has been recorded as one of the safest transport networks in the world with lowest incidents of crime. Almost all underground stations are consistently staffed until closing time at around 00:30, when the tubes stop running. However it is wise to be cautious when travelling late at night to destinations far from the centre of the city as they are likely to be less busy and have fewer staff present.

Be Cautious when Out in Evening

Part of the merits of studying in London are the many opportunities to socialize and enjoy the vivid night life of the city. If you are waiting alone in a café or pub to meet friends do not be tempted to leave your bag or any personal belongings unattended. Women especially are always advised to keep alert if alone at night in clubs or bars as there have been occurrences in the past where women have had their drink spiked and subsequently been assaulted. It is also important to take care if travelling at night or very early in the morning.

As you are studying in London, it is likely that when you have free time you will want to capitalize on having fun when you go out, however it is not a good idea to drink alcohol beyond your limits, especially if you are with strangers as you increase the likelihood of getting yourself in a risky situation.

In the event that you do not get to the underground station before it closes, night buses run in place of the tube and are certainly a unique way to experience London. It is a good idea to sit near the driver on the night bus especially if there are lots of drunken passengers on board taking the same route home as you! In the event that you have to walk back to your house solo in the dark, choose a main route along busier, well-lit streets, stay alert, don't use headphones, and try not to advertise your mobile phone by openly texting as you walk.

Call Licensed Taxis Only

If you are a single woman studying in London and revel in going out in the evenings the safest way to return home is by black cab or licensed mini cab. Never use unlicensed taxi firms when returning home who may offer you a fare in the street, and only flag Black Cabs in the street or call a licensed mini cab if black cabs are scarce. Alternatively it is possible to text CAB to 60835 which is a free public service providing two telephone numbers for local licensed minicab companies and a black cab by text to your mobile.

In an Urgent Situation

To contact the police in an emergency call 999 and request police, or for an ambulance call 112. When using public transport, there is a green emergency button at the Help point of Underground stations which can be used, and to report an incident in transit, go to immediate staff or use passenger alarm. Non-emergency incidents, or anti-social behaviour encountered in London should be reported to the local Neighbourhood Policing team or the Transport Police by calling 0300 121212 or 0800 40 50 40.

Although the level of risk associated with studying in London is minimal when compared with other capital cities, it is always best to prioritise your safety and take preventative measures so that you can have a once in a life-time experience in London for the right reasons.