Safety is one of the top things people look for when they have the chance to choose a place to live. So if you’re thinking of moving to Berlin, you may wonder whether Berlin is a safe place to live. In this extensive guide we take a close look at safety in Germany’s exciting capital. Find here the crime rate, public safety measures, transportation and safety tips accordingly to think before moving to Berlin.
Crime Rate in Berlin
Berlin has its share of crime, but not much more than a major city anywhere and well, compared to other urban centres across Europe, Berlin is pretty safe. Crime statistics in the city show that Berlin’s crime rate has been dropping recently. Various measures have been taken by the city’s government to give the city a feeling of Public safety and making it a safe city, whether the city is visited by the tourists or if it is the residence.
Categories of Crime
Other types of crimes occur in major cities more frequently than other types of crimes. Petty theft like pickpocketing and bike theft are one of the most common offences recorded in Berlin. But violent crimes are relatively rare and the city’s homicide rate is far less than in other European capitals.
Safe Areas and places to flee
Berlin is actually a very safe city, but you do have to be aware that different are some areas that are safer than others. Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, Steglitz-Zehlendorf and Prenzlauer Berg are best known to have low crime rates and high livability. For instance, certain neighborhoods like parts of Neukölln and Wedding, have higher crime rates, and while daytime is not by far the best time to go, especially at night, it is safe during the day. But even those neighborhoods have seen a lot of improvements in recent years.
Public Safety Measures
The local authorities in Berlin have tried some measures to guarantee the public safety.
Police Presence
Berlin is easy to report, report, any criminal activity is easy taken care of when police presence is wide spread. Each district has numerous police stations available in case you need help. Berlin and the police also have a reputation for being good for the LGBTQ community; they have special teams dedicated to fighting crimes against the queer community as well.
A Safe and Well Maintained Infrastructure
For a long time, one of the advantages of living in Berlin was the constant state of maintenance in its infrastructure. Good streets, bike paths and good public transportation make you feel secure. The city spends a lot in terms of maintaining its public spaces to maintain the safety and the health of its citizens.
Video Surveillance
Berlin is decked out with tons of video cameras. That’s good privacy concern, but surprisingly it deters crime, helps solve crime and save time for everyone. But the use of cameras in the public realm introduces a second layer of security.
Berlin’s Transport Safety
Navigating a new city can be intimidating, but Berlin has several options of transportation options that are mostly safe, and reliable.
Public Transportation
Berlin’s public transport is widely considered the best in Europe. The buses, trams, trains and U-Bahn (subway) network is well connected, efficient and safe for use. During peak times it’s monitored by vehicles and stations, security personnel patrol. Crowded places are always the ideal places to be alert to your environment and keep an eye of your things.
Bicycles
It is one of Berlin’s bicycle friendliest cities. There are dedicated bike lanes and a bike sharing program for cycling. But, bike theft is a thing, so buying a decent lock, and securing your bike well, would definitely go a long way in terms of making sure your bike doesn’t find itself on the wrong side of the tracks.
Walking Safety
Rambling through Berlin on foot affords you a chance to immerse yourself in the juicy culture and architecture of this pretty pregnant city. Even at night it is safe to walk the well lit streets and walkways. But even so, if you don’t know the area, it’s a good idea to stay alert and stick to busy streets.
Stay Safe in Berlin: Tips
Berlin is a city with low crime rates but still pretty safe, and it’s always good to take some precautions so that there can be no problems with personal safety. Here are some helpful tips:
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Secure Your Belongings
In places crowded or most frequented by tourists, keep your belongings secure. Use secure closures and don’t leave expensive things out. Be on your toes, it’s easy for pickpockets to get what they want in Belgium and if you do intend bring a lot of money then don’t be afraid to use a money belt for added security.
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Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Don’t be over confident and be alert, no matter where you are. Be on the lookout in public transport and in crowded tourist locations. If something doesn’t feel right go with your gut & move somewhere a lot more comfortable.
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Learn Basic German Phrases
Though many Berliners speak English, it can be really useful to know a few basic German phrases in case of emergency or helping you retrieve your lost wallet on the corner. By all means ask for help, be polite and say simple greetings; tell them where they are, and, as best you can, use understandable directions.
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Follow Local Laws
For your safety and enjoyment of Berlin, you follow local laws and regulations. Learn the rules, the customs, the norms of the city – to avoid disturbing complications, unnecessary misunderstandings etc.
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Get in touch with Local Communities
You can build these connections with local communities, or fellow expats and sense of security and support. Attending events, joining in social or interest groups, participating in cultural activities can all help you to meet new people and learn valuable resources.
Conclusion
The Berlin is a safe place for residents as well as visitors. Its low crime rate, strict public safety measures, and the general well maintained infrastructure helps it keep a strong sense of security. Knowing that you want to live somewhere should never mean not seeing something of the city you’re living in — unless you choose to isolate yourself! — and, as is the case, Berlin, Berlin is full of beauty and culture and by familiarizing yourself with the neighborhoods of the city, using its reliable public transportation system, and by exercising basic safety precautions, you can experience all that Berlin has to offer. In other words, if you are dreaming to live in a city that can offer you an exciting, diverse and most importantly safe place, then Berlin might probably work just best for you!
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