The Netherlands is generally a safe country, and it even landed the 23rd spot in Business Insider’s Safest Countries in the World article. However safe though, one can always benefit from knowing how to take care in a foreign land. Here are some tips in staying safe that may come in handy while you are residing in the Netherlands:

• Take the usual precautions of not walking far from public areas and always mind your belongings when visiting any crowded areas such as public transportation vehicles, tourist spots, parks, and public dining areas.
• Be aware of drug tradings that happen in places not crowded during the night in Amsterdam, avoid going to these areas.
• Don’t risk walking at night without company, especially in dark areas or other places that are not well lit.
• When walking in crowded spots, be aware of the “bumping” scheme where pickpockets try to divert your attention to get close and swipe your wallet away from you. Make sure your valuables are inside your bags or in places that would be difficult to access for thieves. These kinds of crimes are most experienced in Amsterdam.
• Don’t bring so much cash when traveling in public places and tourist spots.
• If you have a bike, never neglect putting a lock on it before leaving it at designated parking areas. Sometimes people take advantage of unattended bicycles, or there are instances that your bikes may be switched for another if it is not securely chained.
• Be aware of designated red biking lanes and don’t walk along them. Once you walk on bike lanes, you become a hazard to those you are biking and you also put yourself in the possibility of being hit.
• It is recommended not to visit the Red Light District at night. It can be very dangerous in that area since gangs take control of that place when the area is open at night.