Safety and Security In London

Many of our incoming students ask the question “Is London a safe place” As with any major city there is crime, but the most important thing is to be alert at all times, and ensure that you follow certain simple guidelines.

While in London you must abide by all British laws and regulations. Failure to do so could lead to arrest, prosecution and deportation back to America, all of which will make it very difficult, if possible at all, to obtain permission to visit England again.

Security and Terrorism

Being in central London, it is essential that you take care with all aspects of security. In the past London has unfortunately fallen victim to acts of terrorism. You must always be aware of ‘suspect packages’, unattended boxes or bags. This means that you must keep your own belongings safely with you at all times, so as not to cause a false alarm. Sometimes entire Underground stations are shut down and evacuated to investigate security threats such as suspect packages. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and alert authorities at once if you have any concerns. Should a terrorist incident occur the most important thing for you to do is to let people know that you are safe. We would recommend that you return to your lodging and contacting your Faculty Director in London straight away. In the absence of a Faculty Director you should call Anglo American and let us know that you are safe. Please make sure that you contact your parents. They will be worried about you.

Pick Pocketing

Tourists flock to London. Unfortunately, so do the criminals who prey upon these visitors. London has a high rate of petty theft, including theft of wallets, purses and bags.

To avoid being a victim of theft you should always follow these simple guidelines:

• ALWAYS pay attention when you are in large, crowded areas, such as busy streets, the Underground, buses, pubs and bars. DO NOT put your cash, wallet or mobile in your back pocket, as this makes it easier for pickpockets to steal.

• ALWAYS wear backpacks in front of you (with the backpack resting against your chest). For ladies, wear purses with the strap across your chest, as this makes it more difficult for thieves to snatch your purse than wearing it on your shoulder or holding it in your hand.

• ALWAYS keep your personal items with you at all times. If you are in a bar/restaurant do not leave your bag unattended.   Be aware of your surroundings, and do not leave your bag on the back of chairs, under the table etc. Many pubs provide handbag clips under the table for your bags to hang on.

• BE AWARE of distraction theft. This is an increasing problem in London. A distraction theft may involve someone spilling a drink, or an ice cream on you. Whilst they are assisting you in removing the mess from your clothing their accomplice is picking your pocket.

• DO NOT carry around large amounts of cash and try to avoid wearing expensive jewellery and clothes and certainly nothing that indicates you are a tourist (baseball hats from colleges etc).

Security in the Apartments

Whilst you are in London your apartment is your home, and you should treat it as you would your apartment back in the States. Security is very important, and whilst we will do our utmost to ensure that buildings are kept secure at all times we would suggest that you also ensure that you are aware of your surroundings, and make sure that anything suspicious is reported to Anglo American straight away.

• DO NOT give strangers or even casual friends your address and try to avoid telling them you are a student and letting them know your timetable.

• DO NOT carry your keys around in your bag or backpack. DO NOT carry mail with you as this will let people know where you live if it is stolen.

• DO NOT leave windows and doors unlocked when not in the apartment. Overnight, apart from occupied bedrooms, make sure windows and doors are securely closed.

• DO NOT leave your door propped open at any time. We realise that you might want your friends to pop in and out of your apartments, but this is a major security risk

• ALWAYS make sure that your front door is double locked when you leave the property.

• ALWAYS check before letting people into the building. Even if you are expecting someone verify that it is them before opening the door.

• NEVER allow strangers into the apartment. All Anglo American staff carry identification, and will be happy to show this to you upon request.

• ALWAYS Keep the front door of your building securely shut.

If anything is ever stolen, either from your apartment or when you are out and about, the first thing you must do is report the incident to the police. The police will give you a reference number, which you will need when making a claim with your insurance company. If your passport is stolen, you must report it to the police. Contact the US Embassy to obtain a replacement. To speed up the process it’s advisable to keep relevant copies, such as the photo page, in a safe place.

Drugs, Weapons and Alcohol

Despite what some people think it is still illegal to possess drugs in the UK, including cannabis, and the police are well within their rights to stop you in the street and search you. If you are found in possession of drugs then you will be arrested, and likely deported.

The UK has very strict rules on weapons. Mace and Pepper spray is strictly prohibited, and it is illegal to be in possession of it.   Other weapons, such as guns and knives are also banned.

The legal age for drinking in the UK is 18. Please treat alcohol with respect, and do not abuse it. Drink sizes are often larger over here, and if you end up intoxicated you will be more at risk from other forms of crime. The police have the power to arrest and detain you if you are acting in an inappropriate way due to alcohol.