Here is everything you need to know about safety in Houston
Is Houston Safe at Night?

Is Houston Safe for Women?

Houston and Natural Disasters

- Carefully monitor the weather news and any other news reports about the disaster.
- Do not get into a car or attempt to drive anywhere when there is a flood or hurricane.
- When indoors, avoid standing close to windows or any glass surfaces likely to shatter.
- It is advisable to have an emergency kit at the ready, containing food, water, flashlights, medicines and any other necessary supplies.
- Try to be in touch with your neighbours, help them or ask for help if need be.
Tips for Staying Safe in Houston

- Be alert of your surroundings and avoid distractions: No matter where you are, always be aware of your surroundings and raise the alarm if you see something or someone suspicious. Avoid talking on the phone or listening to music while you are going around the city since that would make you an easy target.
- Stick to known and well-lit areas: Houston has its fair share of shady neighbourhoods and strange alleyways known for criminal activities, especially post sundown. It is advisable to not venture into unknown parts of the city or to take short-cuts through such areas to avoid any problems.
- Don’t carry too much money: It goes without saying that as a tourist, you would want to shop or eat out often, but be warned against carrying large amounts of cash on you. Keep only as much you would need throughout the day and try not to take it all out at once in front of people.
- Walk with purpose: One of the easiest ways of being targeted while on a trip is by looking like a tourist. To avoid this, know exactly where you wish to go, don’t talk to strangers on the street and don’t stop frequently to stand and admire something you see.
- Avoid flashy clothes: Unless you are going to a fancy dinner or a club, avoid wearing too much jewellery or carrying expensive accessories since they increase your chances of being targeted.
Source - Lock your doors and windows: Whether you are staying at a hotel or an Airbnb, never forget to lock your doors and windows at night or when you are out. Also make sure to do a thorough inspection of your lodging to ensure that there are no hidden cameras anywhere.
- Keep copies of your documents: When you are out and about, you would need to keep some form of identification with you and instead of carrying important documents like your passport, keep copies of it to show when required. In fact, it would be smart to have a copy of all necessary documents like tickets, insurance, drivers license etc.
- Find a safe place for your documents: It is advisable to not keep your real documents but your copies with you in case of pickpocketing, and to lock away the former in a safe place. You can keep them in a safe if there is one in your room, or in a suitcase given that no one is likely to open it.
- Don’t provide strangers with any private details: Not to say that every person you encounter on your trip will be dangerous but it is better to not engage in conversation with people you don’t know. If you do talk to a stranger, never give out your phone number or address, and don’t tell them about your plans in the city.
- Know the emergency contact numbers: In the event that you are alone and find yourself in a worrying situation, you must know who to call. The first thing is to call 911 immediately and then anyone else that you might know in the city. In case you are outside and need help, try to find the nearest police or fire station.
5 Neighbourhoods to Avoid in Houston
In order to ensure that you do not venture into dangerous areas, here is a list of some neighbourhoods or areas that you must avoid at all costs while in Houston:1. MacGregor Neighbourhood

2. Greenspoint

3. Leeland Street and Scott Street

4. Tidewall area

5. Sunnyside

The information mentioned above is based on research, has been derived from various sources and is in no way intended to create an unfavourable opinion of Houston or any of its neighbourhoods. While some areas in the city may be unwelcoming at the moment, it is important to keep in mind that things are surely changing for the better.Like many cities in the United States, Houston too has its dangers and there are multiple areas that must be avoided at all costs. Besides being aware of these issues, you must make sure to ensure your own safety in Houston by being an alert and aware tourist and must take every precaution to not become a victim of any crime