Safety in Hong Kong
Expats can anticipate a high level of safety in Hong Kong. The island and its surrounding areas claim a low crime rate, though, petty theft and even serious crime do occur, the latter much more rarely than the former.
For the most part though, a large, highly-trained police presence is an effective deterrent, especially in the city centre, which is heavily patrolled. In the Kowloon or the New Territories, where police presence is more spread out, some apartment complexes or houses employ a private security company.
Most people feel safe to walk at night as violent crime isn't a large concern. There are no areas of Hong Kong that need to particularly be avoided, as is the case in some urban centres, but expats should be especially mindful of their belongings in congested areas.
Pickpockets are most common in marketplaces, on public transportation (the MTR, Peak Tram, Star Ferry, etc.), and in the Central district. Otherwise, expats should just take normal security precautions.
Hong Kong has a well-developed system of roads, and an admirable and efficient public transportation system. Orderly congestion is standard, especially during rush hour.
Traffic fatality rates in Hong Kong are low, and continue to decline; in 2010 less than 120 people died in car accidents.
The Hong Kong police have made road safety a priority for 2011, and expats who own cars can anticipate a relatively safe driving environment.
There are no specific health concerns associated with Hong Kong, and the government is quick to respond to potential diseases after a SARS outbreak wreaked havoc in 2003, and rare cases of the bird flu scared off tourists a few years ago.
Emergency Numbers
â–ºMedical: 999
â–ºPolice: 999
For the most part though, a large, highly-trained police presence is an effective deterrent, especially in the city centre, which is heavily patrolled. In the Kowloon or the New Territories, where police presence is more spread out, some apartment complexes or houses employ a private security company.
Most people feel safe to walk at night as violent crime isn't a large concern. There are no areas of Hong Kong that need to particularly be avoided, as is the case in some urban centres, but expats should be especially mindful of their belongings in congested areas.
Pickpockets are most common in marketplaces, on public transportation (the MTR, Peak Tram, Star Ferry, etc.), and in the Central district. Otherwise, expats should just take normal security precautions.
- Lock your doors and windows when leaving home.
- Keep valuable possessions out of plain view.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep note of your personal belongings.
Road safety in Hong Kong
Hong Kong has a well-developed system of roads, and an admirable and efficient public transportation system. Orderly congestion is standard, especially during rush hour.
Traffic fatality rates in Hong Kong are low, and continue to decline; in 2010 less than 120 people died in car accidents.
The Hong Kong police have made road safety a priority for 2011, and expats who own cars can anticipate a relatively safe driving environment.
Health safety in Hong Kong
There are no specific health concerns associated with Hong Kong, and the government is quick to respond to potential diseases after a SARS outbreak wreaked havoc in 2003, and rare cases of the bird flu scared off tourists a few years ago.
Emergency Numbers
â–ºMedical: 999
â–ºPolice: 999
