The Camino de Santiago is generally a very safe place for pilgrims. However accidents do happen and like anywhere else, pilgrims must take precautions against crime. Above all common sense must prevail.
- Do not leave your belongings unattended – keep your valuables with you at all times – even in the shower in albergues.
- Carry a mobile phone – or have access to one. Telephone numbers of the emergency services are listed below.
- Stay alert – be aware of where you are and who you are with. Trust your instincts about strangers.
- Walk with another pilgrim – if you feel at all nervous or simply want company.
- Wear a reflective vest – Spanish law requires everyone walking on roads or close to traffic to wear a reflective vest before first light and after dark. These are available from gas stations and many shops and supermarkets.
- Keep copies – of your passport, prescriptions and any important numbers in a separate place from your purse or wallet. If possible, scan a copy of your passport, any prescriptions and send them to your email address for future reference.
- Arrange insurance – have appropriate travel insurance which also provides cover for health care. Keep the insurance company helpline number handy.
- Trust other pilgrims – but only to the extent you know them. Don’t forget the basic precautions you would take anywhere.
- If something happens – Do not hesitate to call the authorities if something happens which is of concern to you. Just as you would at home. The numbers are listed below.
- Make an ICE Card – This is very helpful for those taking medication. You can make your own ICE card showing what medication you take in the event of an emergency.
Above all – have fun! But don’t forget that the Camino is the same as all other situations where there are people. Use your common sense.
Emergency Numbers – Before calling the emergency services if at all possible work out your location from your guidebook or by asking other people.
112 is the general Emergency Number in Europe. They will answer very quickly even if there is no credit on your phone. Explain slowly and clearly that you need to speak to an operator in English if that is the case.
062 – The Guardia Civil
091 – National Police
092 – Local Police
Each of these services has their own areas of responsibility. However they advise that when in doubt simply phone them and they will decide which force should best respond.
061 – Health Emergencies
080 – Fire Service
Victims of Crime
There is a dedicated an English-language telephone number for victims of crimes who wish to make a police report but do not speak Spanish. The number is +34 902102112. It operates from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily.
UK Embassy in Spain / +34 91 714 6300
www.gov.uk/government/world/organisations/british-embassy-madrid
Irish Embassy in Spain / +34 914364093
www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/Spain/
Source: www.caminodesantiago.me/forum
Shamrocks & Shells 