•
When on foot, be observant especially in malls, shops, and near ATMs.
•
Never go to Comayaguela (The west side of Tegucigalpa), especially to
the "mercado."
•
Carry a cell phone or company radio for emergency contact.
• Carry a laminated sheet with emergency phone numbers.
•
Don't
flash cash in public or carry a lot of money or credit cards.
•
Don’t
wear gold chains, distinctive jewelry, or expensive watches.
•
Most women in Honduras don't utilize purses but carry a "mochilla"
or backpack instead. Be aware that carrying a purse may single you out
as a foreigner to a potential thief.
•
Be
aware of increased vulnerability after using alcohol.
•
Don’t
go out alone, especially at night. Always try to go out or travel in
numbers.
•
Don’t
use the chicken buses.
•
Never
drive a maid home - most live in unsafe areas for foreign visitors.
Only offer transport as far as bus or taxi stop.
•
If
you buy vegetables at the Stadium Market on Saturdays, go with your
maid and don't carry a purse, jewelry or excessive cash. Use a high
degree of caution.
•
The
north coast cities, San Pedro Sula, and the Department of Olancho have
traditionally experienced more violent crimes. Many company security
departments keep news clippings of crime information in a read file.
Take advantage of this resource if available to you.
•
Check
with business or security professionals prior to traveling to other
cities or departments for updated crime situations.
•
Know nearby safe areas: hotels, malls, gas stations, and other mission
employee residences that can be used in an emergency. A good safe area
has lighting, security, telephones, food and bathrooms.
•
An
SUV or extended cab (doble cabina type) vehicle with dark windows up,
waiting close to your garage is a potential danger sign, especially
if not usually seen in the area. If approaching by vehicle, do not go
home but proceed to a safe area instead. If at home, contact the police
or your company's security professional / contractor.
•
These
security precautions apply in other parts of the country and the crime
rate in San Pedro Sula is even higher than Tegucigalpa.
•
If
you become a victim—DON’T RESIST. Think about how you will
react if ever confronted.