Crime: U.S. Citizens are not specifically targeted for crime in the Eastern Caribbean islands. However, crimes of opportunity such as petty larceny, burglary, automobile break-ins; as well as incidents of violent crime, such as murder, sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug related crimes do occasionally occur. As you would in any major metropolitan area of the U.S., use the below personnel security measures while traveling:
- Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, unsecured in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
- Avoid walking alone, especially at night, on beaches, and in isolated or poorly lit locations.
- Go out in groups or with a companion and restrict nighttime activities to established safe and reputable venues.
- Use only clearly marked taxis and avoid rides with strangers.
- Stick to well-lit and well-traveled routes.
- Avoid displaying flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and large amounts of cash.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you see something suspicious or unusual contact local police to report immediately.
- Use added caution when shopping in crowded areas, especially during the holiday season.
- Use added caution when attending crowded events, celebrations, music festivals, etc.
- Do not leave drinks unattended in public venues as this could create a potential vulnerability for the use of “date rape” drugs in furtherance of criminal activity.
- Do not be predictable; vary your daily routes and schedules.
- Do not engage in illegal activity.
- For boaters: Be wary of unfamiliar persons or crafts approaching your boat, whether at anchor or at sea.
*Abide by the above security measures at all times, be aware of your surroundings in all areas, and use added vigilance while in isolated areas where tourists do not normally frequent.
Firearms: Do not enter Saint Vincent and the Grenadines with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines government. Contact the government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines before you travel with questions regarding travel with firearms.
Potential for Natural Disasters:
- La Soufriere, an active volcano located on the northern part of St. Vincent, poses a constant threat. The volcano erupted almost daily from April 9 to April 22, 2021, forcing the evacuation of nearby communities.
- Earthquakes may occur at any time, often associated with seismic activity in the volcano.
- The Eastern Caribbean islands are vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms from mid-May through November.
- Monitor the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and St. Vincent’s National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) website and NEMO social media for the latest updates.
- NEMO Facebook and Twitter
- CDEMA website
Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at (246) 227-4000. For medical and fire emergencies call 999.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
- help you find appropriate medical care
- assist you in reporting a crime to the police
- contact relatives or friends with your written consent
- explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
- provide a list of local attorneys
- provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
- provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
- help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
- replace a stolen or lost passport
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at (246) 227-4000.
Watersports Advisory: Carefully assess the potential risks of recreational water activities and consider your physical capabilities and skills. Never venture out alone, particularly at isolated beaches or far out to sea. Avoid entering the water above your waist if you have been drinking and always be mindful of jet ski and boat traffic in the area.
Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, hospitals are able provide urgent medical treatment, though very serious injuries often require medical evacuation. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.
