Spain's Interior Ministry Issues Sunday Safety Alert
The Spanish government's Ministry of the Interior has issued an urgent safety warning to tourists visiting the country, as millions prepare for summer holidays. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the ministry emphasized that safety should not take a vacation. The warning comes amid a European heatwave affecting much of Spain.
The ministry advised: 'You're away for a few days, but your safety doesn't go on vacation. Before leaving the car parked: Remove valuables, don't leave documents visible, choose well-lit and busy areas, and save the vehicle's location.' It added: 'Prevention is the best protection.'
Forest Fire Prevention Advice
In a separate post, the ministry offered tips for forest fire prevention: 'In the forest, every gesture counts. Don't throw away cigarette butts or matches. Don't make fire outside of authorised areas. Don't abandon flammable waste. With heat and wind, the risk increases. A small oversight can turn into a big fire.'
Foreign Office Advice on Crime
The UK Foreign Office (FO) also provides guidance for holidaymakers, warning of various crime types including street crime, vehicle theft, drink spiking, and sexual assault. According to the FO, 'Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire.'
The FO advises: 'Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe. Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you're concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.'
Vehicle Crime Warning
'Highway pirates' target foreign-registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans, warns the FO. 'They may flag you down, claiming there is something wrong with your car or that you have damaged theirs. If you decide to stop to check the condition of a vehicle, stop in a public area with lights, such as a service station. Be wary of anyone offering help.'
The FO also cautions: 'When driving, be wary of approaches from people posing as plainclothes police in unmarked cars. In all traffic-related matters, police officers will usually be in uniform. Unmarked police vehicles have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window saying 'Policía' or 'Guardia Civil'. Genuine police will only ask you to show vehicle documents – not to hand over your bag or wallet.'
Attacks and Sexual Assault
Attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but occur, according to the FO. 'In an emergency call 112. Avoid splitting up from your friends, do not leave drinks unattended and do not go off with people you do not know. Save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it's easy to find.'
Drink Spiking and Alcohol
The FO warns: 'Be alert to the possible use of 'date rape' and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy. Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.'
Scams and Timeshares
Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need it for identification, the FO notes. 'Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.' Additionally, the FO advises caution for those planning to buy or sell a timeshare, as companies offer false incentives.
