Is Ocean City Md Safe to Visit? A Guide to a Stress-Free Vacation

When it comes to planning a vacation, one of the most important factors to consider is safety. No one wants to worry about their well-being while trying to relax and have fun. Ocean City, Maryland is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. But is it safe to visit? The answer is not a simple yes or no. Ocean City, like any other city, has its own set of risks and challenges. However, with some knowledge and preparation, you can minimize your chances of encountering any issues and have a wonderful time in this beautiful coastal town.

Crime Rates in Ocean City

Ocean City, like many other cities, has its own set of crime statistics. According to the Ocean City Police Department, the city experiences a moderate level of crime. However, the majority of crimes are non-violent and property-related, such as theft, vandalism, and burglary.

In 2020, Ocean City reported a total of 1,434 crimes, which is a decrease of 12% compared to the previous year. The most common crimes reported were theft (44%), followed by vandalism (23%), and burglary (15%).

It’s worth noting that crime rates can vary depending on the location within the city. The downtown area tends to have a higher concentration of crime, while the residential areas tend to be safer. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, regardless of where you are in the city.

Precautions to Take

While Ocean City is generally a safe city, there are still some precautions you can take to minimize your chances of encountering any issues:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight. Don’t leave purses, backpacks, or wallets unattended.
• Keep doors and windows locked, even when you’re inside your accommodation.
• Don’t leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers.
• Be cautious when using ATMs. Use a reputable ATM and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
• Don’t walk alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
• Keep emergency numbers handy, such as the Ocean City Police Department’s non-emergency number (410-723-6610) and the emergency number (911).

Additional Safety Tips

In addition to the precautions listed above, here are some additional safety tips to keep in mind:

• Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the beach and boardwalk. (See Also: Is Svalbard Safe to Visit? A Traveler’s Guide)

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use credit cards or traveler’s checks instead.

• Don’t leave your children unattended, especially in public areas.

• Be cautious when swimming and follow lifeguard instructions.

• Don’t engage in any illegal activities, such as drug use or underage drinking.

• Report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately. (See Also: Is It Safe To Visit Angel Falls? Planning Essentials)

Emergency Services

Ocean City has a well-equipped emergency services system in place, including:

• Ocean City Police Department: (410-723-6610)
• Ocean City Fire Department: (410-723-6611)
• Worcester County Emergency Medical Services: (410-632-1000)
• Atlantic General Hospital: (410-641-9262)

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Ocean City, Maryland is generally a safe city, it’s still important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. By following the tips and precautions listed above, you can minimize your chances of encountering any issues and have a wonderful time in this beautiful coastal town. Remember to always prioritize your safety and well-being, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the authorities if you need assistance.

Recap

Here’s a recap of the key points discussed in this article:

• Ocean City, Maryland has a moderate level of crime, with the majority of crimes being non-violent and property-related.
• The city has a well-equipped emergency services system in place, including the Ocean City Police Department, Ocean City Fire Department, Worcester County Emergency Medical Services, and Atlantic General Hospital.
• There are several precautions you can take to minimize your chances of encountering any issues, including being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding isolated areas.
• Ocean City is generally a safe city, but it’s still important to take precautions and prioritize your safety and well-being.

FAQs

Is Ocean City, Maryland a safe city?

Ocean City, Maryland is generally a safe city, but it’s still important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. The city has a moderate level of crime, with the majority of crimes being non-violent and property-related.

What are some precautions I can take to stay safe in Ocean City?

Some precautions you can take to stay safe in Ocean City include being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables secure, avoiding isolated areas, and following the tips and precautions listed above.

What should I do if I encounter any issues in Ocean City?

If you encounter any issues in Ocean City, such as a crime or an emergency, you should contact the authorities immediately. The Ocean City Police Department’s non-emergency number is (410-723-6610), and the emergency number is (911). (See Also: Is It Safe To Visit Casablanca Morocco? Discover The Truth)

Are there any specific areas of Ocean City that I should avoid?

While Ocean City is generally a safe city, there are some areas that you may want to avoid, such as the downtown area at night. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, regardless of where you are in the city.

Can I walk alone at night in Ocean City?

While it’s generally safe to walk alone at night in Ocean City, it’s still a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. You may want to consider sticking to well-lit and populated areas, and avoiding isolated areas.