Edinburgh is a safe city with a low crime rate, but it is still important that you pay attention to your personal safety. You should be aware of the laws in the UK and Scotland while you are living here. Emergency services - call 999If you need to call the emergency services, including police, fire brigade, and ambulance, call 999.Emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.Non-emergency servicesPolice - call 101, anywhere in ScotlandNHS 24 - call 111, anywhere in ScotlandReport and SupportReport and Support is a platform for reporting distressing situations related to sexual violence, harassment, domestic abuse, stalking and more.The University of Edinburgh Report + Support Safety tipsStaying safe in the UK (British Council)In your accommodationAlways ask unknown visitors for identification (ID) before allowing them to enter your home - anyone from the University, City Council, or utilities companies will be able to show you their IDMake sure there is a smoke alarm in your accommodation and test it regularlyKeep your bank cards safe and separate from your pin numbersKeep your windows and doors closed and locked when you go out, even if you will only be out for a short timeKeep your valuables out of sight of windowsMake a list of your belongings, including the make, model and serial numbersTake photographs of your valuables - they may be needed for insurance purposes if anything is damaged or stolenOn-campusBeware of people following directly behind you to gain access to buildings, especially in University accommodationDo not leave valuables like mobile phones and laptops unattendedInvest in a good lock for your bicycleYou can call campus Security on 0131 650 2257 or 2222 from an internal line. These lines are manned 24 hours a day, every day (including holidays).Where you need the emergency services dial 999 and request the appropriate emergency service. After calling the emergency services please call campus Security so they are aware of the incident and can provide assistance.The University Security team is always available on campus for advice or assistance and are easily recognisable by their red jackets.University Security Section websiteMoving around the cityCharge your phone before going on a night out and be careful about how much alcohol you consumeDon't walk home alone at night - plan your journey in advance, and try to stay with friendsTell a friend where you are going, and when to expect you back - if your plans change, let them knowIf you are left on your own, stay in well-lit areas with other people around youIf you are in a bar or nightclub, don’t leave your drink unattendedKeep your money secure and out of sightBe aware of your surroundings In case of an emergency, if you have lost your wallet or find yourself stranded, Edinburgh University Students' Association has partnered up with Central Taxis to provide you with the option of paying back your fare at a later date meaning there’s no need to worry, even if you’ve got no cash or cards on you.Emergency Taxi SchemePolice Scotland - Student SafetyPolice Scotland has produced videos for students offering guidance, advice, and support on staying safe, whether on campus, online, or at social events. Watch our short videos on safety and security This short video provides general advice on keeping yourself and your belongings safe and secure. Know the lawKnow the law Some laws in the UK and Scotland are important to remember:The legal age to drink alcohol is 18The legal age to buy cigarettes and tobacco is 18You cannot smoke in public places indoors, including bars, offices and any University buildingYou must not carry illegal drugs or substances with you, or supply illegal substances to othersIt is illegal to carry any sort of weapon, including knives and pepper sprayDriving in the UKIf you plan to drive in the UK you should know the rules of the road. If you do not obey the rules you can face fines and prosecution.You must hold a full valid driving licence to drive in the UKYou must be insured to drive in the UKYour car must have valid road taxIn the UK, cars drive on the left-hand side and overtake on the rightYou must not drive while under the influence of alcohol or other drugsYou must adhere strictly to speed limits (normally 20 miles per hour in cities)You must not use your mobile phone when drivingThe Highway Code - driving rules in the UKDriving in the UK - DVLA This article was published on 2024-11-12
