Canada is considered one of the safest destinations in the world. Crime rates are low, police are trusted, easy to contact, and quick to respond. No matter where you travel some common-sense is an important part of personal safety and the security of your property.
Don’t leave handbags or luggage unattended. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight in a parked vehicle, even if the vehicle is locked. Protect your valuables and passport and don’t carry your original passport with you on a day to day basis, instead carry a copy until you have obtained local identification documents. Before you leave home make certified copies of important documents and leave them with a trusted family member in the event you lose documents while abroad.
Be sure you have the contact information for your nearest consulate or embassy and keep the information handy in case you have an emergency that requires their intervention. A list of Consulates in Nova Scotia can be found here:
If you are the victim of a crime or have another emergency you can dial 911 from any telephone to be connected with the police.
New drivers’ courses are common in most cities and are an excellent idea to help familiarize yourself with local conditions. Driving in winter, especially in Eastern Canada, can be very dangerous. It’s important to follow the rules of the road at all times, but even more so when there’s a possibility of snow or icy roadways. Be sure your car is equipped with the appropriate tires for that season, and adjust driving according to the conditions. In Nova Scotia you can dial 511 for road conditions throughout the province.
In Nova Scotia it’s also common to see wildlife along the sides of highways, so pay attention to the sides of the road.
If you plan on camping or hiking it’s important to research the region and get information from Parks Canada on what is allowed in each park and how to stay safe while enjoying our beautiful outdoors. If there are posted safety recommendations please follow them, they are for your protection.
You can read about Nova Scotia’s parks and find contact information and frequently asked questions on the Parks Canada website: