1. PERSONAL SECURITY AWARENESS ADVICE FOR UNCSD PARTICIPANTS
Security Situation
Rio de Janeiro is a very pleasant place to visit and the Barra da Tijuca neighbourhood,
home of Riocentro, is normally safe with a relatively low crime rate, in relation to the rest
of the city. However, personal security awareness needs to be exercised there and in other
parts of the city.
As in other large urban metropolises, street crime can be a problem in Rio. With the
United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development expected to attract thousands of
participants, it is imperative to maintain the requisite level of security awareness at all
times and follow security precautions while visiting Rio.
Iconic Tourist Sites/Places of Interest
When visiting locations be mindful that although there is a significant police presence at
“Pão de Açúcar” (Sugar Loaf), “Corcovado” (Christ the Redeemer) and other tourist
sites, street crime, such as purse snatching and pick pocketing is a concern. Airports,
hotels and bus stations are other places where such activity can occur, and pickpockets
can be of either sex. Remember, that although you are a visitor, looking and acting like a
tourist will attract unwanted attention. Stay with a group of people as much as possible
and limit the times you venture out alone. Avoid isolated areas on the beach or in the
rainforest. Always let someone know where you are going.
Expensive electronic items such as iPhones, cameras and jewelry should be used
discreetly and, if possible, avoided. iPhones in particular are items of great interest and
value to robbers, be careful when you use it and where you keep it on your person.
Instead of hanging your camera around your neck, keep it in your pocket. You may wish
to refrain from wearing expensive jewelry or expensive looking watches, anything that
contains gold, silver, precious stones or diamonds. High value watches such as Rolex,
Cartier etc. are especially attractive; wearing more jewelry than a simple gold wedding
band will raise your profile.
Hotel Safety
Verify who is at your door before you open the door and verify with the front desk. Upon
check-in, study the fire evacuation routes and know the location of the nearest fire alarm
and fire extinguishers. In case of fire, do not use the elevator; follow the emergency
escape route displayed on the emergency card and evacuation signs, leave your
belongings. In case of emergency, remain calm and follow the security staff instructions.
ATM Machine Usage
Use the ATMs inside shopping malls, airport, hotels or inside a bank; avoid those located
on the street. Try to do so in a group and be weary of anyone around you.
Be extra careful with your personal identification number (PIN), check the ATM machine
carefully, especially if the place to insert your card is loose or damaged. If the ATM
looks suspicious, look for another one. Check your bank statement regularly to check for
any inaccuracies. There are ATMs inside Riocentro.

2. Dos
Always carry emergency contact information with you. (see below)
Stay near people/populated areas as much as possible. If you feel uncomfortable for any
reason, immediately seek safe haven in a building with people.
Avoid walking the streets at night – take a taxi to your desired location, and return in a
taxi as well. Public buses should be used with extreme caution at night
Carry only small amounts of cash and only the debit or credit cards you may need.
Unsecured, bulging wallets and loosely carried purses will attract a criminal’s attention.
Return to the hotel if you make purchases and secure the items in your hotel instead of
walking on the street with the items you bought.
Use a money belt or a concealed money pouch for passports, cash and other valuables.
Use only registered or radio taxis, ask in your hotel. Keep doors locked, windows closed
and valuables out of sight. A common trick for a thief is to reach through a window, grab
a watch from a person’s wrist, or a purse/package from the seat while the vehicle is
driving slowly or stopped in traffic.
Always let someone know where you are going. Keep a separate photocopy of your
passport in your hotel room; you will need to contact your nearest embassy or consulate
if you lose it. You may wish to carry a photocopy of the main page of your passport.
Do Not’s
Visits to the disadvantaged neighbourhoods, known as “favelas”, are not recommended.
Never accept a ride from someone you have just met, even if they seem helpful/friendly.
Do not accept a drink from strangers or leave your drink unattended while in lounges.
Do not take anyone you do not know to the place where you are staying.
Never swim in the ocean alone.
Lastly, if confronted by an armed criminal, stay calm and simply hand over your
valuables. Do not resist, your life is more valuable than any material possession. Many
assailants have weapons, may be under the effects of a controlled substance, and will not
hesitate to harm you if you resist.
Try to follow these security and safety tips, raise your personal security awareness by
being vigilant, in other words be streetwise, be safe and enjoy your stay!
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY PLEASE CONTACT:
POLICE: 190
POLICE UNIT FOR TOURISM: (+) 55 2332 2924
FIRE SERVICE: 193
AMBULANCE SERVICE: 192