Embassy of the United States of America in El Salvador

Personal Security Suggestions

• Keep a low personal profile.
• Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth.
• Always be alert to your surroundings.
• Avoid dark and deserted areas.
• Avoid disputes with local citizens.
• Identify safe havens (e.g., police stations, hospitals, shopping centers, gas stations with armed guards) near the places where you live, work and visit on a regular basis.
• Be alert for possible criminal/terrorist surveillance near your residence, workplace, and places you visit on a regular basis. Look for parked occupied vehicles or strange pedestrians, etc.
• Vary your daily routine and lifestyle, as much as possible. Vary your times of departure from home to work and vice versa.
• Vary your routes to work and home, and other places you visit on a regular basis.
• Know where your family members are at all times. This is especially important for children and teenagers.
• Do not accept gifts or packages or rides from strangers.
• Teach children how to call for help and get assistance in an emergency.

Vehicle Related Security Precautions

• Always drive with your windows closed and your doors locked.
• Never enter a car without checking the rear seat to ensure that it is empty.
• Avoid trips to remote areas, especially after dark.
• Select well traveled streets as much as possible.
• Keep vehicles well maintained at all times, including a useable spare tire.
• Be constantly alert to road conditions and surroundings, to include possible surveillance by car, motorcycle or bicycle. All passengers should be vigilant.
• When traveling, pre-plan your route and one alternate.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Whenever possible, drive to the center of the road, especially in rural settings, to avoid being forced off the road.
• Remain a safe distance behind the vehicle ahead to allow space for avoidance maneuvers, if necessary.
• Check side/rear view mirrors routinely.
• Never leave identifying material or valuables in the vehicle.
• Whenever possible, park near the entrance to stores or restaurants.
• Park near the guard post in parking lots, if possible.
• Avoid parking in isolated or dark areas.
• Be alert for suspicious persons when exiting or approaching your vehicle. Leave the area quickly if you see such persons and call for help.
• Whenever possible, park inside a secure parking area