For the most part the Virgin Islands are low in crime and much of what there is is drug- related, with theft and occasional muggings the main problems. The poorer areas of main towns and villages are, as you'd expect, the crime hot spots, so you should stick to well-lit, busy main roads after dark in all towns in the Virgin Islands. Furthermore, don't pick up hitchhikers, even if it's common for locals to do this - they probably know who they're picking up.

For emergencies , you can dial 911 in the USVI on any telephone for fire, police or medical assistance. In the BVI the number is 911, or 999 on some islands. For marine emergencies , call Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) by dialling 999 or via VHF Ch.16.