Crime, climate and creatures are the sources of this city’s safety concerns.  Downtown and central Phoenix have moderate crime rates, so care should be taken when out alone or late at night.  Be sure to lock car doors and don’t leave valuables in plain view.   Police and other official city guides dressed in orange shirts patrol downtown by foot and bicycle throughout the day and in the evenings, and they are glad to help with any safety concerns you may have. 

Some special precautions should be taken when visiting the mountain preserves.  Be sure to take plenty of water with you, as dehydration can quickly arise in the arid climate.  Avoid going out in excessive heat; early morning or late afternoon excursions are best.  Don’t overexert yourself on strenuous trails, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.  Take plenty of breaks to rest in the shade and drink water.  Also, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and scorpions.  Although you are not likely to encounter them, and will probably not have any problems even if you do, they are poisonous and you should get immediate medical care if you are bitten or stung.

When driving in Phoenix, the sun can be blinding, especially around sunrise and sunset and along roads that run east and west.  Always have sunglasses available.