Safety in Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos islands are among the safest vacation destinations in the world. Community mobilization for low crime, tranquil waters, first-class medical facilities, and a deep commitment to keeping our cherished visitors happy and safe, make it a reliable choice when seeking a secure holiday destination.
Safety is an important issue for travelers and we get asked about it frequently. So much so, that we decided to write this article, and cover what we consider to be 3 factors falling under ‘safety’ concerns:
1. Is there local crime and should we vigilant?
Let’s consider the numbers: the local population of 30 000, benefits from the 300 000 annual tourists that fly in to enjoy a safe, pleasant environment. For most, tourism is business and ultimately feeds their family. This means taking care of visitors and making sure the overall environment is secure. Safety is undoubtedly a government priority and, recent headlines provided by the official Turks and Caicos representatives, state that overall crime in Turks & Caicos has fallen by 30% since last year. It’s important to note that this rate wasn’t high to begin with.
There’s a strong partnership between the police and the private sector that has helped build and maintain truly safe and secure communities. In fact, continued community mobilization and partnerships are the best ally against crime and most take this seriously.
Furthering the commitment to safety, in June 2018, The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force installed a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera monitoring system and a new 911 Centre in Providenciales. More than 100 CCTV high-resolution cameras went up at 50 different locations around Providenciales.
So does this mean there is no crime on the islands? Well, no. Like any place in the world, there will always be petty theft and minor incidents. Luckily, many residents enjoy their open-door type lifestyles, and watch each other closely to make sure the ill-intentioned are quickly brought to order.
That being said, do not let your guard down and take the same precautions you would take at home.
2. What if there’s a medical emergency?
There are no endemic diseases or health risks on the Turks and Caicos Islands. We’re fortunate that our environment is free of industrial pollution, and this results in clean air and water. Most visitors to the islands don’t experience any health issues. The most common issue is usually sunburn. You’re also not required to have any vaccinations to enter the country, plus none of the international or major national organizations recommend any vaccinations, prior to travel, for our destination.
Providenciales has a new hospital and several private health practices and dental clinics. Located in central Providenciales, the National Hospital on Providenciales is managed by Canadian firm InterHealth Canada and accredited by Accreditation Canada International. Built in 2010, the complex includes operating rooms, CT and MRI scanners, dialysis centers and other departments. Over thirty physicians are employed between the Providenciales and Grand Turk hospitals, and international specialists and consultants visit regularly.
While local medical facilities are able to handle most situations that arise, emergencies that cannot be handled are stabilized, and flown by air ambulance to Miami or Nassau.
There are also a host of integrative medicine and alternative treatment centers, if this is your inclination. Everyone is well served on Providenciales.
3. Are there any natural dangers to consider in that area?
There’s something very comforting about being able to see your feet at the bottom of the ocean, don’t you think? Small waves, and a crystal clear sea, add a sense of security to all your water activities on the island, plus you won’t be crossing paths with any dangerous animals.
If you add reliably warm temperatures, little rain, and slim chances of a storm during hurricane season, you’re choosing one of the safest island holiday destinations in the world.
We understand safety is important to you
As the owner and property manager of White Villas, I make it a point to make frequent visits, and I’m never far away. People and vehicles are always onsite and we have 9 cameras around the property. We want you to feel welcome, at home, and secure at all times.
Hope to see you soon,
Simon, Pina and Max
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