## Is Atlantic City a Safe Place to Visit?
Atlantic City is a popular tourist destination known for its casinos, beaches, and nightlife. However, the city has also been plagued by crime in recent years. In 2019, Atlantic City had a murder rate of 42 per 100,000 people, which is more than double the national average. The city also has a high rate of violent crime, including robbery, assault, and carjacking.
So, is Atlantic City a safe place to visit? The answer is: it depends.
**If you are a tourist who is planning to stay in the city’s main tourist areas, such as the casinos and the Boardwalk, then you are likely to be safe.** These areas are heavily patrolled by police, and there is a strong security presence. However, you should still be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from crime.
**If you are planning to venture into other parts of the city, such as the residential neighborhoods, then you should be more cautious.** These areas are not as well-patrolled by police, and there is a higher risk of crime. If you are walking around at night, be sure to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone.
Here are some tips for staying safe in Atlantic City:
* **Be aware of your surroundings.** Pay attention to the people and things around you. If you see something suspicious, report it to the police.
* **Don’t walk around alone at night.** If you must walk alone, stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking through deserted areas.
* **Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables.** Keep your wallet and other valuables in a safe place.
* **Be careful when using ATMs.** Use ATMs that are located in well-lit areas and avoid using them at night.
* **Report any crimes to the police.** If you are the victim of a crime, report it to the police immediately.
**Overall, Atlantic City is a safe place to visit if you take precautions to protect yourself from crime. By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.**
## Safety Concerns for Tourists
In addition to the general safety concerns listed above, there are some specific safety concerns that tourists should be aware of. These include:
* **Pickpocketing.** Pickpocketing is a common problem in Atlantic City, especially in crowded areas such as the casinos and the Boardwalk. Be sure to keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings.
* **Scams.** There are a number of scams that target tourists in Atlantic City. These scams can include everything from fake tickets to bogus time-shares. Be wary of anyone who approaches you on the street and offers you a deal that seems too good to be true.
* **Drugs and alcohol.** Drugs and alcohol are a major problem in Atlantic City. Be careful about what you drink and who you associate with.
* **Prostitution.** Prostitution is illegal in Atlantic City, but it is still a problem in some areas of the city. If you are approached by a prostitute, do not engage with them.
**By being aware of these safety concerns, you can help to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.**
## Conclusion
Atlantic City is a safe place to visit if you take precautions to protect yourself from crime. By following the tips in this article, you can help to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime and have a safe and enjoyable visit to the city.
**Additional Resources**
* [Atlantic City Police Department](https://www.atlanticcitypd.org/)
* [New Jersey Office of the Attorney General](https://www.nj.gov/oag/)
* [National Crime Prevention Council](https://www.ncpc.org/)
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