Canada is a safe and peaceful country with low crime rates and extremely popular destination for international students for study. It has been ranked in the top ten countries in the world in terms of quality living. Canadians enjoy a variety of freedoms.
Canada is widely regarded as one of the safest places in the world to live. It is still important to follow the same common sense safety precautions in Canada that you would anywhere else in the world.
In an Emergency - If you are in trouble or witness to a crime, do not hesitate to call 911. This is a central number for police, fire, and ambulance throughout Canada. If you are robbed, do not try to argue or fight, and if you are assaulted, shout or blow a whistle to attract attention to your situation. Try to protect your body and distract the attacker so that you can escape. If the attacker asks for your purse or wallet, instead of handing it to them, throw it and run in the opposite direction.
While Walking - Many college campuses offer services such as "safety escorts" and transportation to assist students traveling around campus after dark. It’s a good idea to have the numbers for these services programmed into your phone.
When walking alone, be aware of who and what is going on around you. Avoid walking with headphones in or anything else that might distract you from your surroundings. Some areas might be safer than others. Ask advice for the best routes to take when going out. Always walk on well-lit, busy streets at night, and travel with a friend whenever possible. Avoid isolated areas, such as parks or alleys.
Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return. If you feel that you are being followed, change directions and go to the nearest store, restaurant, or public place. Avoid carrying large amounts of money or weapons. Weapons are illegal in Canada and can be used against you.
Apartment Safety - Don't let people you don’t know into your apartment building or dorm room. If you aren't expecting maintenance or a delivery, refer them to the building manager. This also means not holding the door open for people you don't know. This might feel rude, but your safety while in Canada and the safety of your neighbors or roommates is more important. Always lock your doors and windows, even when you’re at home, and look through the peephole before you open your door for someone. It’s also a good idea to get to know your neighbors, so you will have people around who can help you in an emergency.
Transportation Safety - Before leaving for your destination, make sure you are familiar with your bus route and schedule. Alternatively, taxis are a good way to get home when it is late and dark. Keep the number for a taxi company on hand, just in case. Canadian taxis should all have running meters showing the cost of the ride. Drivers will not try to negotiate a price with you.
Many public transportation systems also offer special assistance for those traveling alone at night. When taking the bus, make sure you know your route and bus schedule beforehand, and choose busy, well-lit bus stops after dark. During late hours, try asking your bus driver to stop at the street closest to your destination, so you can cut down on walking alone after dark as much as possible.