RELATED LINKS Return to Washington, D.C. City Guide

It's a sad fact that the United States capital consistently ranks among the nation's most crime-ridden big cities, with FBI figures showing above-average rates of homicide, assault and property theft. Visitors are not likely to encounter significant daytime threats to their personal safety in and around the major museums, monuments and government buildings, but opportunistic criminals often see travelers as easy prey for petty theft, so an extra level of caution is in order.

— When venturing out in the evening, seek local advice about which parts of town are safe, and avoid walking alone in areas that are not well lit or where few other people are out and about. As a general rule, the roughest neighborhoods are in the Northeast and Southeast quarters.

— Even in the daytime, keep a tight grip on purses and handbags, camera and computer cases, cell phones and travel packs. To discourage pickpockets, carry your wallet and other small items in a front pocket or in a pocket that snaps or buttons shut.

— In the unlikely event that you do find yourself involved in a robbery, the Washington Metropolitan Police Department (www.mpdc.dc.gov) advises that handing over your property without resisting is the best way to avoid serious injury.

— Finally, visitors should bear in mind that strict security measures are in place at many public places in D.C., so brace yourself for frequent encounters with traffic barriers, handbag searches and airport-like metal detectors and x-ray machines. Additionally, special circumstances related to terrorism threats, V.I.P. motorcades and other high-level government activities often disrupt normal traffic flow and access to government buildings. Be prepared to alter your plans as needed.