Nantong
is a safe city to visit and live in. Foreigners are
typically not targeted by criminals. This does not mean
that there is not any crime against foreigners. Anyplace that you have
people, there will be crime. Having said that, there is a
considerable amount of "social order" in Nantong, and reports of
crimes against foreigners are rare. The most commonly reported
crimes are thefts of property when the owner is not present.
The use of
or possession of drugs in China is illegal and the penalties
are stiff and severe. Do not think for a moment that just
because you are a foreigner that you or your drug use will be
ignored by the authorities.
Drunk driving,
or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also
illegal. If you are involved in an accident, and there are
injuries, you can be held liable for both criminal charges and
civil liabilities, prior to being deported. Taxi cabs are
abundant at all hours in Nantong (see
Nantong Transportation) and
inexpensive. Be smart, take a cab when impaired.
Traffic in Nantong can be "disorderly" and an ounce of
prevention is always wise.
Traffic laws in
China, and Nantong may be different from what you are used to.
Typical Western traffic courtesies are not apparent in China,
which requires strict concentration when driving any type of
vehicle. Nantong drivers seem to drive "with their horns"
which can be both distracting and a blessing when in traffic.
Whilst typical Western style traffic laws are on the books, how
they are interpreted by other drivers and the police may be a
different issue. The best advice that can be given is to
always drive defensively, and try to anticipate what
everyone around you might and possibly do. The
"right of way" is probably best described as "whoever gets to
any point first has the right of way." Whilst that may be
the unofficial policy, do not count on it.
Despite a low
crime rate, use common sense in Nantong. If you invite
crime, it can happen to you, and basically, you will find little
sympathy if you are the victim of a crime. Use the same
levels of common sense that you would use in your home country.
Lock up
your valuables.
Don't leave your cell phone laying around.
Don't wear fancy jewelry when walking around, just
because you have it.
Don't display large quantities of cash.
Walk with a group or in well lit areas at night.
Consider all stray animals to be dangerous.
Avoid letting strangers into your hotel room or apartment.
Carry your wallet in a secure place. For men, this is
usually in your front pocket.
Using basic
common sense should ensure that you are both safe and secure during
your visit to Nantong.
