Six safety tips for the Fouer

(CS/ks) While the annual Schueberfouer puts the fun into funfair for roughly two million visitors every year, the event also brings lots of opportunities for pickpockets.

To avoid a trip to the temporary police station, set up at the Fouer's main entrance, take a look at our six safety tips.

1) Leave valuables at home

Police strongly encourage visitors to leave all but essential valuables at home. For example, consider which bank card to take. By planning your budget you can also avoid taking unnecessary amounts of cash. Other documents normally stored in your wallet should also be removed. For example, if you're travelling by public transport, leave your driver's licence at home. Should a wallet be stolen this limits the amount of damage.

2) Safely store wallets and mobile phones

Keep wallets, mobile phones or other valuables safely stored away. For example, avoid keeping them in coat or trouser pockets, easily accessible for pickpockets. Backpacks should be worn on your front and shoulder bags should be carried with the clasp or closure facing your body. While not particularly attractive, fanny packs or neck pouches are a good alternative. Additionally, do not leave your bags unattended, for example when sitting down at a food stall.

3) Watch out in the crowds

Especially during busy periods pickpockets are at work, as they are less noticeable and can hide among the throngs of people visiting the Fouer. Pay especially close attention to your bags and valuables when moving in a crowd.

4) Don't fall for tricks

Be wary of pickpocket tricks. These include bumping into someone, accidentally dropping food on someone and helping clean up the mess or other such distractions.

5) Register your children with police

While this is not related to pickpockets at the Fouer, losing a child in the crowds is a nightmare scenario for many parents. Police offer to register children at their station. The kids receive a badge with a number and the phone number of police. The number correspondends to the phone number of the parents. When a child is brought to the police station this makes it easy to contact parents.

6) Abid by traffic rules

During the Fouer police are also increasingly on the lookout for traffic offenders. Parking is very limited in the area around the Fouer and paid parking hours have been extended until 1am at night. It is also forbidden to queue at the Robert Schuman parking when the underground car park is full. To avoid getting a ticket, follow traffic rules or simply use public transport.