Crime is not a major concern in this Florida Keys city, but use common sense: Watch out for pickpockets and purse snatchers, don't wear lots of expensive jewelry, don't leave valuables such as cameras unattended and don't leave tempting items in plain sight in parked vehicles. And if you rent a bike, make sure you lock it every time you leave it—even for just a moment.
Take extra care when traveling around by bike, scooter or electric car. Traffic gets heavy during high season, and tourists aren't always the most careful drivers.
Boating safety is very important, whether you are renting a waverunner, sunfish or small powerboat. More Florida Keys safety information is available at http://www.fla-keys.com/safetyinfo.cfm.
Dos & Don'ts
Do beware of visitors on scooters. Many of them drive as if they've never been on one before, and they seem to run in packs.
Don't plan to camp on the beach in Key West. The city doesn't allow it.
Do expect crowds in the winter months, particularly on weekends. High season runs from Christmas through Easter. Major holidays throughout the year also see many visitors, filling all available hotel rooms. Plan ahead or plan to sleep in your car.
Don't leave doors unlocked when staying in even the nicest of hotels or resorts, and do lock valuables in the hotel safe when you leave the premises. It's tempting to leave balcony or veranda doors open at night to drink in tropical breezes but doing so can be an invitation to burglars.
Do pick up one of the city's best freebies, Sharon Wells' Walking and Biking Guide to Historical Key West. It's available in stores, hotels and restaurants all over town and contains 10 self-guided tours with maps and photographs
Don't speed over the Overseas Highway, also called U.S. 1. It has a speed limit of 50 mi/80 km per hour, slowing to 35 or 45 mph/56 or 72 kph near many communities. Keep within speed limits to avoid traffic tickets that may spoil your holiday.
Do lock your vehicle when you leave it for any reason, and place valuables in the trunk or where they can't be readily seen. Be aware that an idyllic Keys vacation can be ruined by opportunists lurking, especially near bridges, just waiting for an unsuspecting sightseer to wander away from their vehicle for a better view.
Don't plan on a quick drive between Key West and Miami. Much of the road is just two lanes, and you often have to wait for designated passing areas. Plus, the roads get very clogged during peak travel times, especially holidays.
Do pull off to the side of the road if your car breaks down and put your hood up to signal that you're having trouble. If you have a cell phone, call the Monroe County Sheriff's Office (phone 305-289-2430) or the Key West Police Department (phone 305-809-1111) for help.
Don't flash large amounts of cash and do keep a firm grip on wallets or handbags when browsing for souvenirs. Muggings in Key West are not common, but you can never be too careful.
Do wear sunscreen every day, all the time. Even if the weather is overcast, you will still get a sunburn.
Don't be so distracted by the breathtakingly blue waters along the Overseas Highway that you fail to keep a safe distance from vehicles ahead. Also be aware that on Pine Key, around mile marker 32, Key deer sometimes dart out onto the road looking for handouts.
