Is Wisconsin Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

There are some things to keep in mind before you travel to Wisconsin to keep you safe.

Below are tips focused on different ways to keep you and others in your party safe when traveling.

1. Avoid distractions from those standing by. If you are walking through one of the larger cities in Wisconsin and you are approached by someone, make sure to keep walking and stay aware of your situation. In these instances, the goal is to attempt to distract you so that you are taken away from others so that you can be scammed or a victim of a crime.
2. Notify your family of your itinerary. While every second you have on your trip may not be planned, you want to let someone know where you are staying, how to get in touch with you, and any scheduled events you have while on your trip. Should they lose contact with you, they will be able to easily locate you by retracing your steps and knowing where you were and are supposed to be.
3. Travel in a group. Because there is a high crime in the larger cities of Wisconsin, you do not need to travel alone when you visit the state. Try taking at least one other person or even two with you so that you are less of a target for a crime.
4. Check on the weather forecast. To prepare against any potential natural disasters, you need to check the forecast for the area where you will be traveling so you know what to expect. If a winter storm is expected to come in on the same day you are, you may need to alter your trip plans or make new arrangements.
5. Avoid areas that are roped off. If you come across an area that has a caution tape or do not enter, then do not be that person and keep it moving. By crossing over that area, you could find yourself in some danger with the terrain. In the winter, many lakes and ponds freeze over in Wisconsin, so you need to be careful when going over these areas and making sure they are solid before walking over them, for example.
6. Notify your bank and credit cards before you leave. One of the most dangerous things you can do is get to Wisconsin and have your accounts frozen due to potential fraud. It can take time for these accounts to unlock, putting you out of the funds you need. Before you leave, give them a call and let them know you plan to be traveling and where you will be.
7. Avoid outside ATMs on populated streets. If you need some quick cash on your trip, you want to avoid the outside ATMs because they lack security and protection. If the bank is open, head inside to get a cash withdrawal or visit a local supermarket where you can withdraw cash with your purchase. Even if it costs you a couple of dollars, you are inside a public place and safely withdrawing money.
8. Keep a small first aid kit with you. Whether you are out hiking, fishing, or traveling through the city, you could fall and get hurt. With a first aid kit, you can easily treat yourself until you can get to a hospital or urgent care that can do a more in-depth inspection and treatment.
9. Avoid overdrinking. While Wisconsin is home to lots of brews, and it can be found at every restaurant and bar, it is not safe to get overly drunk while you are out on the town and then try to get back to your room. There are too many safety risks and vulnerabilities that can happen when you are not thinking clearly and unaware of your surroundings.
10. Avoid taking valuables or keeping them secure. Unless it is truly necessary to take your valuables with you on the trip, you should leave them at home. However, expensive camera equipment or items purchased while on the trip can be valuable. This means that you need to store these items safely when you are traveling, and do not take them out with you unless you can keep them secure on your person.