Consulate seminar offers advice for British nationals in Spain

THE British Consulate in Malaga organized a seminar for British nationals abroad in La Cala de Mijas.

Representatives from various care organizations and businesses that could ‘pass’ the information along to the general public were invited.

The need for this became apparent after the consulate discovered that the majority of British people “thought the number to call in Spain in the case of an emergency was 999,” said Consul Steve Jones.

There are various numbers to call for the different security forces, but the “most important number to remember is 112 for Emergency Services and they can contact the other necessary officials”.

National Police, Guardia Civil Traffic Police, the Mijas Town Hall Foreigners Department, a local funeral director and lawyer spoke on various issues.

All residents are advised to register themselves at their town hall so that they can access all the social services and benefits available to them and be advised on the various issues affecting expatriates.

Crime

When a victim of a robbery or burglary things often happen so fast it is difficult to remember the details, but even the smallest of detail can help officers find the culprits, according to Lidia Avivar Castro from the National Police.

For example height, body shape, hair colour, skin colour, accent, language spoken, etc.

If a victim of a sexual assault it is important to report the crime straight away.

“Even though you may feel like it, so not wash your body or clothes,” said Avivar.

A medical examination needs to be done to gather DNA and clothes will also be sent for testing.

The DNA is matched to a database and if there is no match it will be archived.

Driving

Guardia Civil Traffic Police – the ones wearing the yellow reflective jackets – are the only ones who can ask non-residents for cash payment for fines.

Residents will get a ticket and go through the system like a Spaniard.

The legal alcohol level limit is 0.25mg/litre or 0.15mg/litre fro learner drivers, public service and heavy vehicle drivers.

If over 0.60mg/litre it is considered a crime and the person will be arrested.

Important numbers:

112 Emergency Services
062 Guardia Civil
091 National Police
092 Local Police

Top Tips

Street crime:

• Pay attention in crowded places; pickpockets abound.
• Keep ones handbag on the wall side and close to the body.
• When taking a lot of money out of the bank, take a trusted friend.
• Do not resist a mugging; your wellbeing is more important.

Burglaries:
• Have ID details of anybody working in the home.
• Take photographs of all valuables and write down any reference numbers.
• Install security measures including alarms and high resolution cameras.
• If on holiday do not make it common knowledge and leave a key with a trusted friend to bring in mail, etc.

Necessary documents (or copies stamped by Malaga Traffico) to carry when driving:

• NIE or passport.
• Driver’s license.

Spanish plated cars
• Tarjeta Inspecion Technica
• Permiso de Circulacion
• Valid insurance policy (optional, but advisable)

UK plated cars

• Valid MOT Certificate
• Vehicle Registration Certificate
• Valid insurance policy

By Nicole Hallett