Oslo - Safety tips

Children
To keep children safe, it's a good idea to prepare them in advance.
Teach children their name, address, telephone number and parents' names
Tell them that if it doesn't feel right, it's OK to say NO
Tell them not to get into the car or walk with a stranger. If your child has to be picked up by someone else, make sure you have agreed on a secret code, so they can identify the person correctly.
Tell them not to let a stranger take a picture of them.
Tell them not to approach a car if somebody is asking for directions or claims of having lost a pet.
Do not have your child wear clothing or anything else where the name is visible.
As parents, we should listen to our children carefully and watch for any warning signs they may be giving us indirectly. Make sure you know your children's friends, teachers etc.

Crime
Although Norway is considered a relatively peaceful and safe country and crime traditionally has been low, the crime rate is increasing. Crime related to drug traffic, smuggling, theft and robberies account for the most frequent criminal acts. The murder rate has been very low, but a recent tendency has shown an increase. Norway has strict gun laws, but because guns and arms are frequently used for sports and hunting, they are relatively easily accessible in the population. There is a ban against carrying firearms in public and the police is not armed (except in special situations).

Safety in the car

• Driving lights
  For safety reasons, you are required by law to keep your driving lights on all day (all year), because the daylight can be poor and the sun stays low during the winter months. Most Norwegian cars will automatically turn the driving lights on when they start the car.
• Seat belts
  In Norway you are required by law to wear set belts at all times, both in the front and in the back of the car. Children under the age of four should be seated in a child carrier or child seat, and children under the age of 12 should not sit in a seat where an airbag is installed (unless it is possible to disable the airbag). Make sure you check that the car seat you use for your children fulfills the correct safety requirements.
• Drinking and driving
  Alcohol is among the most frequent causes of traffic accidents, and the alcohol limit for driving in Norway is the same as in most European countries.
  If the police suspect you have been drinking while driving, they may ask you to do a breath test. If you are guilty of drunk-driving, you may have to pay a fine, go to prison or loose your driving licence for a year. Similar rules apply for boating and flying.