Burlington Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Generally Safe

Burlington, Vermont is one of the safest cities in the United States, offering travelers a welcoming and secure environment. This charming lakeside city consistently ranks among the nation's safest metropolitan areas, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. The city's compact downtown, pedestrian-friendly streets, and active local police presence contribute to its overall safety profile. While Burlington maintains its reputation as a safe destination, visitors should still exercise standard travel precautions. The city experiences typical urban challenges including occasional property crimes, particularly in tourist-heavy areas and during peak summer months. Winter weather conditions can pose hazards for those unfamiliar with cold climates, and Lake Champlain activities require appropriate safety awareness. Overall, travelers to Burlington can feel confident exploring the city's attractions, restaurants, and outdoor spaces. The local community is generally friendly and helpful to visitors, and the city's infrastructure is well-maintained and reliable. By following common-sense safety practices and being aware of seasonal considerations, visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable experience in Vermont's largest city.

Burlington is a very safe destination with low crime rates, though visitors should take standard precautions against petty theft and be prepared for winter weather conditions.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Emergency Services (Police/Fire/Ambulance)

911

Primary emergency number for all urgent situations; dispatchers will route to appropriate service

Burlington Police Department (Non-Emergency)

(802) 658-2704

For non-urgent police matters, reports, or general inquiries

University of Vermont Medical Center

(802) 847-0000

Main hospital switchboard for general inquiries and directions

Poison Control

1-800-222-1222

24/7 poison emergency hotline

Vermont State Police

(802) 878-7111

For incidents outside Burlington city limits

Lake Champlain Coast Guard

(802) 557-2406

For water emergencies on Lake Champlain

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Burlington.

Healthcare System

Burlington has excellent healthcare facilities with the University of Vermont Medical Center serving as the region's premier hospital and Level 1 trauma center. The U.S. healthcare system is private and can be extremely expensive for those without insurance.

Hospitals

University of Vermont Medical Center (111 Colchester Avenue) is the primary hospital serving Burlington and the region. The emergency department operates 24/7. Several urgent care facilities are available for non-emergency medical needs, including UVM Health Network Urgent Care locations throughout the area.

Pharmacies

Multiple pharmacy chains operate in Burlington including CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and Kinney Drugs. Many are open extended hours, with some CVS locations offering 24-hour service. Prescription medications require a valid U.S. prescription. Over-the-counter medications are widely available.

Insurance

Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is STRONGLY recommended. Medical care in the U.S. is extremely expensive without insurance. A simple emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical issues can result in bills exceeding $100,000.

Healthcare Tips

Carry your insurance information and any necessary prescriptions at all times
Bring sufficient quantities of prescription medications as they may not be easily replaced
Keep a list of your medications (generic names) in case you need medical attention
For minor ailments, consider urgent care facilities which are less expensive than emergency rooms
Ensure your travel insurance includes medical evacuation coverage
Save the address of your nearest pharmacy and urgent care facility to your phone

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Petty Theft and Car Break-ins

Low to Medium Risk

Occasional theft from vehicles and bicycles, particularly in tourist areas and parking lots. Pickpocketing is rare but can occur in crowded areas during festivals and events.

Never leave valuables visible in parked cars, lock vehicles and bicycles with quality locks, use hotel safes for passports and extra cash, keep bags and belongings close in crowded areas

Winter Weather Hazards

Medium to High (Seasonal) Risk

Snow, ice, and extreme cold from November through March can create dangerous conditions for those unprepared. Slippery sidewalks, icy roads, frostbite, and hypothermia are real concerns.

Wear appropriate winter clothing including insulated jacket, boots with good traction, hat, and gloves. Walk carefully on icy surfaces. Check weather forecasts daily. Allow extra travel time. Dress in layers.

Lake Champlain Water Safety

Medium (Seasonal) Risk

Cold water temperatures, sudden weather changes, and strong currents can pose risks for swimmers and boaters. Water remains dangerously cold even in summer months.

Wear life jackets when boating, swim only in designated areas, check weather before water activities, never swim alone, be aware that water temperature can cause hypothermia even in summer

Wildlife Encounters

Low Risk

While rare in the city itself, black bears, coyotes, and other wildlife can be encountered on hiking trails and in surrounding areas. Tick-borne illnesses (Lyme disease) are present in Vermont.

Use insect repellent, check for ticks after outdoor activities, make noise while hiking, keep food secured, maintain distance from wildlife, don't feed animals

Impaired Drivers

Low to Medium Risk

Vermont has issues with impaired driving, particularly on weekend evenings and during events. Risk increases during winter months when road conditions are already challenging.

Drive defensively, use ride-sharing services or taxis if drinking, be extra cautious on Friday and Saturday nights, report suspected impaired drivers to police

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Vacation Rental Scams

Fraudulent listings for vacation rentals that don't exist or aren't actually available. Scammers request payment via wire transfer or untraceable methods for properties they don't own.

Book through reputable platforms with payment protection, verify property ownership, never wire money directly to individuals, read reviews carefully, be suspicious of deals that seem too good to be true

Ticket Scalping/Fake Event Tickets

Particularly common during UVM hockey games, concerts, and summer festivals. Sellers offer counterfeit or already-used tickets at inflated prices.

Purchase tickets only from official vendors or verified resale platforms, meet sellers in public places, verify tickets before paying when possible, use credit cards for purchase protection

Panhandling Aggressive Requests

While most panhandlers are genuine, some may use aggressive tactics or sob stories to pressure tourists into giving money, sometimes working in teams.

Politely decline and keep walking, don't open your wallet in public, consider donating to local charities instead, be aware of your surroundings

Overpriced Services

Some taxi services or tour operators may overcharge tourists unfamiliar with local rates, taking longer routes or adding unnecessary fees.

Use ride-sharing apps with transparent pricing, research typical costs beforehand, ask for estimates before services, read reviews online

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General Safety

Burlington is very walkable; most attractions are within walking distance of downtown
The city is well-lit at night, but still be aware of your surroundings
Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
Inform someone of your daily plans, especially if hiking or doing outdoor activities alone
Trust your instincts; if something feels unsafe, remove yourself from the situation

Transportation Safety

Use Green Mountain Transit (GMT) buses for affordable public transportation
Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are available and generally safe
If renting a car in winter, ensure it has winter tires or all-season tires
Park in well-lit areas and use parking garages when available
Don't leave GPS devices or rental car documentation visible in vehicles
Be extremely cautious driving in winter; allow 2-3 times normal travel time during snow

Outdoor Activities

Download offline maps before hiking as cell service can be spotty
Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
Carry water, snacks, and basic first aid supplies
Wear appropriate footwear for terrain and weather conditions
Check trail conditions before heading out, especially in shoulder seasons
Apply tick repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities

Accommodation Safety

Use hotel safes for valuables, passports, and extra cash
Verify identity of anyone claiming to be hotel staff before opening door
Know the location of emergency exits in your accommodation
Keep your room number private; don't say it aloud in public areas
If staying in vacation rentals, ensure they have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Money and Valuables

Carry minimal cash; credit cards are widely accepted everywhere
Use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, busy areas
Keep copies of important documents separate from originals
Use RFID-blocking wallets if concerned about electronic theft
Don't display expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronics unnecessarily

Food and Water Safety

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Burlington
Food safety standards are high; restaurants are regularly inspected
Check restaurant inspection scores online if concerned
Burlington has excellent farm-to-table dining; food allergies are generally well-accommodated
Inform servers of any food allergies clearly

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Burlington is very safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The city has a progressive culture with strong respect for women's rights and safety. Harassment is uncommon, and women regularly walk alone during daytime hours without incident. As with anywhere, increased awareness is recommended after dark, particularly in less populated areas.

Solo women travelers report feeling very comfortable in Burlington
Church Street Marketplace and downtown areas are well-populated and safe for evening strolls
Use ride-sharing services or taxis rather than walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas
The local community is generally respectful; report any harassment to police
Join group activities or tours to meet other travelers if traveling solo
Trust your instincts; Burlington locals are typically friendly and helpful if you need assistance
Women-owned businesses and feminist bookstores create welcoming spaces
Hotel staff can provide guidance on safe routes and areas for evening activities

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Vermont has strong LGBTQ+ protections and was the first state to recognize civil unions (2000) and among the first to legalize same-sex marriage (2009). Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is illegal in housing, employment, and public accommodations.

Burlington is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the United States
The Pride Center of Vermont (208 Flynn Avenue) offers resources and community events
Annual Pride festivities typically occur in September
Many businesses display Safe Space stickers indicating LGBTQ+ welcoming environments
Gender-neutral restrooms are increasingly common in public spaces and businesses
No special precautions needed; LGBTQ+ travelers report feeling very comfortable
The city has LGBTQ+-owned businesses, bars, and gathering spaces
University of Vermont has strong LGBTQ+ student organizations and resources

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is HIGHLY recommended for all visitors to Burlington and the United States. While Burlington is safe, medical emergencies can happen anywhere, and U.S. healthcare costs are among the highest in the world. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical issues can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Winter activities and outdoor recreation also carry injury risks. Trip cancellation coverage is valuable given unpredictable winter weather that can disrupt travel plans.

Comprehensive medical coverage with minimum $100,000 limit (higher is better) Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage Trip cancellation and interruption insurance (particularly for winter travel) Coverage for winter sports if skiing or snowboarding Baggage loss and delay protection 24/7 emergency assistance hotline Coverage for rental car damage (check if your credit card provides this) Adventure sports coverage if planning outdoor activities like kayaking or mountain biking

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