With millions of visitors each year and a growing resident population, Myrtle Beach and Horry County face unique public safety challenges. Here are evidence-based safety tips from local law enforcement and community safety experts.
Personal Safety
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
- Stay alert when walking, especially at night
- Avoid wearing headphones or being distracted by phones in unfamiliar areas
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation
- Use the buddy system, especially when visiting entertainment districts
- Let someone know your plans and expected return time
- Consider ride-sharing services rather than walking alone late at night
- Never leave valuables visible in your car
- Lock your vehicle every time, even for short stops
- Park in well-lit, populated areas when possible
- Consider using hotel valet services when available
- Use all available locks (deadbolts, security chains)
- Don't leave sliding doors unlocked, even on upper floors
- Use hotel safes for valuables and important documents
- Be cautious about sharing your room number or location on social media
- Never leave belongings unattended on the beach
- Stay in designated swimming areas with lifeguards when possible
- Be aware of rip current conditions and warnings
- Limit alcohol consumption, especially in the sun and heat
- The Ocean Boulevard area can get crowded - stay with your group
- Be cautious of over-serving at bars and restaurants
- Use official taxi services or ride-sharing apps
- Keep emergency contacts readily available
- Don't engage with aggressive panhandlers or street performers
- Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark
- Be wary of street gambling or "games" - these are often scams
- Don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended
- 911 for emergencies
- Horry County Sheriff: (843) 915-5350
- Myrtle Beach Police: (843) 918-1382
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
- Weather radar apps (for severe weather alerts)
- Ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- Emergency contact apps with local numbers
- Unusual behavior around homes or businesses
- Suspected drug activity
- Individuals who appear to be in distress
- Abandoned or suspicious packages
- Horry County Emergency Management
- SC Crime Victim Services
- Myrtle Beach Safety Tips
Travel in Groups When Possible
Property Protection
Vehicle Security
Hotel and Rental Property Safety
Beach and Water Safety
Beach Awareness
Tourist District Safety
Entertainment Areas
Avoid High-Risk Situations
Emergency Preparedness
Know Who to Call
Important Apps to Have
Reporting Suspicious Activity
Help keep the community safe by reporting:
Remember: It's better to report something that turns out to be harmless than to ignore something that could prevent a crime.
Additional Resources
Staying informed about local arrest patterns and crime trends can also help you make safer choices. Our arrest records database provides transparency about criminal activity in the area, helping residents and visitors stay informed about public safety in their community.