Safety Tips for Travelers

Emergency numbers:  

Ireland has two numbers in case of emergency. These are: 

999 

or 

112 (this number works anywhere in the European Union) 

FINDING THE RIGHT PLACE TO STAY  

Check property policies  

Check the policy details of the property carefully before you book, including the payment and  damage deposit policies and additional fees section. If a host asks you for a payment that is not  outlined in the policy, don’t send it. No legitimate transaction (eg. payments and/or reservation  changes) will ever require you to specifically pay with gift cards or require you to give your credit  card details by phone, text message or email. 

Pay special attention to the amenities, house rules, payment and cancellation policies when you  read the property details. 

If you’re travelling with young children, make sure that there is sufficient childproofing at the  property you’re booking. 

Check the reviews  

Look at feedback from past travellers, including detailed reviews and ratings for things like  cleanliness and facilities. 

Misconduct  

Report it to the police first: In case of abusive behaviour from your host or a member of staff at  the property – either verbal or physical – please contact the police immediately on 999 / 112. 

Then report it to us: In the unlikely event of abusive behaviour, misconduct by the host or a  member of staff at the property or other illegal activities, it’s important for us to know. 

Laws & regulations  

When travelling to Ireland from non EU countries is advisable to check any visa requirements. 

ACCOMMODATION SAFETY TIPS FOR HOSTS  

Set clear expectations  

Be clear and informative about the features of your property and the surrounding area so guests  have reasonable expectations upon arrival. 

Property Policy 

It’s wise to establish property rules that set standards for how you’d like guests to behave. Some  common themes you can address include pets, smoking, parties and noise. You can set these in  the property policy section of your listing. 

Emergency Preparedness  

  • Make sure your emergency exit is visible, that there is nothing obstructing it and that it is  outlined in your property evacuation plan. 
  • Keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible place and check it regularly. Install smoke and  CO detectors on all floors, and consider a sprinkler system. 
  • Make sure your gas cookers, water heaters and other electricity appliances are regularly  cleaned and checked. Also make sure the valve to shut off the gas is easily accessible. 
  • Cover unused electrical outlets with safety caps. 
  • Check your appliances regularly for faulty switches, plugs and frayed cords. Replace cord and  wires once they get old, and keep them uncovered, away from other items. 
  • Double-check banisters and railings of all stairs, balconies, porches and walkways to ensure  that they’re sturdy and well-mounted. 
  • Provide your guests with contact information for local emergency rooms and paediatric centres. • Keep valuable or particularly personal belongings in a safe place. 
  • Check your insurance – The chances of guests damaging your property are extremely low but  it’s smart to insure yourself against the unexpected. Regular homeowner insurance doesn’t  always cover short-term rentals to others, so contact your insurance provider to check if you  need additional coverage. 

Misconduct  

Report it to the police first: In case of abusive behaviour from your host or a member of staff at  the property – either verbal or physical – please contact the police immediately on 999 / 112. 

Then report it to us: In the unlikely event of abusive behaviour, misconduct by the host or a  member of staff at the property or other illegal activities, it’s important for us to know. 

Keeping your damage deposit  

If you’ve already collected a damage deposit, you are within your rights to keep it in cases where  the damage is proven to be caused by the guest.