Hi All....I'm planning a trip in the first 10 days of August to go to the Oregon Coast and do photos. Can't wait and have done much research. One of the things I came across in my research was safety problems. I've heard about some problems encountered at state parks by the ocean. I'll be by myself and will be doing sunset shooting. So, my question is this...Do I have concern being by myself at the parks and coast after the sun has set? I read about some "attacks" in the parks while reaching your car. Is it more prominent in some areas than others? Anything that can help me be more aware while there at the coast would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and can't wait to get there!!!
Beth, I don't live at the coast and I don't read the newspapers so I don't know how bad it is but I think generally being careful and watchful is good advice. Maybe a handy can of pepper spray would be good insurance.
I can't really speak of the northern coast, but I've visited several spots in southern Oregon on many different occasions. I've never worried about anything like crime. Unfortunately, we as photographers carry around lots of expensive and somewhat desirable stuff and being aware of surroundings comes w/ the territory. The coast is not a hot bed of criminal activity and you shouldn't lose sleep over it. Enjoy the coast, it's stunning.
I live in the Coos Bay area and the breaks ins are on the rise, if you don't need it don't bring it to the coast. According to the paper they are averaging 10-15 breakins a month. Sorry for the bad news because the coast in incredible a shame this has to happen. John
Posted by beth summer on July 22, 2007 at 12:04 AM
Thanks for the advice. John...I've read quite a bit about breakins to cars in parking lots and that is my main concern. So...I will bring the pepper spray and as you say, essentials only. Again, thanks all and I'm looking forward to photographing your amazing land (compared to the midwest!!!).
Have an awesome trip here - it's been rainy and cloudy but it breaks on the 23rd and looks great after then... maybe too great (pray for clouds !!)
There are break-in issues in the Columbia River gorge also - people with drug problems are targeting places where people leave their cars for hours to get items to sell to feed their habit. So care should be taken anywhere you travel anywhere..... sad but true... this morning in my neighborhood, 15 cop cars blocked all roads for a few hours looking for someone. Never seen that happen here before (in Los Anglels, it was a daily site). So carry what you bring or have a strong trunk
Discussion
6 repliesThere are break-in issues in the Columbia River gorge also - people with drug problems are targeting places where people leave their cars for hours to get items to sell to feed their habit. So care should be taken anywhere you travel anywhere..... sad but true... this morning in my neighborhood, 15 cop cars blocked all roads for a few hours looking for someone. Never seen that happen here before (in Los Anglels, it was a daily site). So carry what you bring or have a strong trunk
Again, have a great trip !!