What's In Your Pocket, Back Pack? and other Rome, Italy Warning Or Danger Tips

When attending a Vatican event you will go through a metal detector. In my back pack I had my trusty cheese pocket knife, and it now lies resting in the vault of the Vatican. The police will ask you to unload any sharp items, etc. and give them up before being allowed entry.
So to keep from being embarassed, leave it at the hotel.
There is good security during the Easter services. I notice several plain clothes security men acting like tourists in my area at Easter.

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Unfortunately you won't find the local police on the buses where the pick pockets are. But here is a tip: if you carry a walllet, put it in your front pants pocket and use a safety pin to close your pocket. Pick pockets go to back pockets first. If you feel someone reaching into your pocket or purse, use a loud voice and say something like, "get your hand out of my pocket!" Continue to talk loudly at this person. Make sure that other people on the bus know what is happening. They probably won't step in because the pickpockets don't get physical.
It is also interesting to see the reaction of the locals when this happens. They are so used to it, that they just stand and watch.
Don't leave your bag or camera alone on a wall, bench or set it down and step back for a photo if there are children nearby. They are good at grabbing things and running like the wind.
In a restaurant, put your camera where you can see it.
At the train station, NEVER leave your suitcase where you cannot see it ALL the time. If you turn your back for a moment, it may not be there when you turn around. Watch your bags of shopping things. Be alert. Count your change. Don't leave valuables in your hotel room. (This is why you travel lightly)
To see what police look like see the photo. They are also good for asking directions and getting advice. Use your best smile and "buongiorno..."

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