Washington, D.C, is divided into four quadrants:

Northwest (NW), Northeast (NE), Southeast (SE), and Southwest (SW).
The American Red Cross Headquarters is located in the Northwest quadrant, close to major business, cultural, and tourist areas.

The overall travel risk in Washington, DC is low, and the vast majority of visitors experience the city safely and without incident.

As with many major cities, pockets of crime do exist, particularly involving petty theft such as stolen wallets, phones, or bags. These incidents typically occur in crowded public spaces or when valuables are left unattended. Violent crime tends to be concentrated in specific neighborhoods and is rarely directed at tourists or foreign nationals.

Travelers should exercise general urban precautions, such as:

• Staying alert in unfamiliar areas

• Avoiding poorly lit streets at night

• Keeping valuables secure and out of sight

• Using rideshare or public transit when moving through the city after dark

• Some neighborhoods—including parts of Brentwood, Anacostia, Deanwood, and Stadium-Armory—have higher reported rates of crime. Visitors are advised to use extra caution in these areas, especially at night, and consider transportation options over walking.

• Washington, D.C., is also home to vibrant and evolving communities across all quadrants, and many areas once considered high-risk are experiencing positive change. Staying informed, respectful, and aware is the best approach to a safe and enriching visit.

Demonstrations and Security Awareness
Washington, D.C., frequently hosts peaceful demonstrations, particularly near the White House, U.S. Capitol, Supreme Court, and along the National Mall. While these events are usually orderly, they can cause disruptions.

As the political center of the U.S., D.C. may be a target for domestic or international terrorism. Visitors should remain vigilant.