Pietermaritzburg maintains a moderate safety level. During the day, usual precautions like avoidance of flaunting valuable possessions and vigilant awareness of your surroundings are generally enough to ensure safety. Potential safety issues related to petty theft and pickpocketing could be encountered, particularly in crowded areas. At night, it is advisable not to walk alone and to opt for reliable transportation and well-lit areas. Emergency services are available and effective but it's always better to be cautious.