Oklahoma is in "Tornado Alley". Check the Tornado safety page if you are visiting Oklahoma. Oklahoma possesses state-of-the-art radar and warning systems for tracking severe weather. It is, arguably, the best system in the country. A traveler can readily obtain up-to-date weather information via television, radio, or the Internet. Being vigilant of Oklahoma weather is particularly important during the spring storm season.
Crime is not a big problem in Oklahoma. It is safe to walk in the evenings in almost all Oklahoma cities. Some care should be taken in the major cities of Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Edmond, and Lawton due to a higher crime rate in some areas of these cities. There are many areas of Oklahoma City that are not well lit at night. Travelers should exercise common sense in walking in well lit areas, staying on busy streets, removing valuables from vehicles, and locking vehicles.
Most Oklahomans will readily help anyone in need regardless of whether they are known to them or a stranger. There is very little "ice" among people in Oklahoma. A traveler in need of assistance should expect a helpful and friendly attitude.
Travelers in need of assistance on the highway may contact the Oklahoma Highway Patrol by dialing *55 on their cellphones
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The Coastal Southern drawl is rare. The South Midlands accent is more common. This accent ranges from Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and into Texas. Cherokee is common in Tahlequah but English is dominant even there. The Indian tribes are completely integrated in Oklahoma and Indian languages are seldom heard outside Indian events. It is also very common to hear a "twangy" accent in most parts of the state. It sounds very similar to a Texas accent, but with a flair. A trained ear can distinguish between the Texas and Oklahoma accents. There is also a difference in accent between inhabitants of the larger cities and those of the smaller towns and rural areas.