KUWAIT: The Aware Center held an informative lecture in which Brig Gen Yahya Al-Saleh from the Ministry of Interior provided useful information for expats living in Kuwait. Many expats in Kuwait face problems and become victims of circumstances because of their lack of knowledge. The first advice that he gave expats is to carry their original identification documents with them at all times, especially the visitors. Many expats only carry a copy of their entry visas, which does not feature a photograph of that person. This isn't enough, hence they should also carry their passports or at least an original ID of their country of residence along with the visa copies," advised Al-Saleh. Many visitors also drive around Kuwait without holding valid driving licenses. "Visitors driving in Kuwait should possess valid international driving licenses. If their stays exceed three months, then they should obtain a valid Kuwaiti dr iving license," he added. Some visitors also express surprise at being arrested by the traffic police for committing traffic violations. Clarifying this fact, he said, "Any expat will be arrested and detained if he or she commits any serious traffic violations like crossing red traffic signals, driving at high speeds above 160km/h, or even reckless driving," he added. Inability to speak the local language can also cause an impediment for expats who don't speak Arabic. Not all policemen in Kuwait speak English. So sometimes misunderstandings could arise between the police and the expatriate motorists. They might use some inappropriate words that they picked up on TV, which in fact might be impolite or offensive. This might offend the expats and could cause conflicts," Al-Saleh said. Consuming alcohol is strictly forbidden in Kuwait. "Motorists are strictly advised not to drive while under the influence of alcohol even if consumed in small quantities. I advise anyone who has had a drink to stay at home as it's safer for him and others. If caught drunk while driving or even while walking in public, they will be arrested," he cautioned. He also gave an important advice to drivers, saying, "I'm sure most of you respect the maximum speed permitted while driving and observe the 120 km/h limit. However I caution all those driving at that speed in the fast lane to move aside and give right of way to oncoming cars driving at faster speeds. Such drivers might have something really important to do, or they could be simply crazy or even drunk. So to avoid problems, I advise motorists driving at slower speeds to avoid driving in the fast tracks. He also urged neighbors to mingle socially and be tolerant of each other saying, "In Kuwait the social and family way of living are very important, which is why families visit each other frequently. During such social visits one might find cars parked outside their houses or residential buildings as the visitors usually fail to find parking places. Be tolerant towards them. One should also respect your neighbors' right to privacy and peace and not disturb them by playing blaring music and even try to contr ol your pet dog's consistent barking," he pointed out. Al-Saleh also spoke about the Arab and Islamic traditions followed in Kuwait and reminded people and women in particular to dress decently. "If a lady wears short and sexy outfits in this country, she can't blame the young guy for harassing her," he said. The holy month of Ramadan is almost at our doorstep and this month in particular has some special and religious traditions that have to be followed. People are not allowed to eat, drink or smoke in public during the fasting time which is from sunrise to sunset. Anybody defying the orders will be penalized, and in some cases even arrested. You can eat, drink or smoke in the privacy of your houses," Al-Saleh concluded.