Travel Safety

Six Ways To Ruin a Good Vacation

1. Leave your backdoor unlocked.
2. Don't turn on the alarm system.
3. Don't tell anyone in your neighborhood that you are going away.
4. Carry lots of cash.
5. Let the lawn grow until you get back.
6. Hide extra cash and plane tickets in the drawer when you leave the hotel room.

Before You Leave...

• Stop mail and newspapers or ask a neighbor you trust to pick them up daily
• Use timers on household lights
• Make sure all your door and window locks are in working order and used
• Arrange to have the grass mowed while your away
• Put a radio or TV on a timer so it looks like someone is home
• Activate your home alarm ( if you have one)
• If the local police offer it place your house on the vacation check list

Packing Your Bags

• Clean out your wallet before you go. Take only essential information and credit cards.
• Use traveler's checks instead of cash.
• Use a "fanny pack" instead of a purse. Carry your wallet in your front pocket.
• Use plain luggage instead of designer, this can attract attention to your items.
• Keep a record of what is in each bag with you in case of theft.

Out and About

• Don't flash your cash.
• Don't display expensive jewelry or other items that might draw attention.
• Stick to well lighted areas and well traveled streets.
• Always lock your car, keep valuables out of sight and locked in the trunk.
• Protect yourself against carjacking and auto theft.

In Your Hotel

• Always lock your door.
• Only open the door to people you know.
• Use the hotel safe for valuable items.
• Locate the fire exits, elevators, and public phones. Plan the best way out of the building.
• Inventory your belongings daily. Arrange items son you will know if anything is missing.
• Be observant. Report anything suspicious to management.

Airline Travel

• Allow extra time arrive early.
• Keep your baggage with you at all times.
• Bring a government issued photo ID.
• Don't carry weapons in your carry on luggage.
• Don't carry prohibited items with you.
• Remember all people must undergo the screening process.
• All items must be X-rayed.
• Don't let anyone but airport personnel handle your bags.
• Don't take any bags from anyone you don't know

Traveling by Car

Items in a Safety Kit:

• Cellular phone
• Flares or reflectors
• Send help or call police sign
• White flag or handkerchief
• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Reflective tape

On the Road:

• Be familiar with you travel route before you start.
• Make sure your car is in good condition before you start.
• Keep maps concealed.
• Keep the car doors locked while you are driving.
• Store the luggage in the trunk.
• Park in well light areas.
• Beware of the bump and run robbery.
• Carry a safety kit with you.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• If your car breaks down place a white cloth on your antenna.
• If you stop overnight remove the bags from the car

Tips provided by National Crime Prevention Council.