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Travel Safety Tips
Overview
Many criminals prey on and make their living off of unsuspecting travelers and tourists. By reviewing the travel safety tips below you can help to ensure a safe and relaxing trip or vacation.
Before you leave
- Notify a trusted friend and/or building manager of your travel dates and itinerary. Provide them with an emergency contact number.
- Have your mail and newspapers stopped or have a trusted friend pick them up every day.
- Put timers on your household lights to turn them on and off at appropriate times.
- Leave a radio on to give the appearance that you are home.
- Make sure that all your windows and doors are closed and secured.
Packing tips
- Pack as lightly as possible. Heavy luggage will slow you down and make you more vulnerable to pickpockets and thieves.
- Keep an inventory of the contents of your luggage in case they are lost or stolen.
- Remove old destination tags to avoid confusion.
- Place valuables in your carry on bag.
- Carry your wallet in an inside front pocket or breast pocket rather than a back pocket.
Driving tips
- Become familiar with your travel route before you start.
- Avoid traveling at night in unfamiliar areas.
- Park in well-lit areas and remove valuables from sight.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition before you leave.
Hotel safety
- Keep all hotel doors and windows locked.
- Use caution when a person knocks on your hotel door. The front desk can verify if an employee is at your door.
- Use the hotel safe deposit box to store valuables.
- Report all crimes and suspicious activity to hotel management
On the town
- Travel with a friend or group.
- Carry only the cash or credit cards you need for the day.
- Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets.
- Watch for distractions by pickpockets.
Travel fraud
- Do research before you decide on a vacation package.
- Use a reputable travel agency.
- Be wary of overly friendly strangers in public areas.
- Keep your long distance telephone card number secure. Do not allow others to observe your card number or overhear your conversation.