Travel Tips to Keep You and Your Valuables Safe

The following are tips for you to follow during your
vacation or business trip:

Before You Leave

• Stop mail and cancel all deliveries, or ask a friend or neighbor to make daily collections.
• Hide empty garbage cans.
• Have a neighbor maintain your yard.
• Put an automatic timer on lights, televisions or radios.
• Leave your blinds or shades in their normal position.
• Tell a trusted neighbor your departure and return dates. Supply that neighbor with phone numbers in case of an emergency and leave them a house key.
• Ask the police department to periodically check your residence.
• Lock all windows and doors, including the basement and garage.

While On Your Trip

• Carry a minimum amount of cash. If you use traveler’s checks, keep records of the numbers separate and in a safe place.
• Keep a careful watch on your traveling tickets. Carry them in an inside pocket.
• If driving, plan your route. Have your car serviced, including your tires. Always lock your car when it is parked and keep valuables out of sight.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Carry your cell phone.
• When you stop for the night, remove bags and other valuables from the car.
• Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries, flares, fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.

Airport Safety

•  Before leaving for the airport, familiarize yourself with its layout on the airport website.
• Leave your valuables, jewelry, designer luggage, etc., at home.
• Walk with confidence, being sure to keep your head up and looking forward at all times.
• Immediately report any suspicious activity to airport security, including any abandoned bags.
• Only use taxis and transportation services with official markings.
• Never accept gifts or packages from unknown parties.
• Never leave your luggage unattended.
• Mark your luggage so you can easily identify it, and pick it up right away.

For more information on travel safety...

American Academy of Pediatrics: www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/travelsafetytips.cfm

The Safe Traveler: www.safetraveler.com