General Travel Information

Follow these security tips while traveling

By Cst. Alan Towey

Every year we are told what to do with our homes when we leave on vacation (get timers for lights, have some trusted person to remove flyers and mail from mailbox, and so on). This year here are some tips to follow while you are actually on vacation.
At the hotel...

• Unpack and arrange your belongings so you can tell if anything is missing.

• Lock your suitcase so it can't be used to carry your property out.

• Always take your cash, credit cards and keys with you when you leave the room.

• Do not open your door to strangers.

• Do not leave jewelry, cameras or other valuables lying around your room. Use your hotel's safe to store your valuables and extra cash.

• Always use the hotel's auxiliary locks on doors and windows. In fact consider buying and using portable locks and alarms.

• When leaving, if the maid has cleaned your room, hang the Do Not Disturb sign on the door.

• When you go out leave a light and radio on.

• Take your room key with you. Don't leave it at the front desk.

• Be aware of your surroundings.

• Notify the manager of any suspicious persons in the area.

• Do not give out your room number to strangers.

• Report any missing items to the hotel management and police.