Prepare Yourself:

Travel Tips to Keep You and Your Valuables Safe

  Travel Safety

These are tips for you to follow during your vacation or business trip. Following these tips will help you enjoy your time away from your home and property:

Before You Leave

• Make sure your home looks lived in 
• Stop mail and cancel all deliveries, or ask a friend or neighbor to make daily collections.
• Hide empty garbage cans.
• Have a friend or neighbor keep your yard maintained.
• Put an automatic timer on several lights and on a television or radio.
• Leave your blinds or shades in their normal position.
• Leave a key with a trusted neighbor.
• Store valuables in a safe deposit box. 
• Tell a neighbor you trust about your departure and return dates. Supply that neighbor with phone numbers in case of an emergency.
• 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 and not protruding from a pocket or bag.
• If driving, plan out your route before you leave. Have your car serviced and in good repair, including your tires. Always lock your car when it is parked and keep valuables out of sight in the trunk or glove box. 
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Carry your cell phone with you at all times. 
• 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 the airport layout by reviewing the airport’s 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.
• Only use taxis and transportation services with official markings. Only select transportation services from the official pick-up points at the airport.
• Never accept gifts or packages from unknown parties.
• Don’t go near abandoned bags, and immediately report them to security.
• Never leave your luggage unattended and always keep an eye on it!
• Mark your luggage so you can easily identify it.
• Don’t delay picking up your luggage when you arrive.