TRAVEL SAFETY

Travel Security

Since 9/11, there are new security requirements at all airports.  Be sure to keep your luggage unlocked and ready for inspection.

Carry medications in their original containers inside a clear plastic bag.

Take along documentation stating your need for medication or special medical conditions including metal plates and pacemakers.

Make any requests for special attention such as wheelchairs at least 48 hours in advance.

Gove a copy of your passport, credit cards and travelers check numbers to a family member or family friend.

Avoid advertising that you are a tourist by the way you dress.

Before You Leave

Travel security starts at home.  Consider the following checklist before you leave:

Keep money and valuables in the bank.

Have your Social Security or pension checks directly deposited into your bank account.

Stop delivery of your newspapers and mail.

Make sure all windows and doors are locked.  Never leave an extra key outside.  Give a spare key to a neighbor, friend, or relative for emergency purposes.

Let a trusted neighbor or the police know that you will be gone and ask them to keep an eye on your home.

Never discuss your trip in public places where others can hear that you will not be home.

Make your house look as though you are home by:

  •  leaving the lights and a radio or TV on timers.

  •  keeping the shades up.

  •  turning down the ringer on the phone.

  •  having lawnwork maintained.

Consider investing in suitcases with built-in wheels.  A small, lightweight carry-on is essential.

  •  Make sure you can handle the bag with one arm - you should always leave one hand free for handrails and other support bars.

  •  Make sure your luggage has ID tags on the inside as well as the outside.  Carry-on luggage should be in your sight at all times.

Carrying Money

Carry little cash and don't keep it all in the same place; divide it between pockets and purse or wallet.  Keep most of your funds in traveler's checks.  If you plan to use credit cards, carry only two cards.  Keep traveler's checks and credit card numbers recorded in separate places, along with the 800 numbers for reporting lost cards and traveler's checks.

  •  Keep money/valuables out of sight.

  •  Carry your wallet in an inside coat pocket, on a chain attached to your belt, in a front trouser pocket, or use a lightweight, nylon or fabric money belt.

  •  Leave your purse at home if possible.  If carrying a purse, keep it close to you.  Avoid purses with a shoulder strap.  If an attacker grabs it you could be injured.

  •  Keep receipts for purchases made in other countries.

If you are attacked:

  1.  Do not resist.  Give up possessions rather than get hurt and do so quickly.

  2.  Make a mental note of as many details as possible.

  3.  Report it to law enforcement right away.

Learn about the countries you plan to visit including the necessary paperwork and immunizations.

On the Road

If traveling on the road, study a map and know your route before leaving.

  •  Never take shortcuts.  Well-lit, well-traveled streets are usually safer.  Have an alternate route in mind in case of detours or other problems.

  •  Let someone know where you are going, what route you will be taking, and when you plan to arrive.

  •  Travel in groups of three people or more, it's safer.  Never travel alone at night.

  •  Get a tune-up before leaving.  Keep an eye on your fuel level.

  •  Know your license plate number, year, and make of your vehicle so you can report it immediately if you must give up your car.

  •  Keep rental car papers, maps, and other items of value out of plain view.

  •  Park in well-lit areas close to the building entrance.

  •  Keep luggage and packages in the trunk.

Bus, Train, Subway

  •  Sit in the front near the driver but not too close to the door.  Hold your packages.

  •  Only ask the driver for directions.

  •  While waiting for a subway or train, wait near the ticket booth until you board.

  •  Avoid entering an empty car or elevator, choose one that has several other people in it.

  •  Ask the driver to watch to make sure you make it safely to your destination.

At the Airport

  •  Keep tickets out of sight, they can be as valuable as cash.

  •  Watch out for staged situations such as someone bumping into you.  It may be a diversion for criminal activity.

  •  Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, carrying cameras, or anything else that someone would want to steal.

  •  Be prepared to have your luggage inspected.

  •  Never leave your luggage unattended.

At the Hotel/Motel

  •  Keep your room number private.  Carry your room key with you at all times.  Never leave it sitting out.

  •  Review fire procedures.  Know how many doors are between your room and the fire exit in case the hallway is smoky.

  •  Make sure your room has a deadbolt lock and a peephole.

  •  Never answer the door without knowing who is there.  Verify hotel service by calling the front desk.

  •  Leave valuables in the hotel safe.

  •  Never enter your room if the door is ajar.

  •  Inspect the entire room for hiding intruders.

  •  Report any suspicious behavior to the management right away.