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Vacation Safety Tips
Your Home
Be sure to give your home the appearance of being occupied while you're away by:
- Arranging for your lawn to be cared for
- Have a trusted neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers, or have delivery suspended for the duration of your time away
- If you choose to have a neighbor care for your home while you're away, make sure they know how to contact you in case of an emergency
- Leave a key with a trusted neighbor, friend or relative
- Make sure that your doors are locked
- Never hide a key on your property; criminals are good at guessing hiding spots
- Putting lights, a radio and even the TV on timers
Driving to Your Destination
If you are driving to your vacation destination, before you leave:
- Carry a cell phone in case of emergency
- Have road flares, jumper cables and a flashlight with fresh batteries handy
- Have your vehicle serviced by a qualified mechanic
- If you miss your exit, don't panic; Sudden stops, swerving and aggressive maneuvers may place you, your family and others in danger particularly on interstate roads
- If your travel brings you to the mountains, be sure to bring chains during the winter months
- Make certain your insurance and vehicle registration is current
- Make sure a friend or family member has your itinerary
- Plan your route and be prepared for road and weather conditions to change
- Take frequent breaks to help you remain alert and avoid "highway hypnosis"
Flying to Your Destination
If you're flying to your destination:
- Arrive at the airport early to get through all the security checks and not have to rush or miss your flight
- Make sure a friend or family member has your itinerary
- Put your work address on your luggage tags
Arriving at Your Destination
When you arrive at your destination:
- Don't carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewelry
- Know how to contact the local police, fire and rescue services
- Know the rules; Laws and ordinances change from town to town and state to state; This is especially important if you're traveling abroad; A hotel concierge is an excellent source for assistance and information
- Learn the phone number and address of the place you're staying
- Never leave your valuables unattended
- Watch out for frauds and cons; They frequent vacation spots