|
Vacation and Travel Tips
 An empty house is a tempting target for a burglar. Us this checklist
for tips to help safeguard your home while you're away. Staying
alert to safety may make your vacation more pleasant and enjoyable.
Being a victim of a crime is no fun. RELAX, have FUN, and be SAFE!
- Have good locks on all doors and windows and
USE THEM!
- Ask a neighbor to watch the house while
you're away. It's a good idea to leave your vacation address and
telephone number with a neighbor so you can be reached in case
of an emergency.
- Never leave your house key hidden outside
your home.
- Stop all deliveries, or arrange for a
neighbor to pick up your mail, newspapers and packages.
- Arrange for someone to mow your lawn, rake
leaves and maintain the yard to give the home a lived-in look.
- Plug in timers to turn lights, a radio or
television on and off at appropriate times. This helps to
disguise the fact that you are away.
- Turn the bell or ringer on your telephone
down low. If a burglar is around, he won't be alerted to your
absence by a ringing phone.
- Don't announce your absence on answering
machine messages.
- Leave your blinds, shades and curtains in a
normal position. Don't close them unless that is what you do
when you are home.
- Close and lock garage doors and windows. Ask
a neighbor to occasionally park in your driveway. If you leave
your car at home, park it as you normally would. Vehicles parked
outside should be moved occasionally to appear that they are
being used.
- Secure storage sheds, attic entrances and
gates.
- Tell your local police you plan to be away.
Patrol officers may have the opportunity to periodically check
your home.
- Engrave your valuables as recommended in
Operation I.D. This simple step will allow your stolen property
to be identified and returned to you if recovered by the police.
- Travel Safely!
- At home or away, staying alert can save the
day!
- If you are driving, make sure your vehicle
has been properly serviced and is in suitable condition for the
journey.
- Try to have specific directions and routes to
your destination.
- If you get lost, call the local police for
directions or assistance.
- Always keep your vehicle doors and windows
locked.
- At stop lights and other traffic delays,
leave enough space in front of your vehicle so that you have an
escape option in case of an emergency.
- Let someone know the route you intend to
travel and your itinerary. This will help authorities in
locating you if there is a need to do so.
- Plan your trip carefully and allow for
factors such as weather, fatigue, facilities for lodging, food
and fuel. Be sure you have sufficient finances, either cash,
travelers checks or credit cards.
- Ask the hotel or motel staff about their
security measures so you know what to expect.
- Use the hotel safe to store your valuables
during your stay.
|
