How To Travel Safe and Secure

It is officially summer and many of you are probably thinking about taking a vacation. You've been working hard so you deserve it! When you travel (weather it is for a vacation or business) you need to make sure that you are traveling safe and secure. There are thieves everywhere and they are just looking for an opportunity to prey on unsuspecting travelers. You should always be aware and alert of your surroundings, and try not to make opportunities for thieves to strike.

The following are some suggestions about how to keep yourself and your belongings safe when you travel:

• Before leaving home- make sure all the doors and windows are locked. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your place and for help taking in the mail and newspaper.

• Make sure your luggage is easy to spot. The best way to do this is with unique luggage tags.

• Use a TSA approved lock for your luggage
  

• Carry your valuable items with you (i.e. cell phone, laptop, medications, jewelry etc.) in your carry on

• When checking in at the airport and hotels, talk quietly. Someone can overhear what you say and use it to get into your hotel room or steal your identity

• Make use of hotel room safes

• Keep your wallet close. Do not leave your pocketbook or wallet at a table, even if you just need to get up for a moment.
  

• Make use of the buddy system

• If you wouldn't do it at home, do not do it on vacation

• Travel with your health insurance card and know what medication you are taking just in case you have to visit the hospital

• Be aware of your surrounds; when at dinner or a conference know where the exits are