03/17/2017
No one wants to worry about a break-in while they're on vacation. Taking time before you leave to prepare will lower your chances of being a vacation victim.
**Before You Leave**
Make sure your home is secured. Check the locks on doors and windows and leave your home looking like it's lived in. Leave your shades and blinds on doors and windows in a position that you would normally have them. Use timers for lights, television, or radios so they turn on and off at appropriate times. Make sure your smoke and burglar alarms are functioning properly and are armed.
Turn the ringer on your telephone down low. If a burglar is around, he won’t be alerted to your absence by a ringing telephone. If you have call forwarding on your telephone, forward your calls to a trusted friend or relative. Don’t announce your absence on answering machine messages; leave your normal message on the machine.
Enlist trusted neighbors or friends to keep an eye out. Have a designated person collect your mail and any other deliveries, as well as placing trash cans out for normal pickup (and put them away after pickup). You can also have the U.S. Postal Service hold your mail while you are gone by filling out a short form. If you leave your car at home, park it as you normally would; or, ask a neighbor to park in your driveway.
**On the Road**
Try not to carry large amounts of cash; use traveler’s checks. Do not carry more credit cards than you will need. Keep a list of all traveler’s check numbers and credit card numbers in a safe place. Have telephone numbers to call if your credit card is lost or stolen. Never advertise your plans to strangers; this includes traveling routes and the amount of cash you are carrying.
Carry your wallets in an inside pocket or the front pocket of your pants. Purses should be carried under your arm with a firm grasp. Be sure your luggage is locked and labeled with your name and telephone number.
Always lock your vehicle after entering or leaving it. Park in well-lighted areas. Check the backseat before entering your vehicle. Always place valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Do not leave wallets, checkbooks, or purses in your vehicle.
**While Away**
If you are staying in a hotel or motel, take all of your luggage and valuables to your room. Unpack your luggage. Arrange all your belongings so that you will notice if anything is missing. Keep extra cash and valuables locked in the hotel safe. Never leave your keys or valuables unattended in your room. Use all locking devices in or out of your room. Know who is knocking at your door before opening it. Report any suspicious activity to hotel or motel management.
If you are going out in an unfamiliar area, ask the hotel clerk if there are areas you should avoid. Be very careful with bus, train or plane tickets. If you are a tourist, try not to advertise the fact. Don’t look lost or vulnerable. Walk with a purpose and stay alert to what’s happening around you.
