Tips for travel safety

SECURE YOUR HOME
• Have a neighbor collect mail and newspapers daily.
• Use timers to make it appear as if someone is home.
• Leave a key with a neighbor in case of an emergency. Encourage them to call the police if anyone suspicious is at your residence.
• Contact the local police department to see if they have a “Vacation Check” program.
• Leave a radio or television playing at a normal volume.
• If not already installed, purchase good quality locks and make sure they are secure before leaving.

INSPECT YOUR VEHICLE
• Be sure to check all hoses, belts, and fluids.
• Remember to check your spare tire, making sure it is in good condition. Be sure you are familiar with how to use the jack.
• If possible, have your vehicle serviced by a reputable automotive shop.
Prior to leaving, be sure to confirm all travel accommodations and provide a friend or neighbor with a copy of the route you will be taking. Remember to leave a phone number with someone after your arrival.

SAFETY WHILE TRAVELING
• Check the weather forecast prior to leaving.
• Travel during daylight hours if possible.
• Maintain at least half a tank of fuel.
• If you experience a breakdown, pull as far onto the shoulder as possible and turn your emergency flashers on. If you are uncomfortable with your surroundings, do not exit your vehicle until a law enforcement officer or tow truck arrives.
• On longer trips, be sure you have water, food, and a first aid kit in the vehicle.
• Get plenty of rest prior to traveling and be sure to plan for rest stops along the way.
• If you have a cellular phone, be sure the batteries are charged and that it is working properly.
• Try not to carry large amounts of cash. Instead, use credit cards or travelers checks.

HOTEL/MOTEL SAFETY
• Don’t leave luggage unattended. Check your baggage with the staff if you can’t go to your room immediately.
• A woman traveling alone should ask for an escort to her room.
• Do a quick security check of the room to make sure the door has a peep hole, deadbolt lock and chain lock installed, and that it works properly.
• Do not open the door to your room when someone knocks unless you are familiar with who they are.
• Report any suspicious people to management.
• Check your belongings daily to ensure nothing is missing.
• Do not leave any valuables in your room. Place them in the hotel safe or carry them with you.

*Information provided by the Augusta State University Department of Public Safety’s Public Relations and Crime Prevention Office, in conjunction with the National Crime Prevention Council.

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