Travel Safety

[Howard Hartman]

	City of Takoma Park Police Department 7500 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 12, 2012	Public Information Office              301/891.7142 or 240/338.2901

Travel Safety

The summer months have arrived, during which a majority of individuals and families will be going on vacation for several days at a time. Following are some things to consider to keep your home safe while away and to keep you safe on your trip.

Securing Your Residence

1. Lock all doors (including deadbolts!) and windows of your house. Also secure garages and sheds.
2. Set a few lights on timers.
3. Lock all windows and doors of your vehicle. Do not leave in plain view or store any items in your vehicle.
4. Keep gates/fences closed.
5. Stop delivery of mail and newspaper subscription(s) or have a trusted friend/neighbor collect them until you return.
6. If you will be away from your residence between 3-30 days, request the House Check service (free of charge and only if you live in Takoma Park), during which an officer will check the security of your residence every day.

Safety While Traveling (Especially overseas)

1. Pack the least possible amount and be sure your luggage stays under your control (or that of authorized personnel) at all times.
2. Keep a record with a trusted family member/friend of your itinerary, including lodgings and contact information.
3. Take only the credit/bank/identification cards that you will absolutely need. Carry traveler's checks instead of cash.
4. Mark valuable property with a unique identifier. Keep an inventory (including serial numbers) of the property - one list with you and the other list with the trusted family member/friend.
5. Study up in advance on your vacation destination. Know where you want to go and how you want to get there. Ask hotel personnel about the safety of areas.
6. If traveling as a family/group, set up rules for each day's outings on where and how you'll link up if you become separated.

Safety on Vacation (Whether local or overseas)

1. Don't leave valuables in plain view in the car, whether it be your personal vehicle or a rental.
2. Be sure to check the security of the house/hotel room - proper windows and locks.
3. Never open the door to someone you do not know or trust.
4. Never leave your room key where it could be picked up.
5. Never leave doors/windows unsecured even if you will not be gone long.
6. Make sure everyone in your family/group has the phone number and exact address (including room number if you're staying at a hotel) of your lodgings.

Questions or comments? Contact Officer C. Magnaye at 301-891-7121 or carlam@takomagov.org