Vacation Crime Prevention Tips

[Howard Hartman]

Vacation Crime Prevention Tips

The Rockville City Police Department has provided a few vacation crime prevention tips:

Hotel and Motel Security

• If you are staying in a hotel or motel, take all your luggage and valuables to your room. Do not leave your valuable in your vehicle.
• Never leave money, checks, credit cards, car keys or valuables in the room. Take them with you, or if available, use the hotel’s master security boxes that are monitored 24/7.
• Determine the most direct route to and from your room, to the fire escapes, elevators and nearest telephone.
• Keep daily checks on your belongings.
• Unpack and place belongings in the closet and dresser. Arrange your things so you’ll know if anything is missing.
• Report any lost or stolen items to the hotel/motel management and to the police.

Sight Seeing

• Ask for directions at the hotel/motel to the attractions you want to visit.
• If you are going out in an unfamiliar area, ask the hotel clerk if there are areas you should avoid.
• Select tour guides carefully. Get recommendations, visit local government agencies or chambers of commerce
• Do not advertise that you are a tourist. Don’t look lost or vulnerable. Walk with a purpose and stay alert to what is happening around you. If you get lost, find an open business and ask for directions.
• Do not leave brochures or maps inside your vehicle in plain view. Place them in your glove box or trunk.
• Only carry with you the cash you will need, and only in small denominations. If older children go off separately, be sure they understand the importance of keeping track of time and returning promptly at the appropriate hours.