You need to make vacation safety part of the planning process. Simple planning before and during your family's vacation reduces potential problems, ensures memorable times and guarantees a safe return home.
Before Take Off
Take a few precautions around your home before you leave on a jet plane. This will thwart possible disasters that might occur. Do not hide a key outside your residence. Instead, leave the key with a trusted neighbor, family member or house sitter. You should consider having this person check on your house each day that you are away. Leave your travel plans with this person, in case of an emergency. Finally, check all locks on doors and windows before departure.
Have mail delivery halted until your return. A quick visit to the post office will take care of this. Also, contact any newspapers or other publications delivered to your home and put them on hold.
Set a timer to turn on lights at a designated time. You can also program your TV or radio to turn on at a prescribed time each evening and shut off in the morning.
In Flight
Once you've arrived at your destination, plan how you will keep you, your family and your possessions safe. Avoid carrying cash, or if you must, divide cash among family members. This will avoid the potential for a major loss in case of theft. ATM cards, credit cards, or traveler's checks are safe bets and are replaceable.
Do not ask strangers for directions. Keep vehicle doors locked and secured. If your vehicle breaks down, lift the hood and secure a white cloth to the antenna. Your family members should remain together in the locked car until police arrive.
If you do get lost, try not to show it. Ask for help at a public place. This lessens the chance for a problem.
Final Destination
Most importantly, do not look like a tourist. Thieves notice this type of behavior, which may put your family at risk.
Devise a plan in case you get separated from your family. A public meeting place is the best bet. Also, have a plan in mind in case of a family emergency.
If you stay overnight in a hotel, ask the clerk about areas that should be avoided. Check out locations of fire escapes and elevators in the hotel. These routes should be marked and posted in your hotel room.
By planning ahead of time for potential problems, your family vacation can remain a vacation instead of a stressful event.
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