Newsletter Archive
September 2006
Travel Safety
With the holiday season approaching, travel can become chaotic and the occurrence
of criminal incidents more frequent. Whether on a business or personal trip, travelers
can take precautions to identify, and therefore avoid, potentially dangerous situations.
U.S. Security Care suggests taking the following steps to protect yourself and
your belongings while residing in a hotel:
- Request a hotel room between the 3rd and 7th floor, which is high enough to prevent a break-in, yet low enough to facilitate
evacuation during a fire or other emergency.
- When away from your room, leave the TV or radio on, giving the appearance that
the room is occupied.
- Never leave keys or personal belongings unattended and secure valuables using
the hotel safe.
- Always use the main hotel entrance, especially after dark.
- If you receive an unexpected delivery, verify with the hotel desk before opening
the door.
- Stay at reputable hotels as they tend to have better overall security.
- Identify fire escape routes and read the fire safety instructions provided in
your hotel room.
- Ensure that windows, sliding glass doors and connector doors are secure.
- Don’t open your hotel door without first verifying the identity of the person
requesting access.
Business trips often involve additional risks, as travelers must protect themselves
and the reputation of their company. By adhering to the following suggestions,
business travelers can ensure their company’s proprietary information and their
personal property is secure.
- Do try to book a non-stop flight on a U.S. carrier to minimize your exposure due
to multiple takeoffs and landings.
- Do maintain control of your briefcase and carry-on luggage at all times.
- Do take steps to avoid having your communications overheard or intercepted. Avoid
the use of cell phones in crowded public areas, especially when discussing sensitive
topics.
- Do contact the local U.S. embassy if you feel that you are being followed or are
under surveillance.
- Do not use laminated business cards as identification tags on your luggage.
- Do not publicize your travel plans.
- Do not pack sensitive or proprietary information in your checked luggage.
- Do not wear valuable jewelry while traveling. Avoid anything that draws attention to
you and conveys affluence.
- Do not develop a routine for traveling between your hotel and places of business. Vary
your routes and departure and arrival times as much as possible.
- Do not accept or deliver packages or letters from anyone unknown to you.
- Do not travel in taxis that are unmarked or do not have an official license prominently
displayed.
While efforts have been made to increase the safety of travelers, it is important
to take a proactive approach to protecting yourself. Being aware of your surroundings
and knowing how to avoid dangerous situations can reduce the stress of traveling,
while ensuring the safety of your company, your possessions and yourself.
For more information, please call 877-858-8772 or visit our website at www.usscinc.com.
|
