Traveling Tips

TIPS FOR TRAVELERS

• BEFORE YOU GO
  • Ensure that your passport, if needed, is good for at least three or four months.
  • Make a copy of your credit card and traveler's check numbers and the telephone numbers needed to report a theft. Keep the copy in a location separate from the documents.
  • If possible, carry required prescriptions in the original containers.
  • Check with your medical insurance carrier about coverage away from your home and work. Know coverage protection for out-of-country travel.
• BEFORE YOU TAKE OFF
  • Make copies of your passport photo page; put a copy in your carry-on baggage and leave a copy at home.
  • Make sure your luggage is tagged inside and out, but don't place your position or affiliation on the tag.
  • Dress casually when traveling to avoid attention; avoid showy jewelry.
  • Be alert at security checkpoints. Don't place belongings on conveyor until you can keep an eye on items being screened.
• AT YOUR HOTEL
  • Try to secure a room between floors two and seven. Rooms on the bottom floor may be more susceptible to an unlawful entry. Also, some fire departments may not have the capability for rescue above the seventh floor.
  • Always check for the nearest fire stairwell, hoses and emergency telephone when checking into a hotel.
  • Avoid hanging the "Please Clean Room" tag on your door. It is an obvious sign that that you are not in.
  • Do not leave sensitive information or documents in your hotel room. Hand carry and personally protect your documents, as well as laptop computers and other valuables.
  • Stay with your luggage until it is brought into the lobby or placed in your taxi, bus or car.
• AT YOUR HOTEL: IN CASE OF FIRE
  • Check your door by placing the palm of your hand on the door or the knob. If either feels hot, do not open the door.
  • Locate the nearest stairwell to your room.
  • If you cannot leave your room or the stairwells are unsafe, notify the front desk that you are in the room.
  • Stay low but alert to any signs of rescue from the street or the halls. Let firefighters know where you are by waving a towel or sheet out the window.
• ON THE STREET
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Look up and down the street before exiting a building.
  • Ask the bellman, concierge, or front desk personnell regarding safe and not-so-safe areas around the city to jog, dine, or sightsee. Be aware of local traffic regulations and driving habits. Joggers have been seriously injured by failing to understand traffic conditions.
  • Keep in mind that purse snatchers and briefcase thieves often work hotel bars and restaurants. Keep your purse or briefcase in view or in hand.
  • Be alert to scams involving an unknown person spilling a drink or food on your clothing; an accomplice may be preparing to steal your purse, wallet, or briefcase.
• WHEREVER YOU ARE
  • Always be alert for distractions that may be staged by pickpockets, luggage thieves, or purse snatchers.
  • Consider wearing a money belt or other secure storage device; waist pouches are not advised because potential thieves will know the location of your valuables.
  • Keep briefcases and purses in view or in hand when using telephones. If you're using a credit card, block the view.
  • Be cautious when entering public restrooms.