SAFETY TIPS FOR THE BUSINESS TRAVELER

Preparation

� Arrange for someone to keep an eye on your place while you are away. Have them cut the grass, shovel the snow, and pick up circulars left on your door step. Have your mail and newspapers held until you get back.

� Make sure that you have all the important documents that you will need while on your trip. Copy or make a record of all credit cards, airline tickets, traveler�s checks, passports, and all documents in your wallet or purse that you are taking.

� Jewelry, luggage and all valuables should be photographed prior to your trip.

� Let trusted friends or relatives know when you are leaving, when you are returning, and what route you will be taking.

� If you are driving, have your car checked out by a mechanic before you leave so you can avoid car problems on the road.

� Carry a personal emergency card on your person. Information should provide an emergency number of someone to call, prescription information and any medical problems.

On the Road

� Don�t carry large amounts of cash; use traveler�s checks. Limit the amount of credit cards that you take to only those that you will use.

� If driving, stick to the main, well-traveled, well-lighted roads. Review your route when you stop for break or to gas up.

� Keep your purse and valuables out of sight even when you are driving.

� Always travel with your doors locked and windows up far enough so no one can reach inside.

� Do not provide rides to strangers.

� If your car does break down, turn on your flashers and tie a piece of cloth to an antenna or outside mirror. If someone stops to help, stay in your car and, through a slightly opened window, ask them to call the police.

In Your Hotel or Motel

� Make sure that all personal valuables go with you when you go to your room after checking in.

� Be observant of your surroundings. You are no longer on your �home turf� so look around and familiarize yourself with not only what is around you but also who.

� If you do not want to use the hotel safe, then when you leave your room, lock up your valuables that you leave behind in your suitcase. Make sure to take the key with you.

� Keep your door locked and use the chain or bar latch if there is one.

� Never sit in the room with the door propped open.

� If someone knocks on your door, use the peephole to see who it is. If they say they are part of the staff, call the front desk for verification.

� Carry a small flashlight and place it near the bed. Some hotels have dim lighting and it may become useful during a power outage.

� Check your belongings daily. Arrange your possessions so that you will know immediately if something is missing.

� Carry your purse close to your body, don�t let it dangle. Carry your wallet in a front trousers pocket.

Air Travel

� Familiarize yourself with TSA�s rules and regulations for travelers.

� Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas. Do not accept packages from strangers.

� Allow extra time for check in and the security screening process.

� Place a piece of paper listing your name, address and phone number inside each piece of luggage. Use covered luggage tags to avoid casual observation of your identity.

� Keep a separate record of the contents of your checked luggage. Keep anything of value in a carry-on that stays with you.

� Make copies of your valuable documents; leave a copy at home.

If You Become a Victim

� Notify the local police immediately.

� Notify your bank and credit card issuers.

� Put an alert on your accounts with one of the 3 credit bureaus � TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian.