Many household/residential crimes occur  when people are on vacations or are involved in outdoor activities. Travelers can also be easy targets.  Carrying luggage, a laptop or even a briefcase can make a person an easy target.  Being unfamiliar with your surroundings and the preoccupation of work or returning home causes distractions. 

BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME

• Stop mail and newspaper deliveries or ask a neighbor to pick them up daily.
• Put lights on an automatic timer, if you listen to the radio put it on an automatic timer also.
• Have mowing schedules or snow removal schedules set up for the time you are gone
• Leave a key with a trusted neighbor and tell them your departure and return dates.
• Leave an emergency contact phone number with your neighbor so you can be reached.
• Lock all windows and doors.  Be sure to double check your garage doors and your basement before you leave.
• Have your car serviced and tires checked before your departure.
• Prepare an emergency road kit in case your vehicle breaks down and take a first aid kit. 
• Take a cell phone along.

WHILE YOU ARE OUT

• Carry a minimum amount of cash.  When using travelers checks keep a record of the numbers and how many you have.
• Guard against people looking inside your wallet.
• Keep airplane tickets in an inside pocket, they are as good as cash.  Don't let them protrude from a bag or an outside pocket. 
• If you are driving in a car make sure you plan your route. Travel on main roads and use maps. 
• Never pick up hitchhikers
• When leaving your car make sure it is locked and valuables are kept in the trunk.   Don't leave a purse, wallet or checkbook in the car, always take them with you. 
• If possible disengage the remote trunk opener.
• When walking, if you become lost, go into a business or find a Police Officer and ask for directions.
• Try and travel during the day instead of the evening hours.

 HOTELS

• When staying in a hotel take all of your luggage out of the car and into the room. 
• Keep your doors locked when inside the room and when you are away.
• Always take cash, credit cards and your keys with you.
• Inventory your belongings daily
• Plan an emergency route out of your room and find the location of the fire extinguishers.
• Be aware of any suspicious activities in the corridors or rooms. 

TAKING PUBLIC TRANSIT

• Try not to take subways or buses at non-peak hours.
• Make sure you know your route and take a taxi late at night.
• If you have friends in the area call and ask for a ride.

THE WORST THAT CAN HAPPEN

• Turn over your valuables if you are held up.
• Never argue or resist and give them what they want.
• If the offender asks for your wallet, throw it in their direction, but off center.  This could give you a chance to escape.
• Contact the Police.