Holiday Security Tips
-
Plan your itinerary in advance and give a copy to a friend or neighbor who is staying home.
-
The itinerary should include your accommodation information, travel schedule, and the contact information for each person in your family.
-
If something should happen, your friend or neighbor will know how to reach you.
-
Create the impression your house is occupied by using a time switch for a light to go on at night.
-
Test your alarm system, electric fencing, locks, etc. leaving enough time to repair any issues before you go.
-
Cancel newspapers and other regular deliveries.
-
Arrange to have your letter/mail box cleared regularly
-
If need be arrange to have your lawn mowed if need be
-
Never tell strangers where you’re staying, how long you’re staying there, or what you’re doing on vacation. While someone may ask well-meaning questions, not everyone has your best interests at heart.
-
Never let family members wander off alone.
-
Use the buddy system when you’re not engaged in family activities.
-
Plan when and where you’ll meet up even if each person has a cell phone.
-
Discuss personal safety with each family member. Make sure that young children are always under close and trusted adult supervision.
-
Ensure that they know the name, address and contact number of their parents and who they should approach if they get lost.
-
It is critical that children are taught what to do if a stranger approaches them or tries to lure them away from a safe area.
-
Know where you are going, ensure you know the safest way to get there and ensure your GPS devices are set to avoid dangerous or high-risk areas.
-
No matter where you are or who you deal with, you should always have the presence of mind to identify potentially hostile situations. Always be aware of your surroundings and environment
-
Remain alert
-
Having a basic mental plan in the event of an emergency situation
-
Be aware of your environment
-
Looking out for odd or threatening behavior
-
Knowing the location of security personnel
-
Identifying nearest exits
-
Locating stairwells
-
Taking note of unattended packages or bags