Now that the summer vacation season is here, we must remember that crime prevention doesn't stop when we leave home. To help ensure that a vacation will be an enjoyable experience for everyone, here are some crime prevention tips that will help protect your family and property when staying at a hotel or motel.

Arriving at a Hotel

• Park your vehicle in a well-lit area close to the lobby where you can see your vehicle and occupants.
• Before getting out of your vehicle, check your surroundings for suspicious looking people.
• When leaving your vehicle, put valuables out of sight and be sure to lock it.
• Memorize your vehicle license information so you don't have to go back outside.

Checking In

• Make reservations ahead of time to prevent being stranded with no vacancies or unsafe accommodations.
• Women traveling alone may prefer to sign in using only a first initial and last name.
• Register using your business address.

When Arriving at Your Room

• Store valuables in a hotel safe and get a receipt instead of leaving them in your vehicle.
• Don't enter your room if someone is loitering in the area and watching you. Report this to the front desk immediately.
• Be sure the locks on your door are working properly.
• Familiarize yourself with the closest fire evacuation route.
• Make sure you know how to use the phone in your room and that you can dial out to 911.
• Memorize the name and address of the hotel and your room number.
• Use the "peep hole" to identify visitors. Do not open the door to strangers.

Going Out

• Hang the "do not disturb" sign on the doorknob and leave a light and radio or TV on when leaving.
• Do not enter an elevator if someone inside seems suspicious.
• Inquire at the front desk about safe places to eat, shop, walk, or jog. Ask for a map of the area.

Following these tips will help make your vacation a safe and enjoyable experience.