Security on the Road - For Traveling Seniors

If driving, plan your route carefully, travel on main roads, and use maps. Map two routes for each auto trip. One should be the quickest route, the other the most scenic. Rand McNally and AAA are good sources. Avoid traveling during night hours.

Have your car serviced and tires checked before leaving. Keep car doors locked at all times. Wear seat belts. Don't drive too long. 

Never pick up hitchhikers. Do not stop to offer help to a stranded motorist. Go to a telephone booth and call for assistance.

Don't get out of the car if there are suspicious individuals nearby. Drive away. If you suspect someone is following you, drive to the nearest service station, restaurant, or business and call the police or sheriff's department. If you believe it is unsafe to get out of your car, honk your horn and flash your lights to draw attention.

CAR SECURITY

Never leave your car unlocked. Always lock valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Always carry wallets, checkbooks, and purses with you. Do not advertise that you are a tourist. Place maps and travel brochures in the glove compartment.

If you stop overnight, remove bags and other valuables from the car and take them inside. Don't park your car on the street overnight if the hotel has a garage or secure area. If you must park on the street, select a well-lit area. Check the back seat before getting in. Mark your car radio and other removable car equipment with your driver's license number.

Don't Advertise
Your Travel Plans to Strangers!

In case of a BREAKDOWN
If your car breaks down, get the vehicle as far off the road as possible. Raise the hood and attach a white cloth to the car antenna as an emergency signal. Get passengers out of the vehicle and away from traffic. Set up flares or warning triangles at least 250 feet behind the vehicle. Stand on the shoulder at least 100 feet behind the vehicle to signal for help. Ask anyone who stops to call the police or a garage.

Don't attempt to fix a flat in busy traffic--wait for roadside assistance. If you must remain inside the vehicle while waiting for help, keep your seat belt fastened. If you must abandon your car, keep all passengers together.

TRAVELING IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES

Find out about the international driver's license beforehand. Some countries will not allow people over 70 to rent cars. There may be other restrictions. Memorize the international road signs. Check out the auto insurance requirements before you enter each country. Learn the words for police officer and doctor. Know the location of the nearest U.S. consulate. If you rent a vehicle, don't insist on an American model if there are not many in use. Make sure a rental car is in good repair.

HOTEL AND MOTEL SECURITY

When you first check in, get a map of the city with your hotel or motel location clearly marked. Get a map of the bus and subway lines. Ask an English-speaking hotel employee to explain the local public transportation system. Find out the proper charges for taxis, and if there is a surcharge for night or holiday trips.

If possible, book a room between the second and the seventh floor--above ground level to prevent easy entrance from outside and low enough for fire equipment to reach. Keep your hotel/motel door locked at all times. Use all auxiliary locking devices on doors and windows. Use the door viewer to identify anyone requesting entry. Open the door only if you are certain the person has a legitimate reason to enter your room. If in doubt, call the office. Be observant. Report any suspicious movements in the corridors or rooms to the management.

Determine the most direct route to and from your room to the fire escapes, elevators, and nearest telephone. Know how to use the room phone or where a pay phone is located. Make a note of emergency numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, the nearest U.S Embassy or consulate. Know how to use the pay phone and have the proper change on hand.

Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can signal your need for help, the police, or a doctor.

Unpack and place belongings in the closet and dresser. Arrange your things so you will know if anything is missing. Inventory your belongings daily. Consider locking any electrical appliances in your luggage. Suitcases should always be locked so they cannot be used to carry your property out of your room.

Never leave money, checks, credit cards, or car keys in the room. Always take them with you. Use the hotel/motel safe to store extra cash, expensive jewelry, or other valuables. Report any lost or stolen items to the management and the police.

BE PREPARED ON THE ROAD -- Carry these safety items:

• flashlight and fresh batteries
  
• fire extinguisher
  
• gloves
  
• spare tire, jack, and lug nut wrench
  
• tool kit
  
• first aid kit
  
• jumper cables
  
• flares/warning triangles
  
• blanket