THE Philippine National Police reiterated the need for the general public to memorize the following public safety tips to keep them safe while away from home and traveling during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The PNP public safety tips follow:
WHEN LEAVING YOUR HOME FOR A VACATION
- Secure your home with durable locks on all doors and windows.
- Ask a trusted neighbor to watch the house while you’re away.
- Stop all deliveries.
- Turn the bell or ringer of your telephone down low.
- Leave your blinds, shades and curtains in a normal position.
- Close and lock garage doors and windows.
- Secure storage sheds, attic entrance and gate.
- Tell a trusted person your plan to be away so that he may have the opportunity to periodically check your home.
- Have a written record of all your important serial numbers, credit card numbers, etc. and keep them in a secure place.
- Turn on outside/perimeter lights.
WHEN BRINGING A VEHICLE
- Make sure your vehicle is in a suitable condition for the journey.
- Always lock your car, whether while parked or traveling. Keep valuables out of sight.
- At night, park in well-lit areas.
- Pack several warm blankets, ample drinking water, flares and flashlights with fresh batteries.
- Try to have specific directions and routes to your destination.
- If you get lost, call the local police for directions or assistance.
- Always keep your vehicle doors and windows locked.
- At stop lights and other traffic delays, leave enough space in front of your vehicle as an escape option in case of an emergency.
- Let someone know the route you intend to travel and your itinerary.
- Plan your trip carefully and consider all factors such as weather, fatigue, facilities for lodging, food and fuel.
WHILE ON THE ROAD
- Leave early and give yourself plenty of time to make the drive. Don’t over-speed.
- Know where you are going and how to get there and back.
- Check for construction detours for longer trips.
- Get a weather forecast.
- Make sure everyone wears their seatbelt at all times.
- Avoid taking over-the-counter medication that could make you drowsy while driving.
- Never drink and drive.
- When traveling in any new area, always be alert and trust your instincts.
- Use area maps and travel on main roads.
- Carry a minimal amount of cash. Use travelers’ checks and credit card whenever possible.
WHILE IN THE HOTEL
- Ask the hotel or motel staff about their security measures so you know what to expect.
- Always carry purses, wallets, hotel keys and car keys securely.
- Be observant and always report any suspicious activity to law enforcement or hotel security officers.
- Keep hotel room windows and doors locked.
- Do not invite strangers to your room.
- Keep extra cash and valuables locked in a safe place such as a hotel safe deposit box or a room safe.
- Upon checking into a hotel or motel, check local fire exists, elevators and the nearest phone.
- Make sure children know the name and address of your whereabouts.
- In an unlikely event when you are confronted by an assailant, do not resist demands for your valuables.
Stay safe everyone. Happy Holidays!
Source: People’s Tonight