Safety Tips: Travel

• Notify your security company that you’ll be away
• Share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member
• Double-check all doors and windows are securely locked
• Consider setting up timers for indoor and outdoor lights to make your home look occupied
• Shut off the main water valve to avoid leaks or pipe bursts
• Set your air conditioning to an energy-saving mode using a programmable thermostat to regulate temperature while away. This helps reduce energy costs without entirely shutting off climate control. Before leaving, check the thermostat’s battery and replace it if needed to ensure it continues functioning properly
• Consider upgrading to Wi-Fi-enabled smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors that can send real-time alerts to your phone in an emergency, even when you're away. This added layer of protection lets you respond quickly, no matter where you are
• If you already have smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors connected to a security system, double-check that they are set and activated before you leave. A quick test can give you peace of mind while you're away
• Ask a neighbor, friend or family member to collect mail and packages. You can also request that your local post office place a hold on mail deliveries for the duration of your trip
• If you live in an area prone to inclement weather like storms, take precautions to protect your home from potential storm damage while you’re away. Secure any loose garden or pool equipment and outdoor furniture that could become airborne and act as projectiles
• Clean gutters and storm drains to prevent flooding
• Prevent unattended access to your pool by using a pool cover and locking your pool gate

• Unplug small appliances and electronics to prevent electrical fires
• Shut off stoves and any non-essential electrical appliances
• Install surge protectors for necessary plug-in devices
• Turn off breakers for major appliances like the water heater and washer/dryer
• If you own a fireplace, dispose of ashes properly and store hazardous chemicals in a safe place

• Store important documents, financial information, and valuables in a fireproof and waterproof safe
• Take photos of your home and belongings in case you need to file an insurance claim
• Ensure your home insurance policy is up to date before your trip

• Research your destination before you travel. An online search will provide you with a list of local urgent care centers, safe and clearly marked travel routes and information about the local weather conditions
• Make sure everyone in your travel group knows the local emergency number for your destination, as not all countries use 911. Before your trip, look up and save this number in your phone and share it with your group. Being prepared with the right emergency contact information can make all the difference in a crisis
• If you are traveling with children, make sure they know your cell phone number and the number of another family member in case they can’t reach you
• Identify a safe meeting spot, like your hotel or a police station, in case someone in your travel group gets lost

• Adhere to any TSA regulations regarding liquids, batteries, and prohibited items. Never pack flammable items like lighters or lithium batteries in checked luggage unless allowed by airline guidelines
• Store carry-on luggage properly to prevent shifting during takeoff and landing. Keep essential items such as medication and identification within easy reach
• Make sure to follow airline safety instructions. Pay close attention to the flight attendants’ safety briefing, even if you have flown before. Review the safety information card in your seatback pocket to familiarize yourself with emergency exits, flotation devices and oxygen masks
• Stay seated with your seatbelt fastened whenever the seatbelt sign is on. Unexpected turbulence can occur anytime, and remaining buckled reduces the risk of injury

• Get a vehicle check-up before a road trip, including battery, brakes, tires and fluids
• Pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit and basic auto tools
• Ensure all passengers wear seatbelts and that child safety seats are properly installed
• Keep children under 12 in the back seat and use certified car seats for children under 40 pounds
• Plan your route in advance and stick to well-marked, well-maintained roads
• Avoid driving in a truck’s No Zone — if you can’t see the truck driver in their mirror, they can’t see you
• Take breaks every two hours to stay alert and refreshed
• Minimize distractions. Avoid horseplay or arguments in the car that could take your focus off the road

A little preparation goes a long way. By securing your home and planning ahead, you can fully enjoy your trip, knowing your property is protected and your journey is as safe as possible.