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(c) Elliott Publishing.

Safe Summer
Err Travel · August 15, 2000

Over the past few years, crime in the U.S. has been reported to be on the wane, but it is still the highest of any industrialized nation. And as I wrote in this column last year at this time, Memorial Day marks the traditional kick-off for yet another season of crime.

Beginning now, and continuing through the vacation season, an American's chances of becoming a crime victim are higher than at other times of the year.

The good news is that most travelers will return from their vacations with no stories of crime to tell. Many travelers, however, will become the targets of petty criminals. Some will even find themselves victims of serious crimes.

There is also another "travel" hazard. This one, however, awaits discovery by the traveler when he returns from his trip: home burglary.

Because an unoccupied home can be an invitation for burglars, I though it would be instructive to review some of the advice I doled out to revelers who were away from home a few months ago to celebrate the arrival of the new millennium. This is not new information, but as you prepare for your summer vacation, it bears repeating.

Here are a few precautions you may want to take before leaving home this summer:

  • Lock all doors and windows (duh), and if you have an alarm system, turn it on.

  • Unplug electrical appliances that aren't necessary.

  • Unplug your garage door opener so that it won't open accidentally.

  • Use a couple of variable timers to light the interior of your home and to turn on a radio.

  • Have calls forwarded to a friend who will be around while you are away.

  • Arrange for your mail and newspaper to be held or picked up regularly.

  • Ask a neighbor to put out your trashcans on pick-up day.

  • Arrange for lawn care.

  • If you plan to drive or park your car at the airport, hide or remove from your vehicle registration information and any other documents that include your address.

  • Alert the police and/or your neighbors of your travel plans so they can keep an eye on your house.
Have a great summer vacation.


Dr. Terry Riley is a psychologist and travel security authority. His column appears on Wednesdays. He is author of the popular book Travel Can Be Murder. Visit his site at http://www.appliedpsychology.com or e-mail him at terry@ticked.com.