Hotel / Motel Safety

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.