Here are some of the tips supplied by our March speaker,
Chief Ed Edwardson. Keep them in mind when you travel:
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Leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
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Never travel with expensive objects that
make you a target for pickpockets. Store valuables, passport, and money in
hotel safe. Carry traveler's checks and one or two credit cards.
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Be aware of the people around you at all
time and follow your instincts.
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Stay in well populated, well-lit areas.
Don't take shortcuts down alleys, and don't walk alone at night. Take elevator
instead of stairs.
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Talk to locals about safety (i.e.
concierge). Ask them which areas to avoid or become dangerous after dark.
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Always wear purse across body rather than
dangling from shoulder (better yet, leave it at home).
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Be extra careful at night. Go with a group.
Have a plan to get back if you will be returning late. Avoid extremely
revealing clothing or carry a cover-up.
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The more vulnerable you look, the more
vulnerable you are.
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Avoid discussing your travel plans in
detail with people you meet along the way.
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Call home at predetermined intervals.
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Consider investing in a cellular phone so
you can call for help any time you need it.
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Park in well-lit, busy area. Keep valuables
hidden and doors locked. Have keys in hand when returning to car and look
around outside and inside before getting in.
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Avoid ground-floor hotel rooms. Keep hotel
information--especially your room number--private. If meeting someone you don't
know, make it in a public place.
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Use ATMs during day. Check area first,
shield code when entering, don't count or display money at ATM.
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