Travel Safety

Here is some information the US Government supplies regarding safety in foreign nations where the risk of terrorism is high. Hope its useful.

At airport terminal
-use concealed bag tags
-spend as little time as possible in airports
-Pass through security checks quickly.
-Do not remain in vicinity of checkpoints.
Once through these areas go to a lounge or other open area away from baggage lockers and find a seat with a good view of the area. If possible sit with your back to a wall.
-Remain alert, be a people watcher.

At Hotels
-Do not give room numbers to strangers
-Choose an inside room, change rooms, change hotels.
-Sleep away from street side. (Windows)
-Leave lights on when room is vacant.
-Pull curtains, jam doors.
-Arrange knock signals. No knock No open.
-Answer phone "Hello" not with name.
-Turn lights out before opening door. Look before you exit.
-Vary use of stairs and elevators. Exit on different floors.
-If confronted have a plan of action ready.
-Never use the same route through lobby.
-Occasionally use rear entrance.
-Keep room key in your possession at all times.
-A vast majority of assassinations occur departing hotels, offices, domiciles and on the way to work. Try to detect surveillance.

By Auto
-Have clear view of approaches to your car
-Alternate parking places, alternate cars.
-Lock car when unattended
-look for tampering, check undercarriage, be alert when opening door, look under seats.
-Keep tank at least 1/2 full.
-Alter routes. Avoid choke points.
-Plan escape rout as you drive. Watch mopeds, motorcycles. Use high speed routes when possible.
-Know locations of safe havens at home, office and en route.
-Do not pick up hitchhikers.
-Drive with windows up and doors locked.

At All Times
-Vary eating places.
-Alternate shopping locations.
-Do not establish any sort of pattern.
-Avoid crowded areas. (Hotel lobby, airports, bars, theaters, restaurants, marketplaces, etc.) -Refuse first taxi offered.
-Be especially alert exiting bars, restaurants, etc.
-Know how to use local phone system. Carry phone change.
-Know emergency phone numbers for police, ambulance and hospital.
-Know the location of nearest US embassy and other safe locations where you can find refuge/assistance.
-Always look before you close doors.
Obvious awareness and care are the best deterrents.

By Tom Gerace from Ninpo-l

Edited and formated by Douglas E Knapp Copyright 1999