We’re all pretty lucky to be living in Orlando, one of the top tourist destinations in the world. It’s the most-visited city in the USA. Do you ever feel like you want to get out, though? Particularly in the summer or winter holiday seasons when it feels like the rest of the world is here?
We understand if you do! One of our biggest areas of service is in the many Orlando and Kissimmee resorts and hotels, so we experience the increased traffic up close and personal. We enjoy the increased activity, but as Orlando security guards at the resorts during vacation months, we know we have to be at our best.
Some Words of Vacation Safety — Before You Leave
Before you take off on your own vacation this upcoming spring and summer, take a few safety tips with you.
- Don’t post vacation details on social media. Don’t advertise when you’re leaving or how long you’ll be gone. Remember: no matter how private you try to keep your profile, please assume that it will be seen by people that you do not anticipate.
- Stop mail and newspaper deliveries. There’s nothing more easily spotted by burglars than a pile of unread newspapers in the driveway. Overstuffed mailboxes are a dead giveaway, as well. Get a Hold Mail form from your local post office or postal delivery worker.
- Make nice with your neighbor. They’ll be your biggest asset when you’re not home. Ask them to keep an eye on your property. Have the neighbor park at your house.
- Put timers on lights. If your lights are on all day, it’s a giveaway that no one’s home to turn them off.
- Check alarm clocks and landline phones. Make sure clocks won’t go off and that the phone’s ringer is on low.
- Have your lawn mowed.
These are particularly important if you’ll be out of your house for weeks, but don’t assume that you have to be away for an extended period for crime to happen. Crime is opportunistic.
Once You’re on Your Vacation
Remember, criminals would rather take an easy target than one they have to work for. Don’t give them the chance.
- Use traveler’s checks instead of cash.
- Never leave personal items, purses, and keys unattended.
- Lock up your valuables in your hotel room safe.
- For added safety, give your room key to the front desk when you leave the hotel.
- Lock your room, even if you’re just grabbing some ice.
- If you’re at the pool, don’t leave your room key laying out.
If you’re driving:
- Stick to the main roads. Keep a map with you in case GPS doesn’t work.
- Never pick up hitchhikers. Ever.
- Park in well-lit areas, lock all doors, and roll up windows.
- Lock valuables in the trunk when you leave.
If something happens to you, please don’t wait to report it. Crimes need to be handled in the jurisdiction where they occur.
One Last Word from Apex
Before booking hotels, you may want to see if they have security guards. The point of vacation is to have fun, not worry all day long! Take some precautions so that you can focus on having a great vacation.