Tips for hotel safety and security

When on personal trips, think about more than just the fun you're planning to have. It's also important to remain safe and alert. Staying at a hotel can be a relaxing and pampering escape, but it doesn't mean you should completely let down your guard. The same goes for business trips. Here are some tips to help with your personal safety while you are staying at a hotel.

Hotel safety tips for theft

Hotels often have low liability for lost or stolen items, so you may consider insurance to protect your valuables. If you travel frequently, it could be a good idea to speak with your insurance agent to verify the coverage provided by your homeowners policy while you travel.

Here are some ways to help protect your belongings:

• Don't flaunt cash or expensive jewelry.
• Use the in-room safe, not your vehicle, to store valuables.
• Place the "do not disturb" sign on the door when you leave.
• Keep your credit and identification cards out of sight.
• Lock all doors to connecting rooms.

Don't forget to protect the valuables you leave at home while you're away.

Safety practices that may help prevent assault

• Ask the front-desk clerk to write your room number on the key sleeve rather than say it out loud.
• Keep your key card with you when you leave your room. If you lose it, ask for a new card and updated code.
• Use only the main entrance after dark.
• If you use your key card to access a locked entrance, make sure no one is lurking behind to follow you in.
• Keep the deadbolt and door guard secured when in the room.
• Always look through the peephole before opening the door.
• Do not open the door for someone you don’t know. If you must open the door, consider opening it with the chain or door guard on.
• Bring a bright flashlight to help you see at night. It can also be used to temporarily blind a would-be intruder.
• Doorstops can be placed against the door for an additional line of security. Consider bringing two — one for the main door and the other for the adjoining door, if there is one.

Hotel fire safety

Review the fire safety instructions posted on the back of your hotel room door and familiarize yourself with all emergency exits. If you smell smoke, notify management immediately and leave as quickly and safely as possible, taking the stairs rather than the elevator. If the fire alarm sounds and you cannot leave your room due to fire or smoke proximity, call 911 so you can make them aware of your location.