Ask an Officer

Question: What are some crime prevention tips for traveling this summer? 

Answer: Kate McLaughlin, Community Policing Specialist 

There are many things you can do to prepare for a safe vacation, as well as securing you home while you are gone.  Before you leave home, give your travel itinerary and emergency number to a relative or trusted friend. Make a record of your credit card numbers or travelers check numbers and keep them in a safe place. Put identification on the inside and outside of your luggage.  To prepare your home, install good locks on doors and windows and be sure to use them, arrange to have your lawn mowed and flowers watered, use timers for interior lights and radio, stop delivery of mail and newspaper or have a friend or neighbor pick them up daily. If you are driving on vacation have your vehicle serviced by a reputable mechanic.  You can also complete the vacation house watch form found on the Euclid Police Department website, and when time permits, an officer will drive by your house during your time away. 

While you are traveling on the road follow these crime prevention tips: never carry large amount of cash, always be aware of your surroundings, check the interior or your vehicle before entering, do not stop to assist stranded motorists -use your cell phone, do not let the gas tank get below one fourth full, use well-traveled roads, avoid unknown short cuts, keep your vehicle doors and windows locked.  While in the hotel remember to arrange your belonging so you can tell if something is missing, lock your suitcases, take valuables with you or use the hotel safe, do not open the door to strangers, take your room key with you, be aware of your surroundings, do not give out your room number, contact management for anything suspicious you see. 

Some additional tips while sightseeing include: inquire with hotel management about risky areas to avoid, be wary of strangers asking you questions about your plans, do not show how much cash you are carrying, stay in public areas, ask questions or get directions from business staff rather than pedestrians on the street, keep travel brochures and maps out of sight when possible so not to indicate you are a tourist.

Euclid Police wish you a safe and enjoyable vacation! 

If you would like to submit a question to Ask an Officer, contact Community Policing at the Euclid Police Department:  email kmclaughlin@cityofeuclid.com or call 216-289-8449.