It’s always fun to arrive at a destination and get settled in your home away from home. But before you start putting your clothes in the drawers and settling in, make sure your room is in order.

  • Make sure the locks on the doors work and pieces of the security latch are secure. Anytime you are in your room, keep the deadbolt activated.
  • Always check the closets and bathrooms upon entering your room to make sure no one is hiding.
  • If your room is a connecting room, make sure the door is locked from your side.
  • Locate the emergency exit. There is usually a map on the back of your door indicating where to exit in an emergency.
  • Always put your room key in the same place so you can find it. By the bed is a good option. You can always find it quickly if you know where to look.
  • Never open the door of your room to a stranger, even hotel personnel. The hotel should notify you if employees need to get in your room. If someone asks to come in, ask them to wait outside until you call the front desk and verify the need for them to enter.
  • Put a flashlight by your bed. Yes, flashlights are heavy in your suitcase, but the peace of mind of having one by your bed outweighs the inconvenience. If the hotel electricity goes out, you will be glad you have the light.
  • If you lose your key, immediately ask for another one. It is a simple replacement for most hotels because of the electronic key systems.
  • When you leave your room, leave the television or radio on.
  • Use your "Do Not Disturb" sign frequently. If you want maid service, let her know and ask her to leave the sign on the door. If you do not need service, just ask her for clean towels or other needed supplies.
  • Make use of your in-room safe if there is one. Many hotels provide safes in the closets. If they do not have one, they usually have a hotel safe you can use.
  • Do not keep all your cash, travelers checks, and credit cards in one place. When you leave the room, do not take it all with you.
  • Secure your laptop and other expensive items when you leave your room. You can also leave them at the hotel security desk in a safety deposit box.

A few simple steps can make sure your trip is not marred by trauma or tragedy.