Personal safety does not take a vacation

This time of year, many of us leave the Lowcountry and travel elsewhere. Travel, especially international travel, presents risks, and we must remain vigilant while also enjoying the experience. The risk to American travelers is real and was highlighted by the recent shooting at the pyramids in Teotihuacan, Mexico.

Here are some things to consider before leaving, while traveling and upon your return.

Prior to departure, make sure a trusted neighbor or family member knows you are going out of town and ask them to pick up packages and mail. Consider contacting the sheriff’s department to request a property check. Create a look of normalcy by using interior lights on timers, exterior lighting, vehicles in the driveway and maintaining landscaping.

Make sure your passport has at least six months remaining before expiration. If you need a visa for your destination, obtain one in advance.

Keep a photo of your passport on your phone and send a copy to someone else in your traveling party in case it is lost. Enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Also, check for any travel advisories for your destination. If a location is listed as “Level

4: Do Not Travel,” reconsider your trip. Make sure your cellphone plan works in your destination country or consider purchasing a local phone upon arrival.

When selecting a hotel, consider accommodations with modern security features. While not always the case, many international hotel brands maintain higher security standards. A search of a specific property can often provide information on onsite security and any prior incidents. Request a room between the second and sixth floors. In the event of a fire or other emergency, ladder trucks may not reach higher levels.
Identify safe locations in the country where you can seek assistance.

Save contact information for the U.S. Embassy or consulate in your phone. You may also consider other embassies, such as those of Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand or Australia, which may assist American travelers in certain situations.

Pack necessary medications and consider bringing activated charcoal tablets, which may help with certain food- or water-related illnesses if taken early.

Upon arrival, use a trusted transportation service from the airport to your hotel and maintain situational awareness. Project a confident demeanor, as criminals often target individuals who appear distracted or unaware. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying other signs of wealth. Keep your purse or wallet close to your body.

Try to avoid very large gatherings, such as concerts, crowded shopping areas or busy restaurants and bars, when possible. If visiting major tourist sites, have a plan in case of an emergency. Be aware of your surroundings and identify places where you could seek shelter, such as stores, restrooms or hotels.

When you return from your trip, you can post photos to social media and disconnect any international phone plans. Avoid posting while you are still traveling, as some individuals have been targeted for burglary after sharing their absence publicly.

Have fun, but stay vigilant.

James Hamilton is a nationally recognized security expert with more than 33 years of protection experience. He is a former FBI Special Agent and led the FBI Overseas Survival Awareness Training Program. He is the founder of the Hamilton Security Group and can be contacted at: www.hamiltonsecuritygroup.com.