When you think of Florida you think of happy times, magical memories, great thrill rides and what to do next. You hardly ever think of the usual precautions you may take when travelling in Europe for instance.
However, unfortunately in Florida as in the rest of the world there are people who have no problems taking things that do not belong to them.
Although crime is not a major problem, I have put together a few simple ideas which if used will hopefully make the place you stay more a secure and save on a lot of heartache.
Also whist we are on the subject of safety, with all the excitement and thrills of Florida, make sure you don’t end up losing your child by using some of the methods mentioned under Child Safety.
Accommodation Safety
No matter where you stay these few simple rules may safe you from unwanted visitors.
Be a nosey neighbour, if you notice someone is looking suspicious or loitering make a big show of going and having a good look (making sure you get noticed) and if necessary ask if can help or what are they doing.
Always leave on a lamp or two when you go out, this way if you are not back till dark it will give the impression someone is home.
Try and make sure all curtains and blinds are shut, so no one can eye up what is on display.
Make sure you lock all windows and doors and if applicable set the alarm system.
Never leave valuables on display.
Whenever possible use the safety deposit box and if possible change the code for the duration of your stay (don’t forget to change it back when you leave).
Car Safety
Only pull over in a well lit and busy area (such as petrol station).
Do not leave valuables, purses, documentation, etc on display.
Child Safety
Make sure children know never go anywhere without first getting permission from an adult.
Take a picture of your child with your digital camera or camera cell each morning before go out – that way you know exactly what the child was wearing that day if you need to give a description.
Get a luggage ID tag or similar and add the child’s name, address and your cell phone number, attach this to either their shoelace, necklace, etc.
Make sure the children have an easy, well seen, easy to find place to meet in case you get split up (for example if in the Magic Kingdom – make sure they meet you at the Castle).
Inform children who to speak to if they get lost (i. e. in Disney make sure they inform a cast member), this will safe them speaking to strangers.
However, unfortunately in Florida as in the rest of the world there are people who have no problems taking things that do not belong to them.
Although crime is not a major problem, I have put together a few simple ideas which if used will hopefully make the place you stay more a secure and save on a lot of heartache.
Also whist we are on the subject of safety, with all the excitement and thrills of Florida, make sure you don’t end up losing your child by using some of the methods mentioned under Child Safety.
Accommodation Safety
No matter where you stay these few simple rules may safe you from unwanted visitors.
Be a nosey neighbour, if you notice someone is looking suspicious or loitering make a big show of going and having a good look (making sure you get noticed) and if necessary ask if can help or what are they doing.
Always leave on a lamp or two when you go out, this way if you are not back till dark it will give the impression someone is home.
Try and make sure all curtains and blinds are shut, so no one can eye up what is on display.
Make sure you lock all windows and doors and if applicable set the alarm system.
Never leave valuables on display.
Whenever possible use the safety deposit box and if possible change the code for the duration of your stay (don’t forget to change it back when you leave).
Car Safety
Only pull over in a well lit and busy area (such as petrol station).
Do not leave valuables, purses, documentation, etc on display.
Child Safety
Make sure children know never go anywhere without first getting permission from an adult.
Take a picture of your child with your digital camera or camera cell each morning before go out – that way you know exactly what the child was wearing that day if you need to give a description.
Get a luggage ID tag or similar and add the child’s name, address and your cell phone number, attach this to either their shoelace, necklace, etc.
Make sure the children have an easy, well seen, easy to find place to meet in case you get split up (for example if in the Magic Kingdom – make sure they meet you at the Castle).
Inform children who to speak to if they get lost (i. e. in Disney make sure they inform a cast member), this will safe them speaking to strangers.