Nimlok Tradepoints:
Safety First

As we enter a new year of trade shows, it may be worthwhile to review some safety and travel tips. One thing I love about my job is that I get to travel a lot! While I am a seasoned traveler and am frequently on my own, I don't think twice about using a fitness center, pool or hot tub, things I really appreciate while on the road. However, a recent incident has made me more aware of the need for safety precautions.

I was at a convention located in a conference hotel where most hotel guests were conference attendees. I went to the large 24-hour outdoor pool around 11:00 p.m. and a few guests were sitting around it. I put my towel and robe on a chair with my hotel key stuffed inside. As I was swimming, two men put their stuff right on the chair right beside mine. I thought that rather unusual as there were about 200 other chairs they could have selected. Why so close to my stuff? So I kept an eye on them. Sure enough, they went to my chair and started going through my things. When I yelled out to them, they stopped and as I approached, they claimed to have made a mistake ("I'm drunk, I thought this was my stuff"). As I approached further, I thought "What can I do? I'm in my bathing suit. I don't see any security or emergency phone. How aggressive should I be? Should I yell for help from the other guests?" I knew they didn't get any valuables, so I let them go and immediately reported them to hotel security. The next day I located the emergency phone and it is now my policy when I'm in an unstaffed fitness room or swim area to locate the emergency phone.

Here are some other travel safety tips that I share with my staff and hope you will find it useful too:

• Thieves typically have a plan; victims don't. Thieves are looking for easy access and getaway. They don't like dogs, crying babies, or anything that will draw attention to them.
• Identification on your luggage should be covered but accessible.
• Keep identification inside your luggage in case the outside tag comes off.
• Watch what you say and do while traveling. Don't tell strangers where you are going or staying.
• Watch what you wear. Don't look the part of a wealthy person. A thief won't take the time to determine if your Rolex or jewelry is real or not.
• Leave all valuables at home.
• Men are most susceptible to muggings because they typically carry a lot of cash. Carry a lot of $1 bills rolled up with a $20 bill. Many muggers are youths and may need money as part of a gang initiation. They are not expecting you to speak. Ask "What do you want?" They typically will tell you "Give me your cash. Give me your jewelry." Tell them what you are doing "I'm going to reach into my pocket and get my wallet." They may just take what you offer and leave.
• Never carry more cash than you need. Use credit cards as much as possible. Banks don't offer the same protection on a debit card if it's stolen or used to draw large sums of cash.
• Being kind to strangers looks good on paper, but in real life, thieves can use cunning diversionary tactics, like bumping you or dropping something, to distract you while an accomplice relieves you of your possessions.
• Walk well away from the curb and against traffic. Some thieves will snatch bags while riding a scooter/motorbike.
• Keep wallets and money belts inside clothing, not on the outside. Keep your wallet in the tightest pocket, buttoned if possible.
• If possible, leave your purse in your room's safe. It's very easy to cut the strap and grab. If you must carry a purse, carry it under your arm and in front of you, not behind.
• Take time before leaving your room to put things away and into safe (if available) or lock equipment in your travel suitcase when not in the room. Small items can be easily put in with towels or into a duffel bag, etc. Most staff would not take the larger case – too obvious.
• Leave a light on in your hotel room and TV on low (gives the appearance someone is inside room).
• Leave a "do not disturb sign" on door at all times except for cleaning. You can also call housekeeping to let them know to come clean the room and that you have a sign on the door, but that they should enter only with your permission.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Where is the fire exit?
• Do not open door if alone. Only open door to people you know or for services you have requested, e.g., room service.
• Never resist a mugger; your safety is priceless.
• How many times have you been stopped by a stranger who asked you for the time or to get directions? This is a technique thieves use to bring you closer to them. Many women smile and move towards the individual in an effort to be helpful or "nice." If you move towards them, they will start to approach and will ask other questions. It is suggested you (particularly women) not move closer and to move away if the person asking the question is moving towards you.
• If you feel you are being followed, turn around and look directly at the person. Make sure they know you have seen them. This usually discourages them.
• If someone is following too close for comfort, slow down or stop and let them pass or move to a place where people are congregated.
• Being a good judge of body language and an astute observer of your immediate environment will be a definite asset when traveling.

While safety should always be on our minds, I don't let fear hinder me from enjoying my travels and exploring the world around me. Safe Journeys!

Anne Barron, CME, CTG is President of ABComm Ltd., an exhibit and event management firm. You can reach her by phone at (877) 403-7056.

Web site: www.ab-comm.com

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