Include safety measures when planning vacations

Published 7:00 am Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Now that the children are out of school, many families are planning their summer vacations.
Whether you’re planning to visit relatives or the closest theme park, here are some recommended safety tips to keep in mind before loading up the car.
The website sheknows.com recommends the following tips for safeguarding your home.
–– Contact the post office to have your mail and newspaper delivery stopped. An overflowing mailbox will alert potential intruders to the fact no one is home.
–– Tell only a select group of people about your travel plans.
–– Set up an electrical timer to turn lights and televisions on an off at different times during the day to fool potential intruders.
–– If you will be gone for an extended period of time, consider turning off utilities to avoid potential flooding, fire or gas leaks.
After ensuring the safety of your home, remember to keep travel safety tips in mind.
The website suggests leaving jewelry and other expensive belongings locked up at home and keeping money in a money belt rather than a purse.
Bring an updated photo of each child, in the event of an emergency where you become separated from them, the website states.
It is also recommended to keep an emergency road kit in the trunk complete with jumper cables and flares. Also, bring a first aid kit, bottled water and nonperishable foods, the website states.
If you’re headed to the beach, the website recommends bringing plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses and UV-resistant clothing. Teach your children water safety and always be in the water with them.
There are many adventures to be experienced during the summer months, but safety should be part of the planning procedure.
It’s important to keep in mind to travel safely, plan ahead and enjoy the memories that will last a lifetime.

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