Vacation Plans

I rI Received this from OCSO, Wanted to pass it along...... Dave

*** Holiday Travel Safety***

The Orange County Sheriff's Office wants you to enjoy your vacation destination before, during and after your trip.  Please take the time to follow some of the simple precautions and recommendations to make your travel and destination choice not only safe but fun for you and your family.

Ø  Always report any suspicious activity.  You may do so by calling 407-836-HELP (4357) for non emergency or 9-1-1 for any emergency.  Both are operational 24/7.

Ø  Always lock your vehicle and take all valuables with you. These items may include GPS, cell phone, loose change, and compact disc and other electronics to name a few. 

Ø  Set your vehicle alarm if you have one.  In addition to locking you vehicle doors, make sure if your vehicle has a latch to open a trunk or cargo area, and if it is equipped with a lock feature that you use it.

Ø  Do not announce on your email auto response that you are on vacation with the dates you are leaving or returning.  This includes both work and personal emails.  If you must leave an auto response reply it should contain as little information as possible. Example: I am currently away and periodically checking my emails.  If you need an immediate response, please contact Jane Doe at407-555-5555.

Ø  Do not announce to the whole community that you will be gone on vacation. This would include by word of mouth, voice mail and social networking sites (Facebook, My Space, Twitter, etc) Only let a few select and trusted friends or family members know so they can check the home for you.

Ø  Do not update your travel plans on social networking sites.  Example: We are having a blast in the islands… we go snorkeling tomorrow. Wishing you was here.  See you in two weeks. 

Ø  Turn down the ringer on your phone so it can’t be heard from the outside

Ø  Periodically retrieve your home messages so your voice mail does not get full.  This could be another indicator you are not home. 

Ø  Do a maintenance check of your alarm system prior to your departure.  Make sure they have updated contact information to include how to reach you as well as a trusted friend or relative in the area.