TOURISM Keep dream vacations safe ones

Don't take chances with your safety, and don't treat your belongings carelessly.
SCRIPPS HOWARD NEWS SERVICE
With the holiday season here, many people will be traveling to major cities and tourist attractions.
Vacations are supposed to be devoted to pleasure and relaxation. But while you're checking out new sights, others may you have in theirs.
Parents-Talk.com posted a few safety tips, released by AAA Wisconsin, to help make the difference between a dream vacation or a disastrous one.
A list of tips
UBe aware of your surroundings. Watch who is watching you.
UFlashing wads of cash may make a tourist an easy theft target. Consider a variety of payment methods to ensure maximum convenience and security. Traveler's checks are a good option because, if lost or stolen, they can be replaced. Keep serial numbers separate from the checks.
UUse credit cards to cover unexpected or very large expenses incurred while traveling. Credit charges are the easiest to challenge if services or merchandise purchased are unsatisfactory or incorrectly charged.
USplit up cash among family members so funds are still available should one person lose money. Carry enough money to cover tips, taxi fares, telephones and other miscellaneous small expenses.
UCarry money separately from credit cards or use a "fanny pack." Carry your purse close to your body and your wallet in an inside coat or front trouser pocket.
U Consider bringing an automatic teller machine (ATM) card on vacation. Withdraw only small amounts of cash as needed. When possible, do all ATM banking during daylight and business hours. After hours, use ATM machines located in grocery stores, malls or other busy areas.
UIf your car is bumped from behind or if someone says there is something wrong with your car, don't stop. Go to a service station or a well-lighted area and call for help.
Staying together
U Travel in groups when possible. Walk only in well-lighted areas and fill the gas tank before dark.
U Ask hotel front-desk personnel which areas of town to avoid and what, if any, special precautions should be taken when driving a rental car.
U Never leave video cameras, car phones or other expensive equipment visible in your car. Lock them in the trunk.
UMake sure the hotel desk clerk does not announce your room number; if so, quietly request a new room assignment.
U Preparation for a safe escape in case of fire in a hotel or motel begins at check-in. As you walk down the hallway, note the location of fire extinguishers and fire alarms. Count the number of doors between your room and the nearest exit; you may be forced to crawl on the floor in darkness and smoke to your exit.
UKeep your room key close to your bed, where you can easily find it.
UUse room safes or safety deposit boxes provided by the hotel. Store all valuables out of sight, even when you are in the room.
UUse deadbolt and other locks provided by the hotel.
UNever open the door to a stranger.