Family vacations are a time for you to spend having fun with your loved ones, not a time to worry about whether or not you and your property are safe. With these simple steps you can help improve the safety of your property and your loved ones, while you are out having fun.

• Have your mail delivery and/or newspaper deliveries either stopped or have someone come by and pick them up. Mail or newspapers that pile up are a sure sign to others that no one is home.
• Put a light and/or a radio or television on a timer so that they turn on and off at different intervals during the day, so it appears that someone is home.
• Make sure that all windows and doors are closed and locked prior to leaving. If you have a security alarm be sure to activate it.
• Consider getting a house sitter while you are away, but it you cannot find someone to stay at your house, be sure to use the above suggestions to help secure your home.

• Do not carry large amounts of cash with you; use traveler’s checks instead of cash whenever possible.
• Take only the credit cards you will be using while on vacation. If you have department store cards or other cards that you will not be using, leave them at home.
• Pack your bags in simple, inconspicuous luggage. Using expensive or "eye catching" luggage may draw unnecessary attention to your belongings.
• If traveling by plane, train or transportation other than by your own vehicle, be sure to keep valuables with you at all times. Do not pack expensive or valuable items in with any luggage that will be checked at stored in a location away from you.
• Travel and park in well lit areas. While parked, always keep your vehicle windows rolled up and the doors locked. If leaving valuables in the vehicle, keep them out of sight by locking them in the trunk.
• Keep a close on children at all times. Designate a meeting place for everyone, in the event that you and your child(ren) become separated. Teach your children what to do if they get separated from you.
• Carry purses or wallets close to your body. Storing wallets inside your clothing or wearing fanny packs are ideal ways to ensure these items are kept close and secure. This not only helps keep the items secure from potential thieves, but also helps keep items from falling out during amusement park rides.

Take these precautions to help increase your safety, so you can keep your vacation a fun and relaxing experience.

Check out our website for past crime types by logging onto www.nmsupolice.com.