Whether you’re looking for a fun getaway this summer or just trying to get to work on time, traveling can be stressful. You have to think about all the food and extra activities you’ll need for your kids and how you’re going to make sure they stay safe in unfamiliar surroundings. This article will discuss a few tips on keeping your family and home safe while traveling.
Some Important Tips
- Review vehicle safety seats before your trip. Be sure you have a backup seatbelt or booster seat if you’re renting a car. Check to make sure that children in your care have current immunizations, including booster shots if they are required.
- If your child is taking any prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last through your trip.
- Also, bring along any medical equipment that might be needed, such as breathing machines or feeding tubes.
- If you plan on taking pets with you while traveling, make sure they have up-to-date vaccinations and make sure they are wearing collars with an ID tag when they are outside.
- Keep an eye on all pets while they are outside.
- Tell someone where you’re going, even if it seems obvious. It’s important to let someone know where you are and how they can reach you in case of an emergency.
- Make sure to lock your doors and windows before leaving home. Invest in an alarm grid monitoring system, if needed.
- If you’re staying with relatives, call them before arriving to ensure they’ll be there to let you in. When in doubt, call ahead first.
- Bring at least one adult with you when visiting new places or people, especially if it’s outside of your hometown. Some areas have crime rates much higher than others.
- Be aware of the area around the location you’re staying at, including any fire hazards and any wildlife that might pose a threat. This can range from bees in a forested area to snakes in a rural area or scorpions on a desert island. If you have small children or pets, be extra careful about what dangers could be lurking nearby.
How to Keep Your Family Safe While Traveling
Pack the Right Stuff
Make sure you pack your child’s favorite stuffed animal, their go-to snack, and a change of clothes in their backpack. This will help comfort them in an unfamiliar environment.
Create a Safety Word
Tell your kids that if they feel like they’re in danger, they should say their safety words as loud as they can. This will alert you and others nearby that they need help.
Make Sure They Know Their Address
If your child is old enough to read, make sure they know how to read their home address, too. This will help them communicate directly with emergency personnel if needed.
Always Carry Contact Information
Have each member of your family carry contact information for each other, so there’s no confusion if something happens and you cannot find each other.
One of the most important things to do while traveling with minors is to keep an eye on them, so they don’t fall into danger. Make sure they stay clear of people who seem suspicious and that they stay away from drugs, alcohol, and other activities that might be illegal where you are.
Keep an eye on your house by checking in with your neighbors regularly. If you are not on good terms with your neighbor, ask a relative or friend to check the house while you’re gone.
