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Travel can be some of the more exciting times of our lives. The scenic Rockies, Gibraltar, Madrid, Hawaii, London, Hong Kong, Moscow - the list of destinations is never ending.

In recent years our concern for safety has grown, with news of bombings, shootings, kidnapping, and other violent crimes carried out against innocent citizens by a variety of violent groups. Even if the innocent traveler is not the target of the attack, they may be the unwitting victim.

Knowing that so many of us travel widely for both pleasure and business, we have developed this page to help you address your safety concerns. The frame to the left is a link to the U.S. State Department travel warnings page. On this side of the page, below, are some safety tips from Sean McWeeney, president of Corporate Risk International an expert in security. Please note these are advisory and should be used in conjunction with any other established security procedures and - as always - common sense.

Most of us, most of the time, don't lead lives that lend themselves to watching our neighborhood for signs of surveillance, or checking our rearview mirrors for someone following us. Many will scoff at a lot of the suggestions on the following pages.

Is that realistic, or is it self-deception?

A friend of mine was attacked in her home in front of her children. An older couple, living in the rural community where I grew up, were savagely beaten in their home by intruders. My cousin was killed when he surprised burglars in his house.

Recently a series of burglaries in the rural area where I live - a place where people didn't bother to lock their doors a few years ago - has me looking at alarm systems and, yes, keeping an eye out for people in surveillance in the area, casing the homes, waiting in prey.

Life is too short to be afraid to go outside, to - if you live where they do - leave your window open to hear the whippoorwills. That doesn't mean you have to be an ostrich and ignore reality. People have been preying on other people since Cain killed Abel. The wise person learns to take sensible precautions. If you make the effort to do some of the things suggested below, then they will soon become habits, worn as casually as your comfortable, old sweater.

Please read on, and please think about the suggestions with an open mind. Our editorial comments below appear in green type.

THE THREAT: TERRORISM AND CRIME IN THE U.S.A. AND OVERSEAS

Dangerous individuals have employed increasingly sophisticated methods of infiltration directed toward carrying out not only the kidnapping and extortion of executives and their family members but also the destruction of business property and personal property.

Terrorist groups here in the United States and overseas regularly pose a threat to executives – for no other reason that his / her being employed by an

Americans
are the
number 1
target of
terrorist
organizations
worldwide.

American company or educational institution.

Unfortunately, Americans are still the number one target of terrorist organizations worldwide. These terrorist groups target Americans with a variety of motives in mind - some economic, some religious - but mostly for short-term political gain.

Adding to the threat from terrorist groups is the threat presented by "criminal" gangs overseas and "criminal misfits" in the United States that specialize in kidnapping executives and extorting American companies with the threat of injury to an executive and/or his family members or destruction of company property or the contamination of its products.

Kidnappings and Extortions Overseas:

The majority of kidnappings and extortions of businesses and their executives overseas are perpetrated by highly organized gangs of terrorists and criminals. This holds true in major areas of Western Europe, such as Holland, Turkey, and Greece, the Middle East, the Phillipines, and in parts of Central and South

Most
kidnappings
and extortions
overseas are by
highly organized
terrorist and
criminal gangs.

America. The principal aim of political terrorists organizations is to obtain not only money (through extortion) but also publicity for their cause.

Again, the important point to remember in all kidnappings and extortions is that Americans are the primary targets overseas, whether the group committing the act is a terrorist or criminal organization.

Kidnappings and Extortions in the USA:

Most kidnappings and extortions in the USA are not long-term (as they frequently are overseas), and the gangs are generally not well organized. Most activities of this sort are carried out by loners or small connected groups such as husband/wife, brothers, or boyfriend/girlfriend. Because of the generally poor planning of these operations and the personality of the perpetrators, kidnap or extortion schemes in the United States often go awry and negotiations can break down easily, increasing the danger of physical harm to the victims.

A little known fact, principally because of the astronomical crime rate in most major US cities, is that the United States is one of the world's leaders in the number of kidnappings and extortions committed annually. Recent FBI statistics indicate that there are approximately 500 kidnappings per year (many of those for ransom) and approximately 2000 extortions per year. These crimes are obviously a major problem for law enforcement, and executives, in particular, have to remain "security aware" to better protect themselves and their families.

General Crime Conditions:

All one has to do is read the morning newspaper, listen to the radio or watch news reports to realize that serious crime (armed robbery, murder, rape, burglary, drug trafficking, assault and battery, "celebrity stalking", carjackings, etc.) is rampant throughut our communities in the United States. But we are not alone in this problem. Many other countries are also being forced to come to grips with it.

The Commonwealth of Independent States) formerly Soviet Union) and many former Eastern-bloc nations are plagued with organized extortion rings and an alarming assortment of violent criminals. Skyjackings of commercial aircraft are a major problem in the CIS. Italy now has a more serious cocaine abuse problem, per capita, than the United States; and serious crime is on the increase in several other nations in Western Europe.

On the other side of the world, Australia has seen a recent influx of organized criminal groups into their major cities and a resultant increase in general crime. In South America, Colombia's murder rate, especially in the cities of Bogota and Cali, continues to be at a staggering level. Armed kidnappers, many in their teens, stalk tourists and businessmen in certain areas of Rio de Janiero. Crime is on the rise in the capital cities of Caracas, Venezuela and Buenos Aires, Argentina. And the list goes on.

"Security awareness"
is a proven
philosophy.

It is vital that today's business executive (and university/college employee) and his/her family be extremely careful concerning personal security, particularly when traveling outside familiar surroundings. "Security awareness" is a vital safety component in the high-crime atmosphere so prevalent in many areas of the world. "Security awareness" is simply remaining alert within your environment - always being aware of what is normal and commonplace about where you live and work, in order to immediately detect the unusual. The following sections deal with some simple guidelines of executive protection.

SAFE TRAVEL

DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL AIR TRAVEL

Domestic

Generally, air travel in the United States is safe, and one should feel free from the threat of violence or serious crime while in our airports. However, when utilizing airlines that are in the midst of bankruptcy proceedings, one should always be aware of the problems in connection with aircraft maintenance that may arise from morale problems engendered by financial austerity measures.

International:

Executives employed by international companies (and employees and students of colleges and universities traveling internationally) are more likely to encounter serious threats when flying and traveling overseas. Commercial aviation is a prime target of the more militant and aggressive international terrorist organizations. United States air carriers are most vulnerable, again, because Americans are their primary target; however, other nations' air fleets face serious threats as well. For example, El Al Airlines, considered the "safest" airline by many because of its stringent security procedures, is also one of the "most threatened" airlines in the world due to the ongoing tensions involving Israel and its Arab neighbors. The frequent international air traveler must carefully consider these unpleasant realities when choosing air carriers and when traveling into potentially dangerous areas.

The following guidelines, many of which apply to any type of travel, will prepare one for secure and safe travel and substantially reduce the chances of becoming a victim while traveling overseas:

Prior Preparation:

For each long-distance trip, maintain an "emergency file" at work or home (preferably in both locations) that contains information that might be needed during any type of emergency such as a kidnapping. This file should include at least the following:
- A current detailed itinerary
- A photocopy of your passport and vaccination certificate
- Blood type and Rh factor
- Eyeglass prescription
- The name of your doctor, dentist, and attorney
- A list of traveler's check numbers
- Copies of bank deposit slips
- Copies of essential insurance policies
- A copy of your will
- A note regarding any financial matters that should be attended to in case of a prolonged absence
- A power of attorney for spouse or relative
If someone is at home then this idea will work. If no one is at home and you're relying on a copy at the office your luck may not be as good. What if the emergency occurs during a holiday and no one can be found in your office?

If there is any interest in doing so we can set up a central, secured repository for such documents in the Office of Risk Management. Someone is always available from our office.
Ensure that an uncomplicated communication or notification plan is coordinated with your spouse and/or secretary, or office colleague (or, as mentioned above, part of your "travel package" on file with ORM). An example would be a pre-arranged telephone call that, if not received, would signal trouble.
Ensure that all important documents are up-to-date. This should include all property documents, tax and medical records, vehicle registrations, bank statements, employment records, and personal address list.
Coordinate all official travel requirements through a school-approved travel organization.
In conjunction with the Office of Risk Management, ensure that a personal profile package is on file and kept up to date. The package should contain the following basic descriptive data on each employee and family member:
- Color photograph
- Height, weight, color of eyes and hair, scars/marks
- Handwriting samples
- Fingerprints
- Voice samples
- A description of any medical problems
- "Proof-of-life" questions (those questions to which only your spouse or close colleague know the answer). These questions would be for the use of law enforcement personnel during any negotiations if an employee or family member were to be taken hostage by criminal or terrorist kidnappers. A sample question would be, "What is the nickname of your aunt who lives is upstate New York?"
You've got to be kidding! Right? It's not the sort of thing we think of doing and there is a limit to what any of us will usually do along these lines. However, if you will be traveling out of the country, it's worth considering. Little things could mean the difference between life and death in a hostage situation.

Emergency Plan:

Ensure that your spouse and your secretary have in their possession the names and telephone numbers of the following individuals/entities:

Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs, Citizens Emergency Center (24-hour number: 202-647-5225). This bureau would be the primary point of contact with the U.S. Government if an emergency of any sort were to occur. It also issues travel advisories and security conditions at various airports for U.S. travelers. (See the frame to the left.)
Federal Bureau of Investigation Headquarters (24-hour number: 202-324-3000). Call if the crisis is believed to be a kidnapping or extortion matter. The local FBI office in the area where your university/college campus is located can also be contacted. The phone number is usually in the front of the local city telephone directory. Visit their web site.
United States Embassy/Consulate. The telephone numbers can be obtained by contacting the Department of State Operations Center. The 24-hour telephone number is 202-647-1512. If you have any problem with security, you should first contact the Regional Security Officer that is assigned to the Embassy/Consulate. It is also recommended that the name and phone number of the FBI Legal Attaché assigned to cover the country visited be accessible. The Operations Center at the State Department may be able to obtain that information; if not, FBI Headquarters or your local FBI office can provide the necessary information. Visit their web sites.

Remember, the FBI has personnel physically residing in principal locations worldwide - Rome, London, Madrid, Bogota, Brussels, Bern, Manila, Canberra, etc. However, all world regions are assigned to a specific FBI agent.
Your campus security/police department's phone number. If your campus does not have 24-hour security, use IUPD-Bloomington's number, 812-855-4111.

Web Sites

IUPD-IUB

IUPD-IUPUI

IUPD-IUE

IUPD-IUK

IUPD-IUNW

IUPD-IUSB

IUPD-IUS
Host country embassy, Washington, D.C. - again, the telephone number can be obtained through the state department. Directory of foreign embassies.
The Department of State's main telephone number is 202-647-4000. Individual country supervisors assigned to the State Department can be contacted through this central number. Visit their web site.

Preflight Checklist:

The following travel tips concern that period of time leading up to your international flight:

If you plan to drive yourself once you arrive at your overseas destination, obtain an international driver's license prior to leaving the United States.

You should be aware that driving yourself while overseas is not as secure as hiring a driver or taking a taxi or public transportation.
Make sure that neither you nor your secretary make any reference to your rank or responsibilities in the university/college when making reservations in your name. Further, your secretary, associates and family should be extremely careful about revealing your travel plans to those who do not "need to know." For obvious security reasons, tell as few people as possible.
Do not carry fancy, expensive luggage.
Do not plan to wear or display expensive jewelry, furs or clothes while traveling. Keep all such items in checked luggage if needed for attending social gatherings overseas. Before you decide to ignore this advice, remember that in some cities people are killed for their sneakers and fingers are cut off to steal rings.
Consider exchanging your passport if it shows prior travel to countries whose policies are (or were) the subject of controversy - e.g., South Africa. The U.S. State Department will charge you for a new one, incidentally. When you receive your new passport, go to a stationary store and purchase a plain cover for it.
Do not carry on your person identification cards that show you are part of a military reserve unit, the National Guard, the American Legion, VFW, police reserve or Fraternal Order of Police, or a political party.

Such cards and most business cards, if needed, should be placed in checked baggage.
Remove from your wallet or purse all credit cards and other items not needed overseas or during your trip.
If traveling to Muslim countries, leave any alcohol and/or racy magazines at home. Playboy is considered pornographic in some Islamic nations.

Also, be careful of carrying with you any reading material or literature that might offend officials of the most fundamentalist of the Islamic countries.
Become knowledgeable of any travel advisories that have been issued for the country you are visiting.

(The web page in the frame to the right should contain up-to-date information.)
For each country you are visiting, be aware of local laws and regulations concerning visa, currency, drugs, medicines, travel limitations, vaccinations, etc. The U.S. State Department has issued stringent warnings to all American travelers concerning the carrying of illegal drugs into foreign jurisdictions. In many countries, those who possess and use illegal drugs are punished severely. Concerning prescription drugs, the State Department advises that travelers leave all medicine in their original labeled containers and that a copy of the doctor's prescription be carried on the trip
Do not use luggage tags that display a U.S. company logo.
Needless to say, your luggage should be the hard, lockable type.

At the Airport and In Transit:

Once you have checked in and your luggage has been processed, go immediately through security. Do not linger in the public areas of an airport. There are usually a number of restaurants, news outlets, rest rooms, etc., inside the security line at most airports.
Refrain as much as possible from engaging in idle conversation with starngers at the airport. Remain inconspicuous and maintain a low profile.
Never discuss business or travel plans with any of the passengers traveling with you or with any of the airplane's crew, unless it relates to the specific flight you are on.
Be as vague as possible regarding where you will be staying. Do not divulge your company name or your title to strangers. Refer to yourself as a "businessman/business woman." As a university traveler, consider the ramifications of revealing what you do or what your specialty is. Depending on the country you are in, is it wise to tell people you are a "nuclear physicist", or what your position at the Kinsey Institute is, or that you are an expert on the life of Stalin?
Do not leave your carry-on baggage unattended at any time. This is particularly important while in overseas airports. There is the obvious danger of luggage theft or tampering. Further, some customs officials, upon discovering unattended luggage, have been known to destroy it summarily.
Avoid handling any unattended luggage you see in any airport. Call security immediately! Why? Bombs, for one reason.
Do not carry large amounts of cash
Make it a practice to use travelers checks and more popular credit cards (Mastercard, VISA, American Express). Record your travelers checks numbers separate from the checks themselves. Do the same with your credit cards - since numbers may be needed in the event the cards are lost or stolen.
When arriving at your destination, continue to maintain a low profile. Verify your baggage through baggage claim receipts. Be sure to keep close, personal control of your briefcase and personal hand-carried baggage, particularly if you are carrying sensitive documents. You should be aware that many foreign countries, even those friendly to the United States, regularly conduct "trade espionage" against executives of U.S. companies.
After customs inspection, go immediately to your in-country transportation link.
When arriving at overseas airports, avoid using limousines.
Keep a low profile, complete your checkout procedures as quickly as possible and go to your hotel by either public trabsportation or in a nondescript vehicle with a business associate or friend.
In most countries, taxis lined up in front of the air terminal are safe and dependable. If you have any doubts, seek out a local police officer and obatin his/her recommendation. In many countries, particularly in Western Europe, tarvel by bus or rail from from the airport to downtown hotel areas is just as secure as taking a taxi and, in many cases, faster and more economical.
Be alert while waiting in taxi, bus or rail terminals and while traveling on a bus or by rail.

Petty thieves and pickpockets prey on tired travelers burdened down with baggage.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU BECOME A HOSTAGE

In the event you become a hostage due to either hijacking of your aircraft by terrorists, or kidnapping by a criminal or terrorist gang, the following guidelines should be followed:

Above all, remain calm. Appear cooperative, be polite, follow instructions and do not argue or provoke the captors. Listen carefully to their initial demands to make sure you understand what may be demanded of you. The first few moments of a hijacking and kidnapping are the most dangerous for the victim. The subjects will be extremely nervous and you should do nothing to cause them alarm.
Try and establish some type of relationship with your captors. Discuss your family or pets with them. If you have photos, and they display an interest, show them. Try to get the captors to discuss their families. Do not discuss religion or politics, particularly the latter, when dealing with the terrorists. Make every effort to win their respect for you. It is not necessary to grovel and plead or demean yourself in any way. Be yourself, as best you can, considering the circumstances. Do not lose faith with yourself. Remember, you did nothing wrong! They are at fault, not you!
Try to remain alert throughout the incident. Keep your physical and emotional strength as high as possible. Try to avoid depression, and always keep in mind that law enforcement and civil authorities are doing everything possible to end your ordeal. Exercise by stretching in place or by rolling your neck and limbs. Sleep and wash up when you can, and eat and drink when you get the chance. Think thoughts of your family, say a favorite prayer, sing a song to yourself. Do not give up. Remember, you did nothing wrong!
Keep track as best you can of sounds and movements, inside and outside of where you are held. Mentally note all that you can about your captors-their dress, mannerisms, accents, titles, if any, etc. This type of information will be helpful to law enforcement officials when the incident is over.
If the incident is lengthy, remember that the "Stockholm Syndrome" may come into play. This phenomenon is named for a bank hostage situation that took place in Sweden. During the course of the ordeal, the victim began to display strong positive feelings for the kidnapper. This has been attributed to the tremendous psychological stress that victims are under and their overwhelming determination to survive the incident, no matter what. This is not a problem and fortunately, is not permanent. The malady is very common, particularly in long-term hostage situations. When it occurs, the captors usually make note of it, and experience shows they are less likely to harm the victims.
If your captivity is lengthy, it is imperative that you establish regular mental and physical exercise routines. If space is provided, walk daily and do in-place exercises. If you are confined in close quarters, do isometrics or in-place stretching exercises. Keep your mind active. Read if material is available. Do memory exercises. Keep a mental calendar of what has happened to you. Do problem solving. Make up a story or write a novel in your mind about your experience. Even daydream!
Consider escape attempts only as a last resort and only if chances of success are extremely high. The FBI advises that there are almost no circumstances under which an escape attempt is recommended. Escape attempts, according to the FBI, should be a last resort. Remember that law enforcement officials are negotiating for your release and these negotiations are the means by which your ordeal most likely will be ended. Always remember that you are worth more alive than dead to the captors, because law enforcement negotiators will not pay ransom unless they are given proof that you are alive. So have patience, and try to do the best you can in your situation.
If a rescue attempt occurs, get to the floor immediately. If possible, cover your head with your hands and arms. Do not make any false moves! Let the rescuers know where you are (and who you are) by yelling out your name. You can plan for this occurrence by noting ahead of time the location of furniture you can hide behind when the rescue action begins.

SAFE TRAVEL BY VEHICLE

NORMAL TRAVEL PRODECURES

The best advice for safe travel by vehicle when going to and from work, particularly for the executive assigned overseas, is to vary your routine. People have a tendency to fall into repetitious patterns-leaving their home at the same time every morning, stopping for coffee and the morning newspaper at the same restaurant or convenience shop, going to lunch at the same time and to the same restaurant every day, etc. Driving patterns for most people going to and from work hardly ever change from day to day.

Studies show that most criminal and terrorist kidnappings of executives occur between 7:00 am and 9:00 am, almost always on a workday - as opposed to a weekend or a holiday. The reason is that, on workdays, people's lives are more predictable.

A recent kidnapping of a high-ranking oil executive in the United States occurred early in the morning as he stepped from his vehicle to pick up the morning newspaper at the end of his driveway. According to his wife, he did this every day on his way to work. The kidnappers, obviously aware of his routine through prior physical surveillance, were waiting in a van at the end of the driveway to grab him. Similarly, a U.S. Bank CEO was recently kidnapped at gunpoint as he pulled into his regular parking space during the early morning hours. The investigation revealed that the lone kidnapper had the executive under surveillance and knew that he parked in the identical space at approximately the same time each morning. The bank executive escaped from his kidnapper; however, the oil executive, unfortunately, was treated brutally by his abductors and died during captivity.

Again, remember to avoid set routines, whether going to and from work, playing tennis with a friend or family member or going to church. The following precautions should be followed when traveling by vehicle:

Vary the times at which you leave for work. Do the same when leaving work to go home. Park in a different space or floor periodically if you park your car in an unguarded car garage. Take a taxi to work occasionally. Call a friend and car pool once in a while. Exchange company cars. The important thing is to vary the routine especially in the morning and evening hours, the times when executives are most at risk from kidnappers and terrorists.
When driving, keep your doors locked and your windows opened only a crack, if at all. Keep your ignition key separate and never leave the trunk key with parking or service attendants. Also, be sure to place your car phone on "lock" when parking a car in an attended parking lot.
Never pick up hitchhikers or stop (particularly at night or early in the morning) for someone who is standing by what appears to be a disabled vehicle in an isolated location.

From a pure security perspective, this is excellent advice. Most of us, at least while traveling in the United States, are not at a great risk from kidnapping. Most of us would be inclined to stop for a stranded motorist, especially in inclement weather, if children were present, and so on. Keep in mind, though, that you are always at risk these days. Think before you stop, be alert and be prepared. Men are typically at less risk than women, but anyone can be ambushed (think back to what happened to Bill Cosby's son). A cellular phone is a great piece of equipment to carry with you!
Vary your routes to and from work. Be surveillance-conscious. Periodically look in your rear view mirror and watch who is behind you. Drive on major thoroughfares whenever possible.
If you have good reason be believe you are being surveilled, go directly to a police station. There have been enough serious kidnapping incidents of executives that most police officials will take your report seriously. If a police station is not convenient, go to another "safe haven", such as a fire station, hospital, 24-hour convenience store, service station, or the like. Call police from that location and report your suspicions. If your car has a telephone, call 911 and report this situation directly from the car. Also, consider keeping a hand-held tape recorder in your glove compartment to immediately note suspicious vehicles or individuals.
Do not stop your car if an attacker attempts to pull you over or block your movement. Call 911 if you have a car phone. Blow your horn and blink your headlights on and off to attract attention. If stopped, do not leave the confines of your locked car unless ordered to do so at gunpoint.
Whenever possible, attempt to park your car in a secure parking area. Do not leave your vehicle parked on the street unattended overnight. Keep your car locked and always check inside and outside the car when reentering.
Needless to say, vehicles should be well-maintained and the gas tank near full at all times; there should be a usable spare tire in the trunk, and all passengers should wear their seat belts at all times while the car is in motion.

VEHICLE EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

The executive’s business and/or family car should be a make and model in keeping with a low-profile, yet comfortable, lifestyle - for example, a hard-top four-door sedan instead of a two-door sports coupe or convertible. We all know that the hard-top may be much more expensive than the sports coupe or a convertible; however, the coupe will undoubtedly attract more attention. And undue attention is what we are trying to avoid. Remember: always strive to keep a low profile; it's the most secure way to live.

The following are safety and security precautions that an executive should be aware of concerning his company and family vehicles. If assigned overseas, particularly to a hostile or unstable country, all of the following precautions should be fully complied with:

Install a burglar alarm.
Install a car phone with a remote speaker. In countries that have no such capability, consider installing a CB radio hookup.
Ensure that the gas cap, trunk, and hood compartments are lockable. Keep your vehicle locked at all times when not in use. At home, do not leave your car in the driveway or street overnight. Always garage it when not in use.
Equip your vehicle with the following safety equipment: small fire extinguisher, all- weather disc brakes, first aid equipment, flashlight, road flares. For high threat areas include the following: a hand-held high-intensity spotlight, a blanket and foul weather gear, usable spare tire with run flat capacity, air bags (driver and front passenger) and a vehicle locator beacon.
In unsafe regions of the world, consider installing special equipment in your company vehicle such as: an inside hood latch, an antibomb bolt installed at the end of the exhaust pipe, dual batteries, electric locks, siren/p.a. system and ram bumpers.
In particularly dangerous and hostile areas, consider installing bullet-proof glass and special heavy duty undercarriages. These types of protective measures will probably have to be coordinated with your corporate security department that may want to recommend additional items.

HOTEL SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS WHILE TRAVELING OVERSEAS

With the exception of the several four-and five-star hotels, most hotels overseas view security and safety as a low priority. Many fire safety features and security measures that are standard in all United States hotels and motels are deficient or nonexistent in numerous foreign hotels. The following precautions should be taken into consideration as a way to help ensure your safety and security while staying in a hotel abroad.

FIRE SAFETY

Many of these are excellent recommendations for any hotel/motel you may stay in!

First and foremost, do some prior planning and find out as much as you can about the hotels in the country you are visiting. Consider using an American chain hotel if one is available. They generally have standards similar to those in the United States. Attempt to determine when the hotel was built. The more modern the hotel, the more likely that routine safety features, such as sprinkler systems and smoke alarms, have been added. Do not hesitate to ask about safety and security at any hotel you stay in.
When making reservations for your hotel, insist on a room no higher than the seventh floor - since most fire department ladders will not reach beyond that floor.
Once you have registered, carefully observe the lobby, noting the exits out of the hotel, where the taxi stand is located, etc., so as to be prepared in the unlikely event that you may have to make a quick exit due to a security problem or a fire.
Also, find the exit signs for your floor, walk from your room to them, memorizing the number of doors along the way. In the event of a fire, you probably will not be able to see because of the smoke and will have to navigate by feeling your way as you crawl along the corridor to the exit.
If you have any suspicions regarding the safety situations at your hotel, take the time to carefully check for blocked doors or stairs. Walk down the staircase to the lobby and up the staircase to the roof. If the hotel is a high rise, and you are on a lower floor, take an elevator up to a floor near the roof and walk up from there. If you note any obstructions, notify management, and, if they fail to respond or show interest in your complaint or observations, consider moving to a different hotel.
Checking the roof exit out is not an unreasonable precaution. Many devastating hotel fires have begun on the ground or lobby floor in casinos or restaurant/bars, where no escape through the lobby exit was possible.
Include a small flashlight as part of your standard travel kit for use during a fire in a hotel or an electrical blackout. Before retiring, make sure your room key is accessible; take it with you if leaving the room during a fire since you may have to return to the room if you cannot make it safely to an exit.
If there is a smoke detector in your room, test it and, if it does not work, have it immediately fixed by management or have them move you to another room.
If there is a fire, check first to see if your phone is in order; if so, call the front desk or the fire department or police department and let them know where you are. Ask for instructions and find out if it is safe to evacuate the room. If your phone is out of order or you cannot raise anyone, evacuate the room for the stair exits. If the lobby is clear of smoke, go down the stairs first toward the lobby; if smoke or fire prevents you from continuing, go up toward the roof fire exit or return to your room and await rescue. If smoke begins to seep into your room, immediately open a window and turn on the bathroom vent. Put wet towels under the door and place a wet towel over your nose and mouth to help prevent being overcome by smoke. Hang a white sheet from your window to let firefighters know where you are. If the fire is near your room, combat it by pouring bathtub and basin water from waste baskets onto hot walls and/or the hotel room door. Throw all combustible material in the room (drapes, blankets, clothes) out the window if the fire begins to breach the room's interior.

HOTEL SECURITY

In hostile or unstable countries, contact the U.S. Embassy for their recommendations for hotel space. (See State Department contact cited earlier in this booklet). The Embassy will have the most current readout on local crime conditions, terrorist movement, current threats, etc.
For general security reasons, to avoid crime and terrorist problems, do not stay on the ground or first floor, since occupants on those hotel floors are the most vulnerable to burglars, armed robbers and terrorists.
Many hotels require that you show your passport, so avoid using any aliases when registering unless extreme security precautions call for doing so.
When you arrive at your room, make sure that the lock is in working order. If not, ask the desk to change your room. Consider carrying a portable door lock in your travel- ready kit.
Do not open your hotel room door to a stranger. If someone claims to be with the police or with the hotel, call to the front desk immediately for confirmation.
Female executives, if concerned, should not hesitate to request that hotel personnel escort them to their room if returning late in the evening.
Keep your money, any expensive jewelry (which you should generally avoid bringing overseas) and sensitive business and personal papers in the hotel's safe deposit box.
In high-risk countries, arrange business meetings at your hotel. Try to avoid meeting your business counterparts at their offices. Terrorist takeovers of offices are common occurrences in some countries, and Americans are often the principle target.
Leave the television on when leaving your hotel room to give the impression that you are still there. Take your room key with you instead of leaving it at the front desk.
Do not under any circumstances, open any packages or envelopes sent to your hotel unless you know the sender.
Use trusted hotel staff or local business associates to advise you of routes (walking or driving) to take for tours, travel or business or social engagements, etc. When leaving your hotel, keep to the better traveled thoroughfares, particularly when out walking. Stay away from any obviously "seedy" areas or "backalley" locations. Do no resist armed robbers or violent muggers. Do not try to be a hero. Your life and well-being is worth much more than whatever money or valuables you may lose.

SECURITY AT YOUR OFFICE AND HOME

The FBI reports that American business executives are becoming an increasingly attractive target for kidnappers and extortionists. Although the chances of being a victim of a kidnapping or extortion attempt are generally low, executives employed by high- profile, successful companies do possess what the FBI calls the "common elements of money, power and high public visibility" which increase their chances of being victimized.

While your company probably has in place a crisis management plan to address a variety of incidents affecting executives, there are several precautionary steps that each executive should take.

SECURITY AT THE OFFICE

Refer to the prior section concerning the preparation and maintenance of an "emergency file" and a "personal profile package" - both at home and at the office.

Be sure to establish a communication plan with your secretary to provide early warning of any potential danger to yourself. Simple code words or prearranged phone calls are all that is necessary.

Instruct all secretaries and other support staff never to release any information of a personal nature (such as home phone, address, or travel plans) to unauthorized personnel or strangers. Even if the caller is known, any release of information should be on a need- to-know basis.

Ensure that there are precautions in place to verify the identity of all persons visiting executives and who are not personally known to in-house staff. Do not hesitate to use the firm's security department to help in this endeavor. Secretaries and receptionists have to be security aware and alert regarding any strangers attempting to visit an executive without an appointment. It is also vitally important to be aware of strangers loitering near an executive's office or desk.

Office personnel also face risks from mail delivery. Basic signs or recognition-points of "troubled mail" or packages (mailbombs, for example) are as follows:

Restrictive markings, such as "confidential," "personal" or "eyes only."
Excessive postage or foreign postmark.
A postmark that conflicts with the return address.
Handwritten or poorly typed address.
An incorrect title for an executive.
Misspellings of common words.
Oily stains or discolorations or odors.(Many explosives smell like shoe polish or almonds.)
Excessive envelope weight (two to five ounces.)
Rigidity in the envelope, lack of uniformity or thickness, or unbalanced appearance.
Protruding wires, tape or string.

Standard procedure should be to refuse any package delivered by a stranger until the person's identity and nature of the parcel is determined.

Be aware of telephone calls from strangers advising that a family member has been involved in an accident and that you should leave work immediately and go to a specified location. Verify all such calls. It is important to be aware of the daily activities of your family members since an extortion or kidnapping scenario would probably involve a call of this sort.
Report any suspicious activity to your security office. This includes any suspected surveillance activity to and from work, any strangers lurking near your parked vehicle, strange telephone calls, etc. Trust your judgment. If you sense something is wrong, you may very well be right. Remember; try to always be aware of what is routine and normal in your work environment so that you will instantly notice any unusual happenings that could threaten your security.
Discourage executives, women in particular, from working alone late at night and on holidays or weekends when the remainder of the staff is absent.
Discourage executives from using "vanity" license plates which call unnecessary attention to themselves or the corporation.
Limit specially marked corporate parking spaces to areas where corporate security staff has full perimeter control.
As mentioned repeatedly in this document, vary your routine when traveling to and from work to avoid being predictable to potential kidnappers and/or terrorists.
Instruct secretaries to remain calm and listen carefully when receiving a threatening telephone call, such as a bomb threat or extortion demand. A secretary should obtain and record as much detail about the call and the caller as possible - for example, the exact wording of the threat, the name of the caller, the exact demand, description of the caller (voice inflection, accent) and any background noises such as street noises, music, etc.
Do not tempt petty thieves (or, worse, those bent on industrial espionage) by leaving money, jewelry, valuables or important and sensitive business papers unsecured. Implement a clean desk policy for yourself and your support staff. Keep valuables and company documents and other important business papers locked up when you are not there.
Do not leave computer password codes, safe combinations or keys to your desk unsecured. This should apply to your support staff as well.

SECURITY AT YOUR HOME

Physical Security:

Ensure that all exterior doors (including those to an outside porch, balcony, garage and basement) are equipped with high-quality locks. You should have a qualified locksmith assist you.
Use a dead-bolt lock on your primary entrance doors to your home.
If you have just moved into your home, have all locks in the house changed immediately.
Ensure that you control and regularly account for all keys to your exterior doors. As an example, domestics (maids, nannys, etc.) should only be given keys to one of the primary doors. They should not have keys to all entry doors to the residence. Similarly, it is not a good idea to give young children keys to all the entry doors to the residence; one key to one primary entry door is sufficient.
When leaving the residence at any time, be sure to lock all doors. When at home, keep all unused doors locked.
Have installed in your residence an electronic alarm system monitored by a 24-hour computerized central station. When installed, test your alarm system on a regular basis to ensure that the response company is, in fact, closely monitoring your home's system.
To help deter and forestall criminal intrusion, have outdoor security lighting professionally installed at your residence. Well-lit yards, front and back, will present intruders with a formidable deterrent. Floodlights in the yards should have their circuitry tied in to the home's electronic alarm system so that, in the event the alarm is tripped, the floodlights will automatically illuminate the house and front and back yards. In addition, a panic switch (or possibly several switches) should be installed inside the house to allow the occupants to turn on the floodlights when the alarm is not on.
Install automatic timers and photo-electric cells that will turn your outdoor security lighting system on and off at predetermined times when you are away on vacation or a business trip.
Make sure that your security lighting system can be activated by all family members through hand-held remote devices from inside the house or from a vehicle approaching the residence.
Place the lights inside your residence on variable timing devices to give a lived-in appearance when the residence is unoccupied.
Equip the garage door with an electronic garage door opener. Garage door openers and house keys should be removed when taking your car in for maintenance and when using valet parking.
Do not minimize the importance of window security. Install a "charlie bar" or rod along the track of all sliding glass doors in your home and any sliding glass windows located off the first floor or basement. Ensure your alarm system guards against entry to the residence through first floor windows. Keep your windows locked when they are shut.
Install a peep hole and/or interview grille in the main entrance door to your home. Consider an intercom system to verify identities of visitors at the main entrance to the home.
If no family members suffer from allergies, consider getting a dog. They can be very effective in scaring off intruders. If allergies are a problem, consider purchasing a recording device with the sound of a dog barking. These devices are electronically activated.
If you sense a serious threat to your (or your family's) safety, discuss with your corporate security department the possibility of obtaining a two-way radio link from the home to outside security and/or the setting up of a "safe room" within the home.
Establish secure telephone procedures for the whole family and regularly update them and review them. You should have an unlisted home telephone number. Maintain a current list of emergency telephone numbers (fire, police, hospital, doctor, corporate security, etc.) and keep this list stored near all telephones in the house.
When traveling or away on vacation, have a trusted neighbor pick up your mail and newspaper and put out your garbage. You can return the favor when your neighbor is going to be away.

FIRE SAFETY AT HOME

As noted previously, be sure to keep emergency telephone numbers for the fire department, ambulance service and police department near or on the phones inside the living areas of your home.
If, for security reasons, you have installed an inner deadbolt lock on your main entrance doors and that lock is keyed, ensure that all residents in the home, particularly children, know exactly where the key is kept in order to facilitate the swift and safe evacuation of the home in the event of a fire.
Establish and practice a fire escape plan with the other members of your family. This is particularly important if there are elderly persons or young children living at home. Children can panic in a fire, and they tend to hide instead of seeking immediate safety. When the smoke alarm goes off, everyone should get out of the burning house as quickly as possible.
Again, if children are in the household, conduct a fire drill at least annually - preferably twice each year.
Test smoke alarms at least once every three months. Be sure that everyone is aware of the peculiar sound emitted from your alarm and that it is loud enough to be heard from behind a closed bedroom or bathroom door. Batteries should be replaced at least once a year.
A portable fire extinguisher(s) should be purchased for your home. Check to make sure the extinguisher works and that all members of the family know how to operate it.
For those executives assigned overseas, ensure that electrical wiring in the house or apartment meets international standards. The principal cause of home fires is faulty wiring. Contact your local embassy for help in this regard. They will be able to assist you in locating a competent electrician.

DOMESTIC HELP - SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS

Most important, ensure that you thoroughly pre-screen any domestic help that you are considering hiring, particularly those that will be assisting you in caring for your children. Your corporate security office should be able to recommend qualified persons to help you conduct a thorough background investigation. A background investigation should include at least:
1. A criminal check (local, state and federal).
2. A credit check (with the permission of the prospective employee).
3. A check of prior employers for references.
4. Verification of education if domestic help is being hired to work with your children.
Instruct all domestics on your rules regarding the admission of strangers to the home. In the same regard, domestic help should be reminded to be suspicious of bulk mail parcels or other unplanned deliveries.
Remind domestic staff to remain "security aware" at all times and report any suspicious activity immediately. They must be briefed on the proper way to answer the door, the proper procedures regarding the admittance of visitors or repairmen and the answering of telephones. Most important among these procedures is to always give the impression the "people are home, but not now currently available." Always get the name and telephone number of the person who called. All domestics should be instructed in how to contact the executive or spouse in the event of an emergency.
Do not discuss sensitive information in the presence of domestic staff. This includes any family plans and any official business dealings. The executive should be circumspect in discussing confidential business within earshot of a domestic. Travel itineraries should not be left in open, accessible places.
Remind domestic staff to be particularly alert for any strangers lurking or hanging around the neighborhood. Experience has shown that experienced kidnappers conduct extensive prior surveillance of a prospective kidnapping site. Encourage staff to report any such activity immediately, and do not hesitate to follow up their report with the local police.

YOUNG CHILDREN AT HOME

The most important lessons you can teach a young child is how to behave when confronted by a stranger. Here is some simple advice.

Tell your children never to go anywhere with anyone without a parent's permission. With close and trusted relatives, friends and neighbors, allow your child to go with them only if they give the child a simple and predetermined password.
Encourage your child to report any untoward approaches by strangers immediately to you or, in your absence, an authority figure such as a teacher, police officer, fireman or a neighbor, friend or member of your domestic staff.
Teach your children how to use the telephone. Make sure they know their home telephone number, address, and how to call emergency numbers such as 911.
Do not allow your children to ride alone on public transportation or in taxicabs.
Teach children about "safe havens," those places they can go for help if a stranger presents an immediate problem. "Safe havens" can be the corner store, a "7-Eleven" convenience store, fire station, school, neighbor's home.
Tell your children never to reveal that he/she is home alone when talking to strangers on the phone. The child should say simply that his/her parents are "busy" or "upstairs" and request the caller to give their phone number so the parents can call back.
Try not to leave children home alone. When necessary to do so, make sure they know to keep all doors locked and instruct them not to let anyone in until the parents come back home.

OTHER SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING CHILDREN

Caution children against discussing family wealth and the parent's job with neighbor children or schoolmates.
Instruct babysitters concerning telephone "security awareness," fire safety and emergency telephone procedures prior to entrusting them with your children.
Encourage children to travel in groups to and from school and to avoid isolated play areas. When children go out to play, parents or authorized domestic help should know exactly with whom (and where) the child will be playing.
Make sure school authorities are aware of any arrangements you may have made regarding the transportation of your children home from school by anyone other than immediate family.

Domestic (USA) Carjacking - The Latest Urban Crime Wave

In many of our large urban areas and surrounding suburbs, the taking of cars by force has escalated to alarming proportions - occurring several times a day by hoodlums of all ages and gender.

Most carjackings are the work of young thugs with guns who generally strike at night, primarily in high crime areas or suburban shopping centers near highway. But many have occurred in broad daylight evidencing an unbridled brazenness on the part of the criminal element in the community. Here are some precautions to reduce your chances of being a victim of a carjacking:

Avoid parking in secluded, poorly lighted areas, especially late at night. This includes the periphery of some of our suburban shopping center parking lots.
Keep doors locked and windows rolled up while driving and especially when stopped at a traffic light or stop sign.
When approaching a red light or stop sign, leave space between your car and the vehicle in front of you so you can pull away quickly if necessary.
Try to avoid walking to your vehicle alone late at night. If you see someone you do not recognize loitering in the area of your car, walk away from the vehicle. If the loiterer remains near your car, call the police for assistance.
If someone demands your keys, do not resist! You can always replace your car; you cannot replace your life.
Separate your car keys from your residential and office keys to reduce the possibility that a burglary will follow a carjacking.
Do not leave your vehicle registration, driver's license or other documents in your car that list your office or home address (unless state regulation requires same).

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