Hotels are generally safe environments for travelers. But it’s still important to take precautions to protect your security and peace of mind while away from home. In this post, we’ll go over some handy safety tips to keep in mind when staying at a hotel.
Research the Hotel and Area
Do some homework on the hotel and neighborhood to scope out any safety concerns. Google the hotel name and read recent reviews to spot any red flags from past guests. Use TripAdvisor or travel forums to check the area’s safety reputation. This gives you an insight before booking.
Request a Higher Floor Room
When making reservations, ask for a room on one of the higher floors. Rooms on floors 2-4 are more vulnerable to break-ins. Opt for the 5th floor or above for better security. Also, avoid ground floor rooms with sliding glass doors that can be more easily accessed.
Don’t Answer the Door Without Checking
When there’s a knock at your hotel door, always check who it is before opening. Criminals can pose as hotel staff to gain access. Look through the peephole or ask, “Who is it?” If you’re unsure, call the front desk to verify before opening the door.
Use All Locks Provided
Make sure to engage all locks on your hotel room door for maximum security while inside. This includes the top door lock, security bar, and chain if provided. Activating every lock prevents someone from forcing their way into the room while you’re there.
Keep Your Room Key on You
Don’t leave your room key sitting unattended in public places around the hotel. Carry it with you everywhere you go. If you misplace a key card, report it to the front desk immediately, so they can deactivate it and issue a replacement. Never answer the door if someone claims to be staff without proper ID.
Don’t Draw Attention to Your Room
Avoid excessive “Do Not Disturb” signs or privacy tags on your door for days on end. This signals you aren’t coming and going much from your room. Use hotel safe deposit boxes rather than in-room safes for valuables. And don’t openly carry expensive electronics or jewelry in the halls.
Notify Hotel Staff of Any Concerns
If someone suspicious approaches you in the hotel or you feel unsafe, report it to staff. Likewise, alert them to burned out lights in hallways or parking areas that create vulnerability. Don’t wait for “someone else” to speak up. The more forthcoming guests are, the better staff can address risks.
By taking sensible precautions, you can relax and focus on enjoying your hotel stay instead of worrying about safety. Be alert without being paranoid. And don’t hesitate to speak up when your instincts tell you something’s not quite right. If you’re looking to book beautiful accommodations in a safe environment, check out hotel rooms in Ouray to see your options and pricing today.
