Introduction

The application of certain simple and sensible procedures can greatly enhance the personal security of the business traveller. In general, the risk to such travellers is from opportunist crime rather than premeditated terrorist or criminal attack. However, executives with a high business or personal profile may be targeted by a professional group working from information gathered about future movements of such personalities. This possibility should not be disregarded.

It is simple to state, but not always easy to practice, that personal security can be greatly enhanced by awareness and the maintenance of a low profile. Attention to these two basic principles can reduce the possibility of selection as a target or perhaps lead to the frustration of an attack.

The detailed points listed in the following paragraphs should assist in reducing the likelihood of a successful attack taking place:

When Travelling

Use inconspicuous luggage. Label with name but not address; place a contact address inside the luggage.

Avoid reading business papers whilst traveling, particularly those which are in any way sensitive or which reveal your future movements.

If possible, always be met at your destination by someone known to you.

Hotels: Security and Safety Precautions

When registering, do not give your home address or your exact title or position in your company.

Avoid ground floor rooms or those to which access is easily gained from outside.

If the hotel has more than one exit, make use of the alternatives to confuse observation.

Always

Keep your luggage in sight when checking into the hotel. DO NOT leave it unattended even for a minute.

Place all valuables in the hotel safe deposit box as soon as possible, preferably when you check in.

Close the door of your room when leaving, even if it is for a short period of time. Then try to open the door to check that is locked.

Keep the door locked while you are in your room.

Lock your luggage when not in use and place in a closet. If the luggage has a lock, ALWAYS use it.

Protect your room key. Be sure to give it DIRECTLY to the desk clerk when you leave the hotel: DO NOT simply leave it on the counter. Always return your key when checking out.

Notify the manager immediately of any unusual occurrences such as: persons Ioitering in the corridor, repeated phone calls from persons who do not identify themselves, knocking on your door by persons unknown to you, or finding no one at the door when you answer it.

Make sure, that if you are a smoker, that your cigarette, Cigar, or pipe is safely out before you go to bed.

Check your personal belongings when leaving public rooms, ie. breakfast room, dining room, coffee-shop and bar etc.

Never

Never allow persons into your room with unsolicited deliveries.

When socialising, do not reveal the name of your hotel or hotel room to strangers.

Never discuss specific plans for a day away, etc. in public.

Never carry hotel keys outside of your hotel.

During the Visit

Confirm your arrival at your destination with your office; check in with your staff at regular intervals.

Do not carry large sums of money in your wallet: carry just enough to satisfy an opportunity robber; keep the rest in a separate pocket.

Seek local advice on areas considered safe for walking; always avoid groups of people loitering in the street.

When traveling in taxis or cars, always lock the door and close the window.

Always carry with you the telephone number of the Police, your hotel, and the nearest Embassy, a street map; also carry the appropriate coins or tokens to operate public telephones.

Whenever possible, travel in pairs or more.