Safety Tips to Remember

Sometime when we're on vacation we get so caught up in the magic that we forget about safety. However, don't let the Mickey Mouse atmosphere allow you to let your guard down. Crime never takes a holiday, no matter where you go! Orlando is no different than any other major city in that respect.

The Florida sun can (and will) burn, even on days that are overcast. Always apply a sunscreen before going outdoors for extended periods, especially if you're fair skinned. There is a difference between suntan lotion and sunscreen! If you're unsure of the proper sun protection factor (SPF) to use check with your pharmacist.

Try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash in your backpack or fanny pack. Although we hate the thought of it, there is the possibility that someone could pick-pocket you while you're standing in line for your favorite attraction, waiting at the airport, or anywhere for that matter. 

Resort/Hotel

When you are in your resort/hotel room make sure your door and/or patio door is locked at all times. The same holds true when you leave your room, if even for a brief moment. It only takes a second to verify that the door is indeed locked. It's a good idea to use the safety chain for security reasons whenever you are in the room.

Never open your room door unless you know who's there! In the event someone knocks on your door always look through the "peephole" to see who it is first. If you didn't call for a hotel service offered by the person at the door call hotel security, or the front desk, to see if they sent someone to your room. In any case, if you're unsure about opening your door, ask to see an ID. 

Never leave valuables in plain site in your room. Most rooms now have built-in safety deposit boxes. Rather than hide your jewelry, money, credit cards, etc. in your drawers with your clothes place those items in the safety deposit box. If you have cameras or other expensive electronics that you're not taking with you for the day you can always lock them up in your luggage. Also, keep a close eye on your valuables when you're in a public place as well, especially at a restaurant, theater, or the airport. In most places you will have the option to rent a locker for a nominal fee. Renting a locker will win over leaving your valuables in the trunk of your car any time. The extreme heat of closed vehicles could damage any electronic equipment or film.

It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with fire and emergency exits for the hotel you are staying at. In most cases you'll find a floor plan map on the back of your room door.

If you're walking at night make it a point to go in groups, avoiding poorly lit areas at all costs. It's never a good idea to go out alone.

Driving In Central Florida

Title XXIII- Motor Vehicles - Chapter 316- State Uniform Traffic Control

316.613- Child restraint requirements--

(1) (a) Every operator of a motor vehicle as defined herein, while transporting a child in a motor vehicle operated on the roadways, streets, or highways of this state, shall, if the child is 5 years of age or younger, provide for protection of the child by properly using a crash-tested, federally approved child restraint device. For children aged through 3 years, such restraint device must be a separate carrier or a vehicle manufacturer's integrated child seat. For children aged 4 through 5 years, a separate carrier, an integrated child seat, or a seat belt may be used.

Passengers under the age of 18 must wear a seatbelt.

Whether it's your own car or you're using a rental all drivers must carry proof of personal injury (liability) protective insurance coverage. If you are using a rental it's a good idea to place all of the related paperwork in the glove compartment of your rental. That way, in the event a patrolman stops you, there wouldn't be the risk of discovering all of your papers are back at your resort room. This would be certain to make for a long delay in your day.

If your car has been sitting in the sun for a long period of time open all of the car doors to release the hot air trapped in the vehicle. Take extra caution when handling the seat belts. You or your child could experience a serious burn if the hot metal on the seat belt comes in contact with bare skin. This is no excuse, however, for not wearing your seat belt. Florida law requires front seat drivers and passengers to wear seat belts. Here's a listing of some additional Florida laws that are strictly enforced:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol will result in very stiff fines and possible jail time.

• It's against the law to leave animals unattended in a vehicle, even for just a few minutes. Animals are at severe risk when left alone in cars because of the high levels of sunshine in Florida.

• Child car safety seats are mandatory for children under 4 years of age or who weigh less than 40 pounds.

In Florida your car headlights must be turned on in the rain, day or night. If you're driving through a heavy rain it's sometimes a good idea to pull your car off the road, away from traffic, and put on your hazard lights. "Florida Ice" is a serious road condition where oil deposits on the road mix with water when it rains. The result is a very slippery road condition. Showers usually only last a few minutes, so when the rain lets up you can continue on your way.

If you're driving beyond the Disney property you should know where you are going and how to get there. Orlando area maps are available for purchase at most of the Disney resorts. However, in the event you missed a turn or exit please do not attempt to back up to your missed exit. In most cases if you take the next available exit it will give you the option to turn around. Have you ever seen cars stuck in the grassy areas of the highways in Florida? Be careful about making u-turns! The conditions of the soil may be deceptive. There may be ditches or sand traps that you are not aware of that could result in your car getting stuck.

In the event you're involved in an accident call the police as soon as possible. If the car is still drivable remove it from the road. This will prevent the chance of another accident happening. Don't worry about moving it. Law enforcement officers are experienced in re-enacting accident scenes with the information provided by all parties involved. But, if the accident is the result of being "bumped" by another car don't immediately jump out and check for damages. Observe the other driver and make yourself aware of the surrounding area. If you feel uncomfortable motion the other driver to follow you to a more public area, police department, or fire station. Remember accidents can happen to anyone. Try not to let your emotions take full control of the situation, use good judgment to make decisions. If your gut feeling indicates something is wrong look for help.

When you're not using your car always make sure it is locked. At night try to park in a lighted area if possible. Never leave your wallet, checkbook, purse, briefcase, etc. in your vehicle. If it's necessary for you to leave valuables in your car make sure they are out of site, locked in your trunk.

The most important thing to remember is if you are ever in a situation where someone wants your money, keys, car, etc. - GIVE IT TO THEM! You will only make the situation more difficult if you try to be a hero. Material things can always be replaced, you can't.

For some Florida tourist tidbits, click here.

Last Updated: May 9, 2009