A few years ago we took a trip to Zion National Park in the state of Utah. Awesome place, gorgeous state.

Every park ranger we ran into or led us on a tour told us, “your safety is your responsibility.”

Good advice…

When we go on road trips we usually stay at affordable hotels or motels. And my natural instinct is to stay vigilant and aware of my surroundings. 

I have friends who take it up a notch and carry a weapon or a gun if they can when they travel. Unfortunately, you can’t always carry a gun or weapon most places you travel to, even though “safety is your responsibility.”

On these road trips, I routinely remind my family to “Look behind you.” “Beware the dark corners.” “Use the buddy system.” “Lock the doors.” “Use full attack mode if something happens, and ask questions later.” 

I’d say I become redundant. Maybe, even a little annoying. 

When I get into this “zone” my family pokes fun at me or rolls their eyes after the 12th reminder.

I’m a silly guy, right?

Wrong.

  • Last year, celebrity Kim Kardashian got robbed in her posh Paris hotel room. The thugs made off with millions of dollars in jewelry. Luckily, she wasn’t hurt or worse.
  • Crime statistics in the U.S. show crime and violence at hotels has been increasing since the year 2000. This includes rape, robbery, sexual assault, and battery. 
  • A few years ago the Motel 6 hotel chain paid $10 million to a guest who was attacked and raped at one of their properties for “negligent security.” 
  • In today’s world, many women travel alone for business or pleasure. And most violent crime is unfortunately aimed at them.

“Your safety is your responsibility.” So what can you do?

Here are a few suggestions: 

  • Choose to stay at hotels with attentive security. That includes guards, cameras, automatic locking doors, and good lighting.
  • Avoid traveling alone.
  • Stay vigilant.
  • Look behind you. 
  • Beware the dark corners.
  • Use the buddy system. 
  • Lock the doors. 
  • Don’t open the door to strangers, even if they say they work for the hotel. Confirm and get proof by calling the front desk.
  • Don’t stay at hotels or motels with sketchy people as guests or vagrants hanging out nearby or in the parking lot.
  • Use full attack mode if something happens, and ask questions later.

Full attack mode?

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Seek the straightest path,

Rob