Now that you have followed all the suggestions last week for securing your home while you’re away, it’s time to think about your safety while you are sightseeing or traveling.

Remember, do not carry large sums of money. Travelers’ checks or credit cards are much safer, as well as personal checks. If you use traveler’s checks, be sure to record the numbers separately.

Try not to leave your vehicle unattended while in a service station, and watch the attendant while your car is being serviced. Always get a written estimate if your car needs any special repairs. Be sure to challenge any additional cost if it exceeds the original estimate.

While you are driving, be sure to stay on well-lighted streets and park in illuminated areas at night. Park near other cars, if possible, not trucks or vans. They may provide a buffer against detection of a criminal. Remember never to leave the original title or "pink slip" in the car. Leave the original in your safe deposit box and make a copy for your car.

While in a motel or hotel, place all valuables in the office safe. Never leave jewelry, extra keys, money, or credit cards in your room. Hopefully, you have recorded by video tape or camera all the valuable items you have brought, such as pagers, cameras, radios, cell phones, laptops, etc. with their serial numbers. If they are stolen, this information will help the police.

You should keep your drapes drawn in your room, so no one can see you or your belongings. When you leave your room, display the "Do Not Disturb" sign on your door. Don’t rely on a chain lock; always use a deadbolt. And remember to report any suspicious activity to the management, just like you’d do at home to the police or your block captain.

When you are sightseeing, ask the hotel management or concierge for directions to the attractions you want to visit. And, of course, the best restaurants! Also ask if there are any areas in town you should avoid.

Don’t advertise that you are a tourist. Place maps and travel brochures out of sight. Of course, anything valuable, including packages, should be in your locked trunk. Enjoy your stay.

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REMINDER: I think we have learned from past national elections how important it is to vote and to take part in community decisions. Rancho Bernardo needs residents who are interested in serving their community to join the Community Council, the Planning Board and/or the Recreation Council.

Applications are being accepted now through January 31; elections are March 6, 2004 . Residents from all seven districts are being sought. Applications are now at the library and all community centers. Mail to: RB Elections Committee, 15721 Bernardo Heights Parkway, Suite B-230, San Diego 92128.