JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The holiday season is in full force and naturally our minds are focused on everything from family and work, to what present to get the new guy in your office you got stuck with for Secret Santa. It's understandable that we sometimes just want to go on mental cruise control and rely on the same routines day in and day out to help get us through these next few weeks. But more than ever, these next few weeks are a time for us all to remain vigilant and alert to ensure we stay safe and sound.
Travel is a huge part of the holiday season and whether you are staying close to home, going on a warm weather vacation, or just trying to survive a weekend at the in-laws, it's crucial to take some small steps to help keep you and your family out of harm's way. Here are some helpful tips courtesy of the Joint Base Andrews Antiterrorism office to keep in mind when travelling:
Bring a sufficient supply of required medication. Carry a copy of the prescription, and know the generic name.
Do not use rank or position to make reservations.
Always pack your own bags. Do not accept packages or items for packing with your own luggage.
Watch and control your luggage at all times.
Make copies of all important documents (passports/ID cards, leave, TDY and/or border crossing documents) and place them in different pieces of luggage in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Wear conservative civilian clothing that does not make you stand out as a U.S. citizen; no expensive jewelry or briefcases.
If travelling outside of the U.S., carry the address and phone numbers of U.S. military facilities, Consulates and Embassies in the area.
Immediately notify security of unattended luggage or packages in halls.
Use peepholes and security chains when answering doors.
As the world has learned in recent years, terrorist attacks can happen anywhere, at any time. We must all be prepared, whether it is changing up our routines in our day to day lives, to putting to use the tips mentioned above while travelling.
Applying these safety practices will go a long way to ensure you and your loved ones enjoy a happy and safe holiday season, but they aren't going to help you get through your time with your mother-in-law. Sorry to say, but you're on your own on that one.