Fire Safety 9789380075518

Citation preview

First Edition, 2009

ISBN 978 93 80075 51 8

© All rights reserved.

Published by: Global Media 1819, Bhagirath Palace, Chandni Chowk, Delhi-110 006 Email: [email protected]

Table of Contents 1. Fire Safety 2. Preventing Accidents 3. Safety Management 4. Security Management 5. Family Security 6. Hotel Security 7. Security as a Guest Amenity 8. Safe Storing

Fire Safety • Smoke only in designated areas. • Report any fire immediately. • Know where the fire extinguishers are located and how each should be used. • Know the fire exits. • Follow the fire instructions. • Have fire doors, exits, staircases clear of equipment. • Don’t let grease accumulate on grill canopies and filters. • Point out the location of switches to shut off electricity supply.

Safe Handling of Food Preparation Equipment • Use only dry cloth, towels to handle hot cooking utensils. • Lift edge over cover on side of pot away from you first, so that steam does not blast into your face. • Don’t peak into open steam kettles. • Keep handles of pans away from the stove and out of the sisle so that they won’t be brushed off. • Get help in moving hot, heavy containers. • Keep oven doors closed and out of aisle, when not in use • Ventilate a gas oven several minutes before lighting. Strike matches away from clothing. Open gas gradually, • Don’t clean ovens and stoves before they are cool • Protect food from foreign substances, • Avoid overfilling containers with hot liquids or foods. • Warn service people of hot dishes.

Safe Handling of Machines • Ensure that machines are kept in good working order and are operated correctly. • Never use any machines you have not been trained to use. • Be sure that all safety devices are in place before use, • Put plug into “off” position before cleaning or adjusting the machine. • Check all switches. • Don’t start a mixing machine until the bowl or the kettle is locked. • Always use the proper tool for pushing food into the grinder. • Particular care must be exercised in cleaning the slicing machine. • Pull the plug, turn the gauge to zero, don’t touch the edge of the cutting blade clean the blade from the centre outwhile cleaning hold a protective cloth in the other hand to use in rotating the blade.

Safe Handling of Dishes • Take care in handling dishes and glasses, • Sweep up large pieces of broken glass with broom; use dampened paper towel to pick up slivers. • Put broken glass or china in a special container. • Chipped or cracked glassware should be discarded, • If you suspect broken glass in soapy water, drain water first. • Don’t use cups to hold desinfectants and solvents.

Safe Handling of Knives • Use knives correctly and store them correctly. • Cut away from your body, and away from fellow workers. • When drying a knife, keep sharp edge away from your body. • Use cutting boards- never a knife edge against metal. • Keep all knives in proper storage place when not in use. • Don’t leave knives anywhere where they can’t be seen (sink) • A sharp knife is safer than a dull one. • Sharpen knives properly. Remove any additional steel burns. • Never reach for a falling knife.

HANDLING OF INSECTICIDES AND PESTICIDES Because of the dangers involved, safety precautions for the use, storage, and disposal of pesticides and other hazardous materials are listed below. They should be carefully observed: 1. Use a selective chemical that has the least effect on non-target species. 2. Treat only the area affected. 3. Take care to avoid the contamination of food and drinking-water (for animals as well as man), streams and lakes and inhabited areas. 4. Time the treatments to coincide with the presence of the pests. 5. Use the most suitable chemicals and the minimum amounts needed to achieve the desired result. 6. Store chemicals in properly labelled containers out of reach of children and animals and away from food. Supplies should be kept in a separate locked building away from housing areas, food, animals feed, water supplies. children, and irresponsible persons and above the highest possible flood level. Do not transport chemicals in vehicles used for carrying people, food, animals or animal feed. 7. Follow the directions on the label exactly in preparing chemicals, and use the proper equipment when applying them. 8. Avoid inhalation of dusts and fumes and contacts with the skin, personnel should wear protective clothing and headgear, and change their clothing and wash thoroughlv with soap and water after applying pesticides. 9. Work in well ventilated areas. In confined areas wear an approved type of respirator. Wear a respirator for outdoor spraying or dusting organic phosphorous compounds. 10. Do not spray on a windy day. Protect guests from accidental poisoning by pesticides. 11. Dispose of used or leaking pesticide containers immediately by burial to a depth of at lest 45 cm (18 in) in an isolated marked area, downhill and at least 60 m (200 ft.) from any water source and 1-2 m above the highest groundwater level. Do not bury containers in sandy soil. 12. Never transfer pesticides to unlabelled or rnislabelled containers. Keep in clearly labelled containers. 13. Pesticides are toxic and hazardous; use with extreme caution. Security in hotel business covers many things and depending upon the social, political and other considerations the mode of

security in hotels has to adopt appropriate methods. There are two major aspects of security. One for the protection of the guest. Second is to protect the hotel premises and its properties and records, Eor guest protection following major points should be taken care of: 1. Responsibility begins at the time of registration. Once the guest is registered, the hotel necessarily is concerned with the protection. The hotel’s staff simultaneously needs to realise that it also must be concerned with protection. 2. The issue of guest security, including the guest’s property, is one of the most difficult and delicate problem confronting hoteliers throughout the world. The difficulty largely is due to the fact that most incidents would have been avoided, if the guests themselves were not so careless. The delicacy of the matter revolves around the question of how one educates guests on the subject of self protection without frightening them to the point where they avoid a particular property altogether. Tent cards mention the availability of safe deposit oxes. Most guests ignore them. The answer to the question of guest education seems to lie with a combination of both verbal and written suggestions. For example, at registration time front desk personnel should ask specifically if guests would like to avail themselves of the safe-deposit-boxes. A written message would urge them (tent card in the guest room) not to leave valuables lying in drawers or on table tops, but rather to secure them. 3. An overwhelming majority of front desk personnels will make keys available upon request, and without question, In most cases one need merely to walk to the desk to ask, may I have the key 926? Rarely will that person be asked for a name to check against the information rack and to verify registration before the key is handed over. 4. A far more subtle, but not less important consideration involves control over information regarding the rooms to which guests have been assigned. The ease with which room assignment data can be obtained frequently has been used to advantage by persons intent upon every form of mischief ranging from bombings, robberies and assaults to celebrities. Concerned hoteliers should instruct both, switch board and front desk personnel that room assignments are not given out upon inquiry. All telephone calls for guests simply need to be put through to them, and messages can be taken in their absence. Such steps are designed to help protect guests and their property However, for optimum effect other security factors such as patrols, employees training must be considered Security of guests’ automobiles must also be considered (including contents). Two important deterrents are adequate lighting, and a patrol force that makes regular, frequent area inspections. For hotels, own security consideration should be securing the perimeter i.e. perimeter security.

Preventing accidents in the HORECA sector Employers have a legal and moral duty to maintain a safe and healthy workplace. There are also financial incentives: losing a valued worker to injury can be bad for business, but it also costs money to recruit and train a replacement.

High economic losses after accident in peak season The chef in a restaurant with a €200,000 annual turnover slipped on damaged flooring in peak season. There were no other chefs available to provide immediate cover resulting in a loss of €11830. Most accidents can be prevented by good management and supervision combined with effective training. Accident prevention is an integral part of running a successful enterprise. Employers can prevent most workplace injuries and illnesses if they identify and then eliminate, or at least minimise, workplace hazards. How do I keep safe? 1. slips, trips and falls 2. cutting equipment and knives 3. burns and scalds 4. manual handling and musculoskeletal disorders 5. noise 6. dangerous substances 7. pressurised gas used in drinks dispensing 8. working in hot environments 9. fire hazards 10. psychosocial hazards

Legislation Workers are protected by Directive 89/391/EU (framework directive). The directive's basic principle is risk prevention. It requires employers to carry out risk assessments and also imposes a general duty on them to ensure the health and safety of their employees at work. The framework directive is supplemented by individual directives; for example, the European Working Time Directive, the Workplace Directive 89/654/EC and the Noise Directive 2003/10/EC.

Slips, trips and falls

Slips, trips and falls are the most common cause of accidents in the HORECA sector, especially in kitchens. They are mainly caused by surfaces made slippery by water, food waste or oil. Wearing the wrong footwear compounds the danger. Walking too fast or running, distractions and a failure to use handrails on stairways also increase risk. What can be done? • • • • • • •

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Assess the risk from the specific situation and implement a plan to eliminate or reduce and inform personnel Carry out proper housekeeping in work and walking areas and keep these areas free of obstacles. Use appropriate footwear. Ensure lighting is adequate. Close oven, dishwasher and cupboard doors. Walk – do not run. Ladders should be long enough for the task, and the lower and the upper ends of the side rails should be equipped with slip-resistant pads. Never use inappropriate substitutes for a ladder such as chairs, boxes or barrels. Stairwells should be well lit and fitted with sturdy handrails. Use non-slip mats. Provide safety signs to remind people of hazards. Pay attention to out-of-sight areas such as freezers, cool and storage rooms, loading docks and the area behind bars.

A 16-year-old girl was employed at a fast-food outlet to cook fries at a frying range. She slipped on water leaking from an ice-making machine and instinctively put out her hand to break her fall. Unfortunately her hand went into the deep fat fryer containing oil at a temperature of 360°F and she sustained severe burns to her left hand and forearm.

Cutting equipment and knives

Slicers, mincers, mixers and knives are widely used in professional kitchens. Most injuries in the kitchen are cuts, either from using the implements or cleaning them. What can be done? • •

Assess the risk from the specific situation and implement a plan to eliminate or reduce and inform personnel Knives should be sharp and maintained in a good working condition. Wash them separately.

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Use the appropriate knife for the task. Use a suitable non-slip cutting board. Knives should be stored in a knife-block, on a suitable knife shelf or on a magnetic strip mounted on the wall. Train workers in the safe use of machinery. Ensure that all machines have guards attached and that all workers use these when operating the equipment. On slicing machines, thumb guards and last slice devices must be provided. Off-buttons must be easily accessible.

Burns and scalds

What can be done? • • • • • • •

Assess the risk from the specific situation and implement a plan to eliminate or reduce and inform personnel Use a tray or trolley to serve hot liquids, plates or utensils. Warn service staff and customers about hot plates. Install windows in the kitchen door to guarantee a safe passage for service staff. Train workers in good techniques for handling hot items such as opening pot lids away from the body. Keep saucepan or pot handles pointing away from the edge of the stove. Pick up hot items with dry cloths.

Hot oil is a significant hazard for workers who use deep fat fryers. Workers can be badly burned if the oil or grease is not allowed to cool before handling, or if they do not use the right equipment.

What can be done to use deep fat fryers safely? • • • •

Use automatic food lowering devices. Allow hot oil and grease to cool overnight before disposing. Ensure that containers are large enough and can withstand high temperatures. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

Manual handling and musculoskeletal injuries Many activities in the sector involve manual handling: lifting full pots and pans and dishwasher trays, carrying piles of plates, bending into deep fat fryers to clean them and

vacuuming. Injuries may happen as a result of only one serious incident, but more often they are a result of stress and strain over a long period. Lifting and carrying heavy items is a major cause of back pain, while forceful or repetitive activities and poor posture are linked to upper limb injuries.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) arising from manual handling injuries and repetitive work are widespread in the HORECA sector. MSDs are work-related impairments of bodily structures such as muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Most workrelated MSDs are cumulative disorders, resulting from repeated exposure to high or low intensity loads over a long period of time. However, MSDs can also be acute traumas, such as fractures, that occur during an accident. These disorders mainly affect the back, neck, shoulders and upper limbs, but can also affect the lower limbs.

HORECA workers may have a higher risk of developing MSDs because their job often involves prolonged standing and working in awkward postures. Much of their work is physically demanding, stressful and involves long working hours. Finally, many seasonal and young workers are employed who either do not have time to adapt to the job or who are not work hardened.

What can be done? • • •

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Assess all working areas to identify MSDs risks and in particular to determine if lifting and carrying can be prevented. Use mechanical aids wherever possible such as four-wheel-trolleys or sack trucks. Make sure to adjust the design of the workplace in agreement with the employee and make sure that the employees get instructions in how to use the mechanical aids When lifting or carrying, keep the load as close to your body as possible. Purchase lighter loads and smaller quantities from suppliers. Stock shelves safely.

Noise Noisy cooking processes, beeping signals, dishwashers, plant, ventilation, coffee grinders, housekeeping activities, laundry, music in bars and, of course, the chatter of colleagues or guests are all part of the job in the HORECA sector. You may have a noise problem in your workplace if you have to raise your voice to talk to someone standing close by. Repeated exposure over long periods may affect hearing.

What can be done? • • •

Assess the risk from the specific situation and implement a plan to eliminate or reduce and inform personnel Remove hazardous noise from the workplace. Wear appropriate ear protection.

Dangerous substances Dangerous substances can cause injury or illness if people come into contact with them or do not use them properly. In the HORECA sector, many substances pose a serious risk to the employees, including washing-up liquids, dishwasher detergents and rinse aids, drain cleaning products, oven cleaners, disinfectants, toilet cleaners, bleach, sanitisers and descalers. The most common risks are contact with the skin or eyes, and breathing in or swallowing. Many cleaning chemicals are hazardous because they are corrosive and can cause skin and eye burns if splashed onto the body. Without proper controls, some may cause dermatitis (dry, sore, flaky skin) or other skin irritations, asthma and breathing problems. Other causes of dermatitis include contact with foods: juices from fruit and vegetables; proteins in fish, shellfish, meat and flour. Another source of irritants or harmful substances is the emission of cooking fumes and second hand smoke.

What can be done? • •

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Assess the risk from the specific situation and implement a plan to eliminate or reduce and inform personnel Cleaning agents should be kept only in containers whose form or designation makes it clear that the contents cannot be mistaken for food. Containers in which the cleaning agents are stored must be marked in such a way that the risk can be recognised by all users. While using dangerous cleaning agents, protective equipment must be worn. Personal protection equipment should include protective masks or safety glasses, possibly inhalation protection, protective gloves, rubber apron and safety boots. Operating instructions must be provided that define the hazards for humans and the environment for those dangerous cleaning agents, as well as the necessary preventive measures and behaviour rules. The most effective way to protect workers from second-hand smoke is to have smoke-free areas. If this is not possible, good ventilation systems can help.

Pressurised gas used in drinks dispensing

In the HORECA sector, pressurised gas to dispense drinks is widely used. These installations include pressurised gas bottles with pipe work, as well as control and mixing equipment. In many restaurants and pubs, the gas installation and pressured gas bottles are located in poorly ventilated cellars. Nitrogen, carbon dioxide and, under specific circumstances, compressed air are used as dispensing gases. Carbon dioxide, which is an odourless, colourless gas that displaces oxygen, is the most commonly used. Depending on the concentration of the gas and length of the exposure, workers may suffer from headaches, sweating, rapid breathing, increased heart beat, shortness of breath, dizziness, mental depression, visual disturbances and shaking. In higher concentrations, oxygen is displaced leading to a deficiency of oxygen. This can lead to impaired judgement, unconsciousness and even death.

Handling carbon dioxide — tragic consequences A wedding was celebrated in a pavilion at a local sport club. After the employer failed to return from changing a carbon dioxide (CO2) gas bottle, the waitress found him unconscious in the cellar. Two guests, who were asked for help, went into the cellar and lost consciousness too. Two other guests, who tried to enter the cellar through a second door, got out just in time. The tragic outcome: three persons died and two were seriously injured.

What can be done? •

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Know the hazards and carry out a risk assessment covering all persons entering or working in the cellars. The employer should make staff aware of the specific risks associated with dispense gas. Install new carbon dioxide receptacles at ground level in an open area. Where possible, relocate existing fill stations above ground level. Wherever a significant leak of dispensable gas can occur, provide adequate ventilation to keep the atmosphere safe and install a gas monitoring system with a warning alarm. This system should work continuously and be designed to warn a person with an audible or visible alarm before entering the danger area. Place appropriate warning signs outside areas where high concentrations of the gas can accumulate. Provide proper lighting. Access to confined spaces should be restricted to designated personnel only. Employees who operate the dispense gas installation should be trained to follow the suppliers’ instructions. Provide emergency arrangements and train workers in these procedures. Deliveries should be arranged in a way that keeps the number and the size of pressurised gas bottles to a minimum.

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Inspect and maintain all piping tubing, hoses and fittings at regular intervals and maintain the system in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions. An annual inspection should be carried out by a professional contractor.

Working in hot environments HORECA workers are at risk of heat stress when unloading supplies, working in kitchens and while serving customers. In kitchens, cooking makes the environment hot and humid; in the summer conditions can get even worse. Excessive exposure to a hot working environment can cause a variety of disorders. Heat rashes and fainting are the first symptoms that indicate heat strain. If heat stress is not treated in the early stages, it can have serious effects on the body, leading to heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps. What can be done? • •

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Assess the risk from the specific situation and implement a plan to eliminate or reduce and inform personnel Install general ventilation. Air conditioning or local air-cooling may be helpful. In professional kitchens displacement ventilation is the most effective way to reduce temperatures and cooking fumes containing dangerous substances. Use induction cooking, which cooks with a ‘cold heat’ using magnetic fields. There is no open flame. Reduce humidity by using air conditioning and dehumidifiers, and by diminishing the sources of moisture; for example, open water baths, drains, and leaky steam valves. Acclimatisation can reduce heat strain. Allow rest periods in cooler areas to alleviate heat stress. Physical demands in hot working environments should be reduced to avoid unnecessary manual handling. Provide a supply of cool drinking water close to the work area so workers can replace fluids. Wear personal protective equipment. Cool, comfortable, breathable clothing such as cotton should be provided to allow free air movement and sweat to evaporate. Educate employees on the hazards of working in heat and the benefits of implementing proper controls and work practices.

Fire hazards

There is a significant risk of fire in the HORECA sector, particularly in kitchens where gas, naked flames, hot oils and flammable substances are present.

What can be done? • • • • • • • •

Assess the risk from the specific situation and implement a plan to eliminate or reduce and inform personnel Keep electric equipment in good condition and check it regularly. Fit deep fat fryers with thermostats to prevent overheating. Clean grease taps, extract hoods and filters. Mark fire escapes and exits, and keep them clear of obstruction. Provide and check fire extinguishers. Install automatic fire detection and sprinkler systems. Ensure employees participate in fire safety training.

Psychosocial hazards Psychosocial risk factors are linked to the way work is organised and to the mental demands of that work. Conflicting demands, lack of control over work and lack of support from colleagues or supervisors are all significant risk factors. Long working hours, often at night and over the weekend, put strain on HORECA workers. Contact with difficult customers can lead to stress and even harassment or violence.

Unsocial working in the HORECA sector • • • • • •

47.5% workers have a working day of 10 hours or more at least once a month. Employees work an average of 43.4 hours a week. 71% work in the evening between 6.00 pm and 10.00 pm. 45% work at night between 10.00 pm and 5.00 am. 83% work on Saturdays and 69% on Sundays. 36% say their working hours do not fit in well with their family or social commitments.

Source: the European Survey on Working Conditions, 2000 and 2002.

What can be done? • • • • •

Assess the risks to safety and health within the workplace and then, where necessary, improve standards. Reduce long and irregular working hours. Introduce flexible working and childcare to improve workers’ work-life balance. Reduce high workloads by redesigning jobs. Involve workers in decision-making.

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Improve safety for workers who have contact with customers, and train them on how to deal with difficult, aggressive customers.

Hotel Security: The Evolving Electronic Lock Hotel technology is often divided into three categories; technology for the guest, technology used internally, and technology that bolsters hotel relationships with the high tech world. Perhaps more than any other hotel industry supplier, electronic door lock manufacturers have demonstrated a commitment to each of these areas of product development. The evolution of the electronic door locking industry began with guest security, and expanded to increase operational efficiencies available to property management through access control and system integration. The industry now stands poised to enter the new millenium as a major technology provider, positioning hotels as key players in an era of increased electronic commerce. Few inventions have had such widespread and practical appeal to the hospitality industry. Since the introduction of the recodable electronic door lock in the late 1970's, hotel security has been virtually transformed. The focus at the time of inception was increased guest security, but the benefit to the property was quickly realized. Hotel security experts, along with media pundits, the courts, and the insurance industry all agree - keycard locks, which can be easily changed so that every guest gets a new key, are the best way to boost security. In fact, there is speculation that by the end of this decade, hotels that do not feature electronic locking mechanisms in guestrooms will be unable to obtain insurance. Even the simplest of key card locks have been found to reduce break ins by up to 80%, reminding us that effective guestroom security is an essential part of the hospitality package. Employee access control was one of the first system enhancements to increase the level of internal technology. In order for a property to be maintained efficiently, hotel personnel require their own means of entry to rooms in which they must perform daily routines or tasks. In the past, distribution of conventional keys to housekeepers, room service attendants, and maintenance personnel compromised guest belongings and increased the liability of the hotel. In some instances of theft, the victim was often the hotel (where even the negligent customer is king), and claims went unchallenged. The "burden of proof" is welcome by a hotel equipped with modern electronic locks, for the actual lock serves as a log, monitoring and recording up to 1,000 entries (about

100 days worth). Many reputations have been restored and many a thankful employee has been cleared of suspicion due to the success of these products. Employee key cards can be coded to allow access only to their assigned units of responsibility and only during the hours of their shift. Knowledge of these system capabilities may also serve as a deterrent to those less ethical. At ILCO UNICAN, true on-line security systems are giving hotel operators even greater peace of mind. Tom Caudill, VP of Sales and Marketing Worldwide for Lodging Products, describes the additional safety features of a monitoring system providing the status of every lock in the hotel. Information conveyed by this system can be used to determine the occupancy of a room, which can be communicated with energy management systems. Doors left ajar transmit an alarm, and a courtesy call ensues. Master keys can be disengaged instantly from the main console, without having to delete the sequence from each lock, (a tedious task deplored by the Director of Security). So how, you wonder, will the electronic door locking industry propel ours into the high tech global arena and a world of increased network usage? The answer lies in smart card technology. "Smart card" is a generic term for a card the size and thickness of a credit or debit card embedded with a microprocessor chip. The chip itself has intelligence and computational power similar to that of early personal computers. These powerful processing capabilities make smart cards much more secure than other types of cards presently in use. They can handle encryption techniques that protect the information stored on the cards. Think of a smart card as a very small personal computer belonging only to you. Because it's small enough to fit in your wallet, it's portable. And like a personal computer, it can be programmed to serve many different purposes and do many different things. Smart cards are currently being used to secure financial transactions, as stored value cards, for insurance identification, to store medical information and to personalize cellular phone communication from anywhere in the world. The beauty of the smart card is that it can offer all of these applications with considerable information storage capacity and security. Phil Wilder, Director of Marketing for San Diego-based Computerized Security Systems, believes that the value added by smart card technology offers the hotel operator "a revolutionary new way of marketing and merchandising to the guest". In a world moving towards one-to-one marketing, smart cards hold the capability to customize and better serve individual needs. The smart card can carry information that is only yours, such as travel preferences and loyalty program account information. Programs and incentives are easily tailored to guests based on their own usage patterns of hotel services. Smart cards can also provide more privacy and security in accessing payments and information services, because the microprocessor chip that holds the information cannot be

easily duplicated. In July of 1998, Hilton Hotels International announced that the Hilton New York & Towers, the largest hotel in New York City, would become the first hotel in the nation to install a locking system fully integrated with true smart card capacity. There are an estimated 6,000 travelers who already carry credit cards with smart card technology. Holders of the American Express™ Corporate Card, Hilton Optima™ Card and Hilton HHonors™ Worldwide Diamond VIP member cards will be able to present these cards upon check in to be coded as their room access keys. With time, it is anticipated that these same cards will be used at check-in kiosks located in hotel lobbies or airport terminals, expediting the check- in process. Network and personal computer usage is one of the major applications driving smart cards, along with PCs, Internet access, security and financial applications. As more people utilize electronic commerce (shopping over the Internet), more secure methods of electronic payment will be demanded from these consumers. Self-proclaimed "futurist" Steve Hovanitz, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Vingcard, envisions the following scenario made possible by smart card technology. A business traveler uses his personal computer, with smart card reader, to buy an airline ticket and reserve a hotel room. Information transmitted through the Internet includes his frequent flyer number, as well as his credit card information to secure payment. Accommodation preference and loyalty program account information is also communicated electronically to the hotel booking service. Confirmation information is written to the smart card, and upon arrival at the airport, the card is used to obtain a boarding pass from an automated system. At his destination, the traveler proceeds to the hotel check-in kiosk, located perhaps within the airport. Smart card is inserted to retrieve room assignment, secure payment, maybe even reward the loyal guest with a beverage value credited to his card. The same card is encoded with the room access information, and the card further serves as the key, allowing the guest to bypass the front desk entirely. Smart card applications heighten internal operational technology as well. Let's revisit employee access systems with Paul Zimmerman, Technical Director for North America at TimeLox. The world's largest hotel development to date, The Venetian (where else but Las Vegas), has just selected TimeLox to fit 6,000+ guestrooms and employee areas with the company's DC-One System. The employee key card, traditionally identifies and controls access for authorized personnel; with smart card technology, the card becomes a walking production database. Reports generated from a maintenance engineer's smart card help verify work order fulfillment, by indicating whether or not a service call was placed to a specific room.

Before the travel and tourism industry can see the full benefit of smart card technology, standards must be defined and upheld by the banking and software industries. It is important to observe that smart card technology may never take hold of our population, as it has in many European countries. Tom Caudill, (ILCO UNICAN) reminds us that the proliferation of smart card technology elsewhere is a result of less sophisticated information infrastructures. Information must be carried individually, because centralized data access and storage is not as reliable or efficient in other countries. The hospitality industry has historically been on the lagging edge of technology. From a service perspective, there has been a reluctance to embrace technology that makes any guest transaction less personal. Economically, the cost of keeping up with technology has often outweighed the benefits for an industry that relies so much on its human elements. The electronic locking industry is helping us transition, by incorporating new and exciting technology into an amenity that hotels cannot be without. Electronic door lock makers are preparing for society's acceptance and increased reliance upon a technological prophesy that has yet to be fulfilled. However, proponents insist that the value added for consumers of these systems, is product readiness in a quickly changing world obsessed with convenience and security.

Fire Safety Tips

In January 2008 there were fires at two casino hotels within days of each other on opposite sides of the country. The fact that nobody was hurt in either incident is a strong testament to the modern safety measures installed in the new buildings, but it is also reminder that no structure is completely fire proof. The last thing you want to do is to gamble with your safety when you go on vacation. Here are some simple tips that can increase your chances of staying safe or may even save your life in the event of a fire at your hotel. Pack a Light You should pack a small flashlight in your suitcase before you leave for your trip. I leave one in the outer compartment of my suitcase and have made a habit of checking the batteries when I pack for my trip. A small light that you can reach quickly can also be kept in a purse or on a key chain. In the event of a fire there may not be any light in the hallway outside of your room due to smoke or a power failure. Since smoke rises you may not see the exit signs that are placed higher up in the hallways. Having your own light can help guide you to safety. Know the Locations of Exits Most hotels post a chart on the inside of the door showing the emergency exits and stairwells. After you check into your room look at the chart to find two routes out. In the event of a fire

one of them may be blocked and you want to have a secondary escape route. Then go back out in the hallway and walk the routes counting the number of doors along the way. In the event of a fire you may not be able to see and knowing how many door you have to pass can guide you to the exit. Take the Fire Alarm Seriously Most of us have become cynical when we hear an alarm. If we hear an alarm in a hotel our first thoughts usually that it is a false alarm. Assuming this could cost you your life. If you hear an alarm you should heed it and immediately leave to get to safety. Don’t take time to pack. The only thing you should take with you is your room key in case you have to return to your room because the exits are blocked. Check the Door Before leaving your room you should feel the door and the door knob for heat. Use the back of your hand to do this. If they are warm it means that there may be fire in the hallway and you should not open the door. If they are cool, open the door slowly and then head for the stairway. Do not take the elevator because if the power goes out you could be trapped. Stay Low Smoke is the number one killer in a fire so you must do your best to avoid it. Smoke and heat rise forcing the oxygen down to the floor. Stay low to the ground if there smoke in the hallway. You should also keep close to the wall to stay out of the way of panicking guest who may be running to the exits. Going Back to Your Room If the smoke is too dense at floor level in the corridor or if the emergency stairwell is filled with smoke you should not attempt to go through it. Stairwells are supposed to be constructed to keep smoke and fire out but if there is damage to the structure, they can act as chimneys funneling smoke to the top of the building. You will be safer returning to your room than attempting to go through the smoke. Trapped in Your Room If you are unable to leave or have to go back to your room the first thing you should do is to try and alert someone that you are trapped. Try the house phone and see if it is working. If someone answers give them your room number and tell them you are trapped. Even if you are able to reach someone on the houses phone, you should also call 911 and let them know your location. If your room phone does not work try your cell phone. If smoke is coming into your room you should wet towels and place them around the doors and vents. If the smoke is heavy you may want to do this first before you attempt to call for help. This is a decision that you will have to make. Don’t Break the Windows You should never break the windows in your room. Fire needs oxygen to survive and it will be drawn to the air from the broken window. Stay Calm In the event of an emergency you need to stay calm and try not to panic. Knowing these tips and planning for an emergency ahead of time will help you keep a clear head.

Safety Hotels have moral and legal responsibility of safety and security of the guests as well as people working in the hotel to protect the name of the hotel. In hotels and places where tourists stay, eat and have entertainment need to have a reasonably safe and secured atmosphere. People do not like to suffer while on recreation or on visit to places away from home and in unfamiliar surroundings SAFETY MANAGEMENT Safety consideration is very vital not only for the guests but for the welfare of the hotel staff also. The safe atmosphere free from possible accidental hazards not only provides peace of mind but also assures the operators not to worry about possible claims and compensations in lieu of damages to lives and properties of the guests. Some major safety precautions applicable to hotel business in particular are discussed on the following heads: Safe clothing Safe storing Safe floors Safe doors and drawers Safety with containers Fire safety Safe handling of food preparation equipment Safe handling of machines Safe handling of dishes Safe handling of knives Safe handling of insecticides and pesticides. “Prevention is better than cure” and the person in charge of a kitchen should foresee the possible causes of accident and eliminate them. Safety-instructions should be pasted and the attention of the kitchen staff directed to them. The phrase “accidents are costly” is true, if you think of the pain the suffering, permanent injuries or even death they can cause. Accidents are caused by not knowing the ight way to do things, or by deliberately or thoughtlessly doing things the wrong way. Most accidents are caused because of excessive haste. Conditions within the work environment affect the safety of staff. A happy working environment which creates among staff an interest, satisfaction and contentment with work contributes much, not only to improved job performance, but also to a reduced accident rate. Alcohol and drugs have serious effect upon the safety of the worker. A serious view should be taken of staff who misbehave or who are involved in general horseplay, within the kitchen such action may lead to serious accidents. Safety Precautions Safety rules should cover personnel, equipment and premises from the following aspects: Safe Clothing • Ensure the protective clothing is worn; • Safe shoes with closed toes; • Sensible heels provide balance; • Do not wear loose clothing, you may easily get caught

Security Management (a) Perimeter Security Entrances The best way to provide this type of perimeter protection is to lock the door. Either using a key, also involving a person, or an electro-mechanical lock, controlled and activated at the front desk. The outside should be well illuminated. • This would be for the main door. One of the first things to be considered by management is the period, if any, during which the main entrance can be secured. • Two or possibly three other entrances still require attention in so far as perimeter protection is concerned. ƒ The receiving Entrance ƒ Employees’ Entrance ƒ Entrances from an outdoor swimming pool or car park. • The Receiving Door should be heavy duty steel or aluminum, overhead or side coiling type, approved as a fire door. A window-type vision panel and pass door may be included. The Receiving door should be opened only when necessary, preferably during predetermined hours. • The Employees’ Entrance: If it is possible to secure the main entrance during certain prescribed hours, it is equally possible to close the employees’ entrance. The periods will be determined by the time of shift changes. This should also be a fire door with steel frame, easily observed by the time-keeper/security guard. • Other Doors: If there is a door the sole purpose of which is to provide direct access between a swimming pool and/ or a parking lot and the building, it would be closed and located at all times if activity is minimal The hardware should be the same as that used on the emergency exits. • Light is one of the less expensive but most effective deterrents to the commission of a wide variety of crimes.

(b) Internal Design, Sites of • Security/Time-keepers Office: It should enable them to see clearly and easily every person entering and leaving via employees’/receiving entrance. If the time clock and time card racks are not located in his office, they should be in a place where he can easily see them. The office itself should be large enough to accommodate facilities for the safe storage of parcels brought to work by employees. This room should also be assigned as the Hotel Security Office.

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Receiving Clerk—Cost Controller: Their offices should be adjacent to the receiving platform. The Receiving Clerk should be located as close as possible to the receiving platform. Store Rooms should be placed near the receiving area, foodstuff-dry store, general store. Storage areas for silver, linen, furnitures need not be too near. Laundry, Uniform Issue and Housekeeping Operations should be in adjacent space. Personnel Office should have easy access to the employees entrance, for applicants employees as well as those already employed. The corridor leading from the entrance to the office should be easily observable by the time-keeper/ Entrance Security Guard. Lobby: In planning lobby designs, every possible effort should be made to avoid having the front desk cashier near an exterior door or near a stair well. By the same token, the front desk should be so situated that duty personnels have a good view of the lobby generally, and an unobstructed view of both, the hotel main entrance and the passenger elevator bays. The space allocated for safe deposit boxes whether for guest or hotel use, may be incorporated with the front desk-cashier station, or it should be adjacent to and observable from that position. .

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The Hotels Telephone Operating Room: should not be near the stair wall. From an operational point of view, it is a sensitive activity requiring some degree of protection. • The Executive Offices should be accessible, but not to the extent that needless traffic or disruption is encouraged. • Elevators: In designing new facilities, it is best to avoid combining pool and service lifts. Otherwise there will be virtually uncontrolled access to the entire house, especially between the hours of 11.00 p.m. to 7.00 a.m. when service is minimal if not non existent. (c) Doors and Locks Wood doors — generally offices rooms Steel doors — store-rooms, F & B lockers, walk in refrigerators. Doors leading to Head Cashier’s office to Telephone operation Room. Fire doors — must satisfy local requirements and acts if any. Electro-mechanical locks for these and for the main door. Pad locks for refrigerated units. Time recording locks on store rooms if available. All types of stores, linen closets, house keeping supply rooms, general stores etc. should be locked at all times, except when appropriate staff are physically present.

(d) Storage and Protection of Valuables • Safe deposit boxes are useful for the storage of guests’ valuables. They also can be used by the hotel staff for the safe keeping of cashier’s boxes and of certain select keys. • Cash, other negotiables, and important records should be stored in secured facility.

Other important records, such as personal files the same degree of protection as corporate records, insurance policies, accounts receivable and payable, or contracts should be given. They should not be available for unauthorised persons. Standard metal like cabinets secured at the end of the working day are adequate. There are other fields such as administrative, store, purchase and engineering and transport departments, where adequate security measures are to be taken to protect the loss and pilferage of properties in particular and to guard things from possible sabotage during the course of strike etc.

Hotels having out door gardens, garden chairs, decorative light fitting etc. should accordingly arrange adequate security measures outside the buildings as well. (e) Key Control in Hotels In hotels, guests rooms, entrances, doors to the various other rooms need locking system for security purposes. Age old process is to lock the rooms with good quality locks, latches and by similar other arrangements. In very sophisticated hotels, electronic door locks are now being used in many countries. The system is a development based on electronically linked computer located in a central place usually in the reception department. An electronic key looks like a piece of plastic coated card. Imprinted on the key are a number of notches making it useful for number of terms with different combinations Electronic keys are lighter and easy to store and handle. Housekeeping staff are usually responsible for key control Otherwise the job is looked after by security department staff or by staff deputed for the purpose by the management according to the hotel policy. In Western type hotels, the following key systems are in use Grand Master Key Usually kept by the duty officer or by the housekeeping manager. It works on every lock in the building—internal as well as external, Master Key This key works on any internal door.

Sub Master Key This is for a particular floor or for a section. It is kept by the floor housekeeper or by person responsible for the cleaning etc. of the floor. Room key This is given to the guest when he checks in and is taken back when he checks out. It is usually attached to a long tag on which the room number is engraved. Sometimes hotel’s name, address or logo are also engraved or written. The purpose is for easy location and prevent it from easily lost during use. All keys should be stored out of general view of the public A record should be maintained each time after issue and return from the authorised staff for security purposes. It is also advisable to limit the number of unlocked entrances and exits. Never lend out room keys—or master keys.

There should not be any hesitation to question suspicious looking persons in the premises. Housekeeping staff should undertake regular patrols around the building in and out.

Family Security Hotels & Motels Hotel and Motel Security Our family is at the center of our personal universe. Most people would do almost anything for the sake of their family. That includes protecting them from known dangers and harm while lodging at hotels or motels. This becomes increasing difficult, at times, because we live in an open society where we share the same public places as the violent criminals like at hotels and motels..

Family Security Plan Whenever your family walks out the front door they leave that zone of protection that you have created. The secret to keeping your family reasonable safe once they leave home is to have a family security plan. To develop a family security plan you must give careful thought to the public routines of each family member and think of ways to make them safer from the violent people in the world. The best way to accomplish this is to hold a family meeting to discuss this plan and play what if using different scenarios. For example, what if we need to stay overnight in a hotel? What steps should we take to make the process safer? What if we want to go to the swimming pool or gym? What precautions can we take to be safer in the parking lot? What if someone approaches to rob us while walking to our car on the street at night? What would we do and how would we react? Where would we go and who would we notify in case of emergency? Most people have no such family plan and have not met as a family to discuss what if situations. When or if a criminal assault does occur, the family will not be prepared and will have to rely on instinct in response to the incident. What if their response instincts are wrong or their reactions inappropriate, under the circumstances? We read about these all the time in the newspaper or hear about them on television, for example, where a child was walking in an unfamiliar place and was tricked into a car of a total stranger and kidnapped.

Hotels and Motels When traveling on business or pleasure with your family, it may become necessary to stay overnight in a hotel or motel. Your hotel room becomes your home for the night and is your sanctuary while you sleep. It is important to give some thought to what hotel or motel you select and what room you are willing to accept. The cost of the hotel room is not always a good predictor of how safe the room or property will be. There are a few rules of thumb that should apply to any hotel room you rent.

Room Location

Always request a room on an upper floor, if possible. Ground floor rooms are more vulnerable to crime problems because of access and ease of escape. In a high rise building, rooms above the fifth floor are usually safer than those below, again because of accessibility and ease of escape. Criminals do not want to be trapped on an upper floor inside a high-rise hotel. High-rise buildings usually have fewer ground level access points and are easier for the hotel staff to monitor who passes through the lobby after hours.

Room Security Features Hotel or motel rooms should be equipped with a solid-wood or a metal door for best protection. Room doors should have a deadbolt lock with a one-inch throw bolt. If the lock looks worn or there are pry marks around the lock area, get another room or move to another hotel. The knob lock should be hotel-style where you can push a button on the inside knob and block out all keys. This feature is designed to prevent a former guest or housekeeper from entering the room once you are inside. Hotels with electronic cardaccess have the advantage of being able to disable former key-cards issued to other guests. The room door should have a wide-angle peephole so you can view who is at the door before opening. Do not rely on door chains or swing bars to secure the doors when you peek out to speak someone. Teach your children not to open the door to any hotel room without knowing the person on the other side.

Make sure all windows and sliding doors are secured if they are accessible from the ground. It is a good idea to pull on all windows and glass doors to test if they are secure. Beware of balconies where someone can climb from one to another and enter through an open window or sliding door. If the windows or sliding doors are not securable, ask for another room or find another hotel.

Supervise Children Children should not be allowed to wander the hotel grounds unsupervised. Everyone at a hotel is a stranger and it is difficult to discern who is a registered guest or who has criminal intentions. Do not leave a child at the pool or gym unsupervised. These are prime targets for predators. If you are a woman traveling alone or with small children, take advantage of car valet service, if available to avoid the parking lot. After checking in at the desk, ask the bellman or desk clerk to escort you to your room. After unlocking the room, quickly inspect the closets, under the bed, and bathroom including behind the shower curtain before the bellman leaves. When you find a suitable hotel that meets your standards and will cater to your needs, try to stick with it or with the same hotel chain. • • • • • • • •

Always request a room on an upper floor, if possible A solid core door with a good deadbolt lock is best Electronic card-access locks minimize key control questions Make sure your door has a peephole and night latch and use it Use your do not disturb sign whenever you are in the room Inspect the room hiding places upon entering and check all locks Supervise children at al times especially at the pool or gym Ask the bellman for an escort and use valet parking, if alone

Family Security Hotels Motels

Electronic cards are the new key to hotel safety Years ago, when a business traveler checked into a hotel, he or she got a key to the room that sometimes had the number of the room printed on the tag. Some tags had an address label for a post office box to return the key, should it get misplaced or lost. In today's world, however, that system is no longer safe and efficient. In most larger hotels, metal keys have been replaced with electronic key cards and computer systems.

"Once you check out of that room, that key won't work anywhere else, not even on the room you were staying in," said Paige Koerbel, general manager of the 399-room Dayton Marriott. "The electronic key cards really do enhance the safety of the room for the guest." Electronic key cards are similar to ATM cards -- they have an attached magnetic strip that is coded by the check-in computer and read by the lock on the hotel room door. A whole new key, with a different code, is created for each room with every change of guest. The codes from the previous use are wiped out by the computer and replaced with a new pattern that is also sent electronically to the room lock. The key cards are anonymous and easily changed, making it nearly impossible for a would-be burglar to pick up a card and break into a room. The changeover from traditional lock and key to the electronic systems costs between $300 and $350 per room. The cards themselves only cost six cents each and can be reused many times. The only drawback to the technological version of room security is demagnetization. If an electronic key is carried too close to a magnet or other credit card, it can lose its code. "If that happens, then we ask the person for a photo identification before issuing them a new key and letting them back into the room," said Jeff Baumgardner, general manager of the Crowne Plaza Dayton. A picture ID is also necessary for issuance of a card during check in. In the event of a break-in or a security question, Koerbel said the hotel has the "ability to do a lock interrogation. We can run a report based on that particular lock

and find out exactly which keys have been in that lock and when." Housekeeping and maintenance have master keys that will also show up on the report. However, neither Koerbel nor Baumgardner reported any security problems at either hotel. They said break-ins are rare to nonexistent and that the new security is designed to thwart any thief. "I think people in general are more concerned about security. These new keys have worked out extraordinarily well for us," Koerbel said. That concern over security has become a big issue at AAA, which issues an annual National Road Report that rates hotels, motels and other lodging for its members. "Key cards are considered one of the things that can help an establishment get a higher rating," said Ray Keyton, vice president of AAA Miami Valley. "The cards are certainly a plus for an establishment." The rating process covers a number of criteria ranging from cleanliness to security. After a hotel is evaluated, it is given a "diamond" rating number from one to five, with one meaning "the establishment meets the minimum standards." There are no hotels in the Dayton area with a four or five Diamond rating at this time, Keyton said. However, Keyton added that the key cards are a definite step in the right direction. "The cards are a win-win situation for the establishment and the guests. They are easier to maintain and are much better from a security standpoint." Baumgardner said hotels are increasing security in other ways by making more use of video cameras in the lobbies and stiffening identification requirements for obtaining keys. The Crowne Plaza, which switched to the key cards last summer, has noticed a positive response from patrons. "We don't have a problem with people breaking in here anyway. I'm not aware of any documentation saying anyone has tried to pick a lock to get into a room," he said. "But these keys, which are easier to replace and carry, let the guests know that they have a lot better security on their rooms."

Hotel Safety Tips For Travelers Before your trip • •

Copy all credit cards, airline tickets, passports and important documents, front and back. Jewelry and luggage and all valuables should be photographed prior to trip.

What to look for in a safe hotel:

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If possible, select a hotel with has installed modern electronic guest room locks. The majority of these locks automatically change the lock combination with every new guest so there is little chance of someone having a duplicate key to your room. If you lose or misplace your key, ask to have your room re-keyed immediately. Is each room equipped with a dead bolt lock and a peephole? Fire sprinklers in hotel rooms, hallways, and meeting rooms likewise for smoke detectors. If each room is not equipped with a smoke detector, are sprinklers systems installed in the hallways or is your only hope the local fire department. Each room telephone should allow outside dialing. Guest phones located in hallways and lobbies should not allow direct room dialing. Anyone using the phone should have to call the operator and request a room by guest name, not room number. Secure locks on windows and adjoining doors. Well-lit interior hallways, parking structures and grounds. Hotels that have limited access to hotel structure, generally the more limited the access; the less likely a trespasser will enter. The parking garage should not have elevators taking passengers to guest floors. It should only go to the lobby. Does hotel provide personnel trained in guest security and available for escorts to rooms and auto when requested?

When arriving and checking into your hotel room

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If you arrive in a bus or cab, stay with your luggage until it is brought into the hotel lobby. Keep a close eye on your luggage, purse, etc when checking in. If the lobby is busy, thieves will often take advantage of the distractions to take your things with them. If you are staying in an older room which still has the older guest door locks with metal key, one of first signs of how a hotel treats the issue of security is to observe how hotel room keys are controlled. If it is checkout time and a pile of metal room keys are laying on the front desk, the hotel is not too concerned about your security. Anyone can take and key laying on

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the desk. This is not a big concern if the hotel is using electronic key cards but is if the metal keys have the room number embossed on it. You will find this more prevalent overseas. Ask the front desk personnel not to announce your room number. Rather, tell them to write it down or point to it. If the desk clerk should do this, explain the problem and asked to be given another room. You never know who is listening. Your room number is a matter of security, and the fewer people that know your whereabouts, the better. There’s no need to announce it to the entire hotel lobby. When registering, sign only your last name and first initial. Don’t use titles or degrees. Makes it harder to determine gender, marital status or profession. If you are a women traveling alone, you might consider booking your room as Mr. and Mrs. Don't leave your credit card lying on the check-in counter while you complete your registration. Also make sure the credit card that is handed back to you by the hotel clerk is really yours. Instruct the desk not to give out your name and room number and ask for them to call you if someone inquires about you. Immediately upon check in, get two business cards or matchbooks with the hotel name and address on them. Place one by the phone in the room so you know where you are and keep the other on you when you leave so you know where to come back to. If you get lost, you have the address and phone number handy. There is nothing more frustrating than telling a cab driver to take you to the "Marriott" and they ask which one?? That could be one very expensive cab ride. Or if you are in a country where you don’t speak the language, you can simply show a taxi driver the matchbook, and you’re on your way back to the hotel.

Room Selection

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Maximize safety and security. Select a room located between the 4 and 6th floor Avoid rooms above the sixth floor--the maximum height that firedepartment ladders can reach. For some fire departments overseas, and within the United States, they do not have equipment to reach hotel floors above the 6th floor Whenever possible do not except a hotel on the ground floor that has doors and windows that open to the outside. Hotels with interior hallways tend to be generally safer. For security in motels, avoid ground floor rooms off the parking lot. If you can't get a room on a higher level, take one facing the interior courtyard. Guestrooms that are as close to the elevators as possible are safest, but tend to be noisier. You might also want to find out if the room is located next to a vending area, those also tend to be noisy.

Elevator safety

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Women should be accompanied to hotel room and room should be checked Observe all passengers in elevators It is wise to board last and select floor buttons last If possible position yourself near the elevator control panel and if attacked, push as many floor buttons as possible. Keep your back to the sidewall. If someone suspicious boards an elevator, exit as soon as possible.

When checking into your hotel room After checking into a room, examine the following: • • • • • •

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Examine the guest room lock and be sure it is functioning properly. The closets and bathrooms are checked to make sure no one is hiding. All windows and outside doors are checked to insure they lock and operate properly The lock on the adjoining door is checked to insure it is locked and works The telephone is checked and you know how to make a outside call Look for information in room about fire safety and read to become familiar with nearest fire exit / stairway. Locate nearest fire exit. Find one at each end of the hallway. How many doors away? Does the door open easily? Are the exit signs illuminated? If the lights are out, be helpful and contact the front desk to let them know. Is the stairwell clear of debris? Make a note on the back of the business card that you place by your bed noting the number of doors away to the emergency exit, in each direction, and the location of the fire extinguisher and fire pull box. When you enter your hotel room, make sure the door closes securely and that the deadbolt works. Keep the deadbolt and safety bar on at all time. It

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cannot be stressed enough that you should never prop your hotel room door open. Anyone could walk in. Place your room key in the same place every time, preferably close to the bed. If you have to leave the room in a hurry due to an emergency, you won't have time to be searching for your key. Also, you'll need the key to get back into the room. When inside a hotel room, for whatever length of time always use the deadbolt. If the room does not a dead bolt or heavy-duty security clasp but has a chain, twist it to take up the slack before latching it. The door to your room must never be opened by anyone unless the guest is absolutely known. If you receive a phone call to your room and the person states they are with the hotel and need to come to your room and repair something, use caution. Always get the employees name and call the front desk to verify that it was a legitimate employee who called you and they do in fact need to come to your room. Some criminals are known to where hotel uniforms or pose a plainclothes security. The best bet is to be your own security guard. No matter how effective hotel security is, it can't think of everything. If you want to test the hotel, call the switchboard from a house phone and ask for yourself. Tell the operator you are not sure of the room number. If the answer is, "She's in room 203," this is not a good sign. The correct answer is, "I'll connect you." Good security requires that the hotel switchboard not give out room numbers and the best hotels strictly adhere to this policy. When inside your room, use a door swedge when sleeping or in the shower. This may seem a little overkill but overseas, hotel burglars have been know to frequent hotels that use standard metal room keys that are easy to obtain. Unfortunately many hotels do not change the locks to the doors when the keys are lost, the criminals know that many of the hotel rooms might contain valuables of the presumed wealthy western traveler from the United States. Some of the crooks are very bold. They have been know to listen to the room door to see if you are in the shower. If you are they enter your room with the spare key (because no secondary door lock) and removes your wallet, purse, or laptop. If someone else is in the room the crook is in a suit and says “sorry, the front desk gave me this key.” By employing a door swedge will keep out these sly crooks and will could an alarm if attempted. See our products page for one of these devices. Never leave your key in the lock inside your room (some hotels in third world countries still have these). they can be pushed out from the other side with a pin. The crooks simply slides a piece of newspaper under the door, the key drops on the paper and the crook slide the paper and the key back under the door.

Place that all-important flashlight next to your bed.

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It's much too dangerous to be stumbling around in a dark hotel in the middle of the night if the electricity goes out. Also, if you have to evacuate in the event of a fire, the flashlight will help guide you down a smoke filled hallway. Remember, if there is a fire or other such emergency, you are pretty much on your own to evacuate yourself, especially at night. What you learn in the few minutes it takes you to orient yourself to your room and the surrounding areas could mean the difference between life and death If you loose your key, ask for a new room or have the lock or electronic key card changed.

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When you leave your room, always leave the television on. Ask maid to make your room up during breakfast. Place “Do not disturb" sign on door. If you want maid service, call to housekeeping and tell them to make up the room but leave the sign on the door. The sign is valuable when you aren't in the room because it gives the impression you are still inside. At night, leave a light on and drapes should be partially opened as if someone was inside. Always use the security vault in hotel. The in-room safe is adequate sometimes. The ones least recommended are those that take standard keys (usually overseas). Preferred are those that have an electronic combination lock. The front desk deposit boxes are usually safer but more inconvenient. Don't display you guest room key in public or even inside the hotel or at the swimming pool. Crook have known to walk by casually, observe the number in the key if stamped on it and make false charges in the hotel restaurant, bar or store and using your room number.

What to take with you when leaving your hotel room • • •

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Take a minimum of cash, and only enough travelers checks for that outing. Carry “bait money” for potential thieves. Wear minimum jewelry, especially women. Women, wear only a simple wedding band in lieu of a diamond ring. Remember in some foreign cities and even some area within the United States, a diamond ring might be worth what a criminal might earn in a year. Remove the temptation! Keep credit cards and t/checks in separate pockets.

Laptop safety while staying in a in hotel room •

Laptop computers or other expensive items can be easily stolen from hotel rooms. The only way to protect them is to leave them at the front desk in a

safety deposit box or to secure them in your room. If you want to take the easy way by leaving them in your room (most of us do) use a security cable to a fixed object in the hotel. I always attach my laptop to the pipe under the sink in the bathroom when my laptop is left in the hotel room for several hours. Think about it. Would you leave your wallet or purse sitting on the table in the middle of your room? Usually not, but you would leave a $3,500 laptop sitting there! Which is more valuable? Hotel parking lots

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If you valet park your car at the hotel, and valet driver puts a card on your dash, make sure it does not have your room number, always keep it private. Always walk in numbers at night, especially in hotel parking lots Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. Crooks know that rental cars contain items of value.

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Park as close to an exit as possible. When approaching a car, always have keys in hand. Women should keep purses close to their bodies not loose around or dandling off a shoulder. Keep it in front of you with a hand on top of it. Do not feel awkward to ask for an escort to your car. It is recommended to use the valet service at night.

Hotel Fire Safety Tips

"Fire!" The very exclamation itself is enough to render the most stout of heart and soul into victims of panic and fear, if not into another fire fatality statistic. For there is something primeval about fire, one of the great dual-edged swords of civilization: when under our control, we can't imagine living without it. When fire is its own master, it is a malevolent and indiscriminate killer. The threat of fire may be a remote thought for the seasoned business traveler, who stays in a modern hotel, and who assumes every precaution has been taken to ensure that safety is paramount. But the fact is, when staying overnight at even the nicest of establishments, you may be at greater risk than you ever imagined. While there are no hard figures, the U.S. Subcommittee on Science, Research and Technology finds that as many as 85 percent of U.S. hotels lack fire sprinkler systems. At Greatest Risk Each year some 32.6 million fires strike Americans at home, in hotels, or at the workplace. That's one fire virtually every second of the day. Fire is the third largest cause of accidental injury and death in this country. Injuries by fire total two million annually, and one out of every eight accidental deaths is from fire. And the U.S. and Canada have the highest rates of death by fire than any other country in the world. But it isn't necessary to die in the event of fire, even if you are thousands of miles from home in a hotel room with no fire sprinkler system. However, you have to take charge of your own safety. And you have to be prepared in the event the worst happens.

1. Plan Ahead Plan your escape from a fire before you are caught in one. Here’s what I do every time. Before I hang up my clothes or plop down to relax, I familiarize myself with the locations of the fire exits nearest my room. These are generally shown on a map posted on the back of the room door or in a closet. I use the map to locate the two exits nearest my room. Next I take my key and head out the door. I try to imagine how I would find my way to the nearest fire exit in the dark while crawling on my hands and knees. I count the doorways between me and the fire exit and note any obstacles that could get in my way. When I reach the exit, I open the door. A locked door will surely be a death trap if a fire were to occur. (By the way, if the door is alarmed, I first notify the hotel security department of my intention to open the door. Then, without letting the door close behind me, possibly trapping me in the stairwell, I take a look inside to get an idea of its configuration and to confirm that the stairwell is free of obstacles that could block my escape. On my way to or from my room, I find the nearby fire alarms and fire extinguishers or fire hoses. If there are none visible, I’ll call the front desk when I return to my room to ask their location. Then I’ll go verify their actual presence. Because it’s possible that my path to the nearest fire escape may be blocked during an emergency, I map out a secondary escape route that would take me in the opposite direction as the route I just followed. Again, I note the locations of the fire alarms and extinguishers/hoses. When I return to my room, I look out the window to see if it would be possible to jump without breaking my neck. In case I’d have to escape that way, I look for obstacles under my window. I verify the operation of the smoke detector in my room. Typically, a small light on the smoke detector indicates its operation. If I’m unsure that it is working, I call the front desk for assistance. I figure out how to turn off the fan that delivers air into my room. I find the location of both the entry- and return-air vents and make a mental note of how I could seal them if I were trapped in my room during a hotel fire. Then, because I’d need to let others know I was in my room, I make sure that I can get an outside telephone connection - typically by pressing “8” or “9” - without relying on a hotel operator.

Finally, with an escape plan in place, now I relax. 2. If There is a Fire If there is any indication or even a suspicion of a fire, call the hotel operator immediately. Give your name, room number, and a brief description of the situation. Before attempting to leave your room, grab your key. If your family is with you, determine a meeting place outdoors so you will know everyone is safe. Feel the door with the back side of your hand. (if you used your palm, it might burn your hand due to heat transfer and you would have a hard time using it) If the door or knob is warm, do not open it. If the door is not warm, drop to your knees and slowly open the door, but be ready to slam it should a cloud of smoke roll in. If the hallway is clear, head for the exit, not the elevator. Close your door behind you. Take your key with you. Do not stand upright, but crawl or keep low to the floor to avoid smoke and odorless carbon monoxide. Stay on the same side of the hall as your exit, counting the number of doors to the exit. When you reach the exit, walk quickly, but cautiously down the stairs, and hold on to the handrail as you go. Smoke will sometimes get into an exit stairwell. If you encounter smoke, do not try to run through it. Turn around and walk up. Proceed to a smoke free corridor and cross the building to an alternate exit. If you are unable to leave your room, make every effort to notify someone that you are in your room. If you cannot reach the hotel operator, call the local fire department and identify your exact location. Signal to them by hanging a bed sheet from your window. If there is smoke in your room, open the window. Do not break the glass unless it is absolutely necessary because heavier smoke may begin to enter from outside. Fill the bathtub with water. Wet towels and sheets and stuff them around the door and vent which is allowing smoke to enter the room. If the door and walls are hot, bail water on them with your ice bucket to keep them cool· Place the mattress up against the door and hold it in place with the dresser. Keep it wet. Keep everything wet·

A wet towel tied around your nose and mouth will help filter out smoke if you fold it into a triangle and put the corner in your mouth. If there is a fire outside of the window, pull down the drapes and move everything that is flammable away from the window. Do not jump from the room. A fall from this height can cause serious injury. Rather, continue to protect yourself from the fire and signal from your window for help. Thieves Discover New Way To Get Hotel Guests' Credit Card Numbers It's late. You are in your hotel room getting ready to get some rest after a long flight, a full day of business or hours of sightseeing in a new city. The phone rings. It's the desk requesting confirmation on your credit card number and expiration date. You provide the information; give a fleeting thought to wondering why they can't keep these numbers straight and go to sleep. Your next credit card statement arrives full of charges you never made. It wasn't the front desk calling after all. Like all effective scams, this one is simple, does not arouse suspicion and gives the thieves a wide window in which to work. Unless the charges they make are so out-of-the-ordinary that your credit card company's interest is piqued, they may have weeks to enjoy spending your money. Of course you can dispute these charges but why go through the hell that can entail? Don't put yourself in a position to have your credit card rejected because your limit has been used up by someone else. Never give out any credit card information on an incoming call. Asking for a number to call back is not enough. Clever thieves will come up with one. Independently acquire the number and call it. If you find out that the call was a scam, report it to the front desk immediately.

Hotel Security Room Invasion Robbery

Travelers Beware One of the more frightening and potentially dangerous crimes that can occur to a family or business traveler is a hotel room invasion robbery. A hotel room invasion occurs when robbers force their way into an occupied hotel or motel room to commit a robbery or other crimes. It is frightening because it violates our private space and the one place that acts as our temporary sanctuary while away from home. Some travelers never recover from the experience of being assaulted while in a hotel room in a strange city. Hotel or motel room invasion robbery is like the residential form of an automobile carjacking and it is on the rise. Like the crime of carjacking, most police agencies don’t track home or hotel room invasions as a separate crime. Most police agencies and the FBI will statistically record the crime as a residential burglary or a robbery. Without the ability to track the specific crime of hotel room invasion, little can be done to alert the public as to the frequency of occurrence or devise a law enforcement plan of action to prevent it.

Criminal Profiles

Hotel burglars work mostly during the day and when a room is more likely to be unoccupied. Most burglars work alone and tend to probe a hotel looking for the right room and the right opportunity. Access control systems, good building design, strong locks and doors, and alert hotel staff can often deter burglars. Also, burglars don’t want to be confronted and will usually flee when approached. Most burglaries do not result in violence unless the criminal is cornered and uses force to escape.

Hotel room invasion robbers, in contrast, work more often at night when rooms are more likely to be occupied and less staff is on duty. The hotel room invaders usually target the occupant and room location and not necessarily the hotel. The selection process may include women traveling alone or senior citizens, or known drug dealers, or wealthy

travelers, for example. It is not unusual for a robber to follow the victim to their hotel room based on the value of the car they were driving or the jewelry or clothes they were wearing. Hotel room invaders have been known to work casinos and watch for guests flashing large sums of money or jewelry. Hotel room invaders usually work alone or with just one accomplice and they rely on an overwhelming physical confrontation to gain control and instill fear in the room occupants. The violence occurs instantly with an overwhelming explosive force to take control of the room. The hotel room invaders often come equipped with handcuffs, rope, tape, and weapons. Some hotel room robbers appear to enjoy the intimidation, domination, and violence and some claim it’s a "rush." Some hotel robbers are also opportunist rapist and may sexually assault their victims.

Dangerous Trends The act of committing a hotel room invasion is escalating much like carjacking. The reason for the increase seems to follow a similar pattern. Much like automobiles, the traditional commercial targets for robbers have hardened themselves against criminal attack. Technology has allowed commercial establishments to install better locks, and other anti-crime deterrent devices. Guest room robbers have privacy once inside and don’t have to deal with security or hotel staff or other guests who might suddenly appear. Once the offenders take control of a guest room, they can force the occupants to open room safes, locate hidden valuables, supply keys to the car, and PIN numbers to their ATM cards. Guest room robbers will increase their escape time by disabling the phones and sometimes leave their victims bound or incapacitated. It is not unheard of for robbers to load up the victim’s car with valuables and drive away without anyone in the hotel taking notice.

Method of Operation The most common point of attack is through the guest room door or patio door. Sometimes the hotel room invader will simply kick open the door and confront everyone inside. More common is when the hotel room invaders knock on the door first. The room invader hopes that the occupant will simply open the door, without question, in response to their knock. Unfortunately, many people do just that. Guest room robbers will sometimes use a ruse or impersonation to get you to open the door. They have been known to pretend to be room service, housekeeping, security, or delivering flowers. Clever room robbers might hold a room service tray or flowers in view of the peephole to further the impersonation. Once the door is opened for them, the hotel room invaders will use an explosive amount of force and threats to gain control of the room and produce fear in the victims. Once the occupants are under control, the robbers will begin to collect your portable valuables.

Another tactic is for a robber to select a victim in the lobby and ride up in the elevator with them. They will get off on the same floor and pretend walk behind you as if going to their room. Once the guest opens their door, the robber will force his way in behind them and make his demand.

Prevention Steps The same tactics used to prevent daytime burglaries will go a long way to preventing forced entry hotel robberies. If you can delay a guest room invader at the point of entry then you have a chance of deterring them or calling the police. A solid core door and strong locks with reinforced strike plates will stop most forced entries. See my web page on Hotel Security Tips for more detailed information. Select a hotel room on an upper floor when available. Ground floor rooms are most vulnerable because of immediate access and ease of escape. Guest rooms adjacent to fire stairs are also selected more often by robbers for use in a rapid escape. The weakest hotel security link is the room guest who fails to lock doors or windows or who will open the door without question at the sound of a knock. If you see a suspicious male nearby, let them pass before you open your door or enter the room quickly and lock it behind you. The best defense against hotel room invasion is education and planning. If you frequently travel to same city on business, select and stay with the same hotel or hotel chain that offers security amenities. Parents should hold a family meeting to discuss how to answer the door when someone knocks. Another important topic is how to act should your room be invaded. Once you know how hotel robbers work, you can effectively prevent most occurrences.

Remember these important security steps: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Make sure your room has solid doors, locks, and peephole Request a room on the third floor or above Beware of strange males that exit the elevator on your floor. Let them exit first and you return to the lobby if suspicious Change rooms or hotel if not secure or locks are worn Request a room away from fire stairs or end units Lock all doors and windows at all times Use the door peephole to see who is knocking Never use a chain-latch to partially open the door Never open the door to strangers or solicitors Call the police or front desk if the stranger acts suspicious Call the front desk if someone claims to be with the hotel Hold a family meeting to discuss hotel room security

Hotel Motel Room Invasion Robbery

Hotel Motel Security

Safety Advice for Travelers Hotel Motel Room Sanctuary When traveling on business or pleasure, it may become necessary to stay overnight in a hotel or motel. Your hotel room becomes your home for the night and is your sanctuary while you sleep. It is important to give some thought about security planning. What hotel or motel are you going to select, and what room you are willing to accept? The cost of the hotel room is not always the best predictor of how safe the room will be. There are a few security rules of thumb that should apply to any hotel room you rent.

Higher Floors are Safer Upper floors are safer from crime, but worse for fire rescue. Emergency rescue is best below the fifth floor. I compromise by picking a modern fire-safe hotel and always request a room on an upper floor to reduce crime exposure. Ground floor rooms are more vulnerable to crime problems because of access and ease of escape. In a high-rise building, rooms above the fifth-floor are usually safer from crime than those below because of lesser accessibility and ease of escape. Also, rooms not adjacent to fire stairs are safer from room invaders because they use them for escape. Criminals do not want to be trapped on an upper floor inside a high-rise hotel. By design, high-rise buildings usually have fewer ground level access points and are easier for the hotel staff to monitor who passes through the lobby after hours.

Door Security Hardware Hotel or motel rooms should be equipped with a solid-core wood or metal door for best protection. Doors should be self-closing and self-locking. Room doors should have a deadbolt lock with at least a one-inch throw bolt. If the lock appears worn or there are pry marks around the lock area, get another room or move to another hotel. The knob-lock should be hotel-style where you can push a button on the inside knob and block out all keys. This feature is designed to prevent a former guest or housekeeper from entering the room once you are safely inside. Hotels with electronic card access have the advantage of being able to disable former keycards issued to previous guests and unauthorized employees. Electronic locks also will block out most room service keys when you set the deadbolt. The room door should have a wide-angle peephole so you can view who is at the door before opening.

ALARM DOOR SECURITY

Access Control Do not open your door to someone who knocks unannounced. Some criminals will pretend to be a bellman, room service, maintenance, or even hotel security to gain admittance to your room. See my web pages on Hotel Room Invasion. Always call the front desk to confirm their status with the hotel and only open the door if you requested the service. Do not rely on door chains or swing bars to secure the doors while you partially open the door to speak someone. These are unreliable security devices. Teach your children not to open the door of any hotel room without knowing the person on the other side and without your permission.

Other Entry Points Make sure all windows and sliding doors are secured, if they are accessible from the ground. It is a good idea to test all windows and glass doors to see if they are secure. Beware of balconies where someone can climb from one to another and enter through an open window or sliding door. If the windows or sliding doors are not securable, ask for another room or find another hotel. If your room has an adjoining door to an adjacent room, check it to see that it is secured with a deadbolt lock. If it is questionable, ask for another room.

Beware the Parking Lot If you are a woman traveling alone or with small children, take advantage of car valet service, if available to avoid the parking lot. After checking-in, ask the bellman or desk clerk to escort you to your room. After unlocking the room, quickly inspect the closets, under the bed, and bathroom including behind the shower curtain before the bellman leaves. Tip the bellman for his efforts.

Occupancy Cues Put the Do-Not-Disturb sign on the doorknob even when you are away, this deters room burglars (it may affect housekeeping service, however). Turn on the TV or radio just loud enough to hear through the door to give the appearance that the room is occupied. Leave one light on inside the room if you will return after dark. This helps you see upon re-entry and gives the room the appearance of occupancy from the outside. Always go through the same room inspection routine every time you re-enter. Women travelling alone should use caution when using the breakfast order door-knob hanger card. This card lists your name and number of persons in the room. A smart crook can knock on the door posing as room service and use your name as a ruse to gain entry. When you find a suitable hotel that meets your safety standards and will cater to your security needs try to stick with it or with the same hotel chain. Don't be afraid to complain to management to get the safe room you deserve. • • • • • • • •

Always request a room on an upper floor, if possible A solid door with a good deadbolt lock is best Electronic card access locks help limit access Make sure your door has a peephole and night latch and use it Turn on the TV or radio just loud enough to hear through the door Turn on a single light in the room if you plan to return after dark Inspect the room hiding places upon entering and check all locks Ask the bellman for an escort and use valet parking if alone

Hotel Security As a Guest Amenity Hotel safety and security is a growing concern among travelers throughout the world. Let’s face it; traveling is stressful enough without having to worry about becoming a crime victim while away from home. One only has to look at the negative impact on hotel bookings, following a highly publicized tourist attack, to see how important the perception of security is to the traveler. When there is a choice, frequent travelers will seek out a hotel property that has superior security amenities. Initially, savvy travelers will select a property that satisfies their criteria and balance of location, price, business facilities, and food service. However, after visiting the property, it’s the security features that might determine the continued loyalty of a guest.

Design Factors The first opportunity to present a positive impression about the relative safety of a hotel or motel property is at the perimeter. For maximum effectiveness, there must be an obvious and distinct design transition as you enter the property from the public street. Solid deterrent cues include significant barriers like perimeter walls, decorative fencing, landscaped terraces, and a well-defined driveway and main entrance. A strong transition sends a subliminal message to the criminal that this hotel is private property and for use by hotel guests only.

Lighting Good exterior lighting is designed to fill the gap between the property boundary and the hotel entrance and is the most important nighttime security feature. Public areas, when bathed in light, are both inviting to the guest and a powerful deterrent to crime. Good exterior lighting will allow you to see a potential threat at 100 feet. This minimum level of visibility gives you time to respond to the threat before being confronted by it. Exterior lighting must be even and balanced. Balanced lighting appears warm and comfortable and makes a property feel safe.

To achieve a balanced lighting effect, more fixtures are often necessary to fill the lighting gaps. Huge floodlights are not the best choice because they are not energy-efficient and tend to create glare and heavy shadows between fixtures. A surprising benefit of adding more and smaller light fixtures are that the total wattage can be reduced, which will save significant amounts of energy. Many properties have been able to pay for their entire lighting fixture upgrade in just one year, based on their energy savings alone.

Curbside Deterrence Parking lot security is often the most overlooked area on a hotel property. Stranger-tostranger crimes against persons are more likely to occur in the parking lot than in any other location. This is because parking lots offer the criminal the best hiding places, the fewest witnesses, and the quickest escape route. Parking lot surveillance can be relatively inexpensive by installing video cameras, but nothing beats a highly visible, uniformed security patrol that is capable of responding to a criminal incident and can call for help. Besides, a hotel guest would rather see a "live person" on the job that is paid to look out for their welfare. Highly visible doormen and valet parking attendants are a great crime deterrent, especially on smaller hotel properties. Nothing instills more confidence in a hotel guest than a capable doorman who greets and makes eye contact with them as they enter the property. Criminals don’t like doormen for two reasons: First, they don’t want to be identified, and second, they don’t want to be captured should they have to escape in a hurry. Without competent curbside security, crimes like purse snatches, car thefts, and luggage thefts would increase substantially on most urban properties. A doorman can monitor a property better if the number of entrances is limited, especially at night. This design philosophy gives the hotel the advantage of making the criminal feel "out of place" and therefore more likely to be deterred. Access control cues must continue inside the property to be totally effective and to foster that "safe and secure feeling" within a guest. As for the criminal, access control is like peeling an onion...the more layers they penetrate…the more uncomfortable it should feel.

Interior Access Control In addition to physical barriers, access control involves the use of electronic equipment, personnel, and procedures. For example, the entire hotel staff should be trained to be attentive to all persons and report suspicious activity to the manager-on-duty. Hotel guests love this high level of courtesy and staff attentiveness, while criminals hate it. Hotel criminals prefer to remain unnoticed and anonymous. Multiple staff contacts will make them feel very uncomfortable and is usually enough to make them go elsewhere to ply their trade.

In a high-rise hotel, the ground floor lobby presents another major opportunity to deter crime. The best security designs position the registration, bellman, and concierge desks in a position to view critical access points. Important access points include the front, back, or side entrances, elevator banks, lounge, and restaurant entrances. In large metropolitan hotels, extra attention needs to be paid to guest luggage, briefcases, and handbags left casually on the lobby floor.

Guestroom Security The guestroom represents the inner-circle of a hotel security plan. The guestroom is the sanctuary for the weary traveler where they expect to be safe. The guestroom doors and windows must be fortified to prevent forced entry, especially at the ground level. Doors must be nothing less than solid-core wood or metal, and be self-closing and self-locking. The door lock must consist of a high quality deadbolt with at least a one-inch bolt. The lock strike-plate must be bolted securely to the metal doorframe or by using three-inch screws when attached to a wood doorjamb. Accessible sliding windows must have secondary security devices attached to prevent forced entry or lifting out of the frame. Visible signs of door lock maintenance are important to travelers. Doors must be tight fitting and the locks must be in good condition and should give a distinctive "clunk" as the deadbolt slides and locks in place. Guestroom doors must be equipped with a wideangle peephole so a guest can see who is outside before opening the door.

A much appreciated guest amenity is the personal in-room lock-box. I especially appreciate the large ones that can secure my laptop computer. Electronic and keyless lock-boxes are best, as long as they are securely anchored. Although not designed to replace the hotel safe deposit box, in-room lock-boxes provide extra peace of mind for storing small valuables and personal documents.

Key Control

Metal room keys are being replaced by electronically coded key-cards. There is nothing more unsettling than checking into an upscale hotel and being issued a metal room key with the correct room number stamped on the key. Metal keys require a hotel to maintain an elaborate key control system with daily inventories of master key and E-Key checkout logs for the staff. The guest has no way of knowing that an adequate key control system is in place. If a room key or master key turns up missing, the affected locks must be changed. This event creates an on-going maintenance expense for a hotel.

Metal room keys do not make the same "security statement" as coded plastic key-cards. Key-cards have the capability of being randomly coded at the point of registration, which re-emphasizes the guest perception of room security. Key-card control is computer-based and therefore creates the necessary audit trail automatically. Master keys can be changed in a matter of a few keystrokes and lost key-cards are easily removed from the system. One of the best security features is the ability of the computer to interrogate each door lock and get a printout of everyone who accessed a particular room. This dramatically cuts down on theft from the rooms by hotel employees.

Predictions Traveler demand for hotels that promote enhanced security will increase in the coming especially with the added fear of terrorism. Security amenities are important to travelers, especially the elderly and women traveling alone. I predict security conscious properties will gain advantage over competing hotels that fail to recognize this important new trend.

Hotel Motel Security as an Amenity

Safe Storing • When opening boxes, remove nails. Don’t bend them down. • Store heavy materials on bottom shelves, medium weight next above, light weight on top. • Food containers should always be covered except when in actual use. When opening anything keep away from food containers, they might catch splinters, bits of paper wrapping etc. • Get rid of dirt, trash and grease to reduce fire hazard. • Use ladders, not boxes and chairs to get things from high shelves. • Avoid losing your balance, • Store full containers below eye level. • Don’t overload trolleys, • Don’t carry bulky objects too big for you to see over or around.

Safe Floors • Keep floors in good repair, dry and clean. • Clean up spillage promptly • When weather is humid, tile floors become slippery, therefore be careful.

Safe Doors and Drawers • Be careful in closing drawers, they might pinch fingers and hand. • Open and close doors by handles.

Safety with Containers • Don’t overflow containers. • Place food scraps in protected sanitary containers. • Keep hands out of mechanized garbage disposal machines.