Keep yourself safe while you're on vacation and protect your home and belongings while you're away. Photo from Adobe Stock

Before you board the cruise or load your family in the van for a road trip, take a moment to prepare for safe travel this spring break.

“An emergency can happen anywhere,” said Amanda Roach, university director for Emergency Management and Continuity for Indiana University Public Safety. “Planning ahead and being prepared will give you peace of mind while you travel.”

Follow these tips to keep yourself safe while you’re on vacation and protect your home and belongings while you’re away.

• Check the forecast for the areas you’ll visit and pack appropriately.
• If alerts are available in the places you’re traveling, sign up to get notified if severe weather approaches.
• Ensure your vaccinations are up to date and review current outbreak information before you travel.
• Be aware of any travel advisories for the location you’re visiting and follow the safety guidance provided.
• Stay in groups as much as possible when visiting new places.
• Make sure trusted friends or family know your location as you travel.
• Don’t share photos or your travel location on social media until you return to protect your home from burglary.
• Lock up windows and doors before you leave home and stop mail or package deliveries.

More travel safety tips are available on protect.iu.edu.