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If you subscribe to my free daily travel tip newsletter then you know I’ve been writing a lot about keeping your belongings safe from smash-and-grabs and a device criminals are known to use to open hotel room doors from the inside. RELATED: This Portable Safe Helps Keep Your Valuables Safe When You’re on the Go


And if you thought putting the safety latch on your door was good enough protection, then check out the video below. It takes the bad guys less than 10 seconds to open your door with just some duct tape and an elastic band. Another reason to use your own locks, a door stopper and/or a door alarm.


I know, it’s eye opening and I don’t mean to scare you. I’ve been traveling for almost three decades and have never had an issue, knock on wood. However, it’s good to be aware of what some criminals are capable of doing. RELATED: This Simple Trick You’ve Probably Never Thought of Can Help to Keep You (And Your Stuff) Safe

NOTE: I know some people may feel that sharing this video only helps to educate people on how to commit crimes. But the truth is, criminals already know this stuff or can easily find it online. My goal is to help people understand the risks so they can protect themselves. After all, knowledge is power.

Another thing I want to bring to your attention is a video I recently came across on Instagram (embedded below) of how quickly some incredible athletes can climb. This guy is not a criminal as far as I know but if he can scale a building this fast that means others can, too, including some people with nefarious intentions. So lock your balcony door and windows, even when you’re not on the ground floor.

For those staying in house rentals, I read an article in my local newspaper about how some homes were being burglarized via their second story floors. Per the Easy Reader: “All three homes were entered through a second-story window and targeted the home’s master bedroom. Jewelry was stolen from each of the homes. “My crime tip for people would be don’t leave anything in the backyard where they could climb up. And obviously, burglary alarms are helpful, lighting is good, and cameras are excellent for us,” MBPD Sgt. Andy Abreu. “None of us are immune from crime,” he said.”

Sgt. Abreu went on to say, “there are things we can do. The biggest thing, and I know it’s cliche, but if you see something, say something. If you see something out of place in your neighborhood, call the police and we’ll come and check it out.”

KEEP READING:
The Grossest Thing in Your Hotel Room Isn’t What You Think … And Might Even Be Dirtier Than the Toilet
My Terrifying Hotel Fire Experience and What I Learned from It
This Portable Safe Helps Keep Your Valuables Safe
How Much to Tip Housekeeping & Make Sure They Get It
Think Before Leaving Your Toothbrush out in Your Hotel Room
Why You Should Always Lock The Deadbolt While In A Hotel Room

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1 Comment On "Why Travelers Should Lock Their Second Floor and Above Balcony Doors and Windows While on Vacation"
  1. Don|

    I think I’ll just stay home!
    I’m glad I don’t live in a big city.

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