Book hotel reservations using only first, middle initial and last name, particularly women traveling alone.

Leave an itinerary and expected return date with friends or family.

Do not carry large amounts of cash. Use traveler's checks. Keep a record of traveler's check numbers, credit card numbers, photocopy of passport and other valuable documents separate from originals.

Keep room numbers private. Don't sign bar or restaurant checks with your room number. Keep track of room keys. If a key is lost, ask for a different room, or ask for the locks to be changed.

Use all locks on hotel door, particularly the double lock. Consider bringing with you a motel/hotel portable lock. Always lock the door when leaving.

When returning to your room, make sure that you have your room key out and ready.

Never automatically open your door when a knock is heard. Know your visitor's identity prior to admittance. Use your peephole, if available, or talk through the locked door. If someone claims they are from maintenance, security or a hotel employee, phone the front desk to make sure the visitor is legitimate.

Valuables should not be left in the room, you or the people who service your room may occasionally forget to lock it. Put valuables in a signed and sealed envelope and leave it in the room safe or the front desk safe deposit box.

Be alert for suspicious persons in the hotel hallways. Report them to the manager.

Do not advertise how long you will be away from your room. Leave a light on or a TV or radio playing to give the impression that the room is occupied.

Locate fire exits, elevators and the nearest phone. Plan the best way to get out of the building in an emergency.

Label all pieces of luggage with your name, address, and phone number, both inside and outside. For the outside label be sure to use a tag that closes, so the information can't be read by a passerby.

Lock all pieces of luggage.

Never leave your baggage unattended. If it's a problem, check it or put it in a locker.

Hand carry medication, currency and important documents or keep them in a money belt.

Seattle Hotels