Manhattan Police Detective’s Corner
By Det. Alex Raske
Hello from the Detective’s Corner.
I hope that you are getting ready for the end of the school year and anticipating your family’s summer vacation. Many Americans will travel across country this summer to experience some of the nation’s numerous attractions. As we get ready to create some family memories or unwind with much needed rest, there are some things I want you to consider before leaving for your destination.
If you plan on having an extended vacation, please communicate with family and friends. Provide them with your contact information so first responders can contact you, if necessary, while you are away. Keep in mind, criminals monitor social media. They look for vacation dates or comments about upcoming trips. In securing your home, ensure that the curtains are closed, the gas stove is shut off, doors are locked, and your neighbors are aware of your absence. Utilize alarm and camera systems if possible. Consider filling out a Vacation House Check Request at the Manhattan Police Department; this enables officers to give your house special attention while you are away.
If you are traveling by vehicle, make sure it is ready to go prior to your trip. Check the gas levels, oil quality, and tire pressure. Make sure you are equipped with a spare tire and a functioning jack. Take ample phone charging cords and, if you’re old school like me, a road map. If you plan on relying on a GPS navigation system, consider printing the directions in case you lose service along the way. Once, when I was traveling from Georgia to Texarkana, I lost phone service. I had to rely on my paper map to avoid the Smokies and get a fully loaded beer truck to its destination on time.
A lot of the time we feel rushed to get out the door to start our trip. Take a minute to make a checklist prior to leaving. Having an emergency preparedness bag in your family’s vehicle will help deter any delays in your travel. The bag should have plenty of food, water, extra medication, a flashlight, a spare blanket, baby wipes, a multi-tool, and a separate phone charger. On my last vacation, I was headed to Yellowstone and found myself on the side of the road with two brown bears without any bear repellant, so plan accordingly.
At the end of the day, enjoy your summer! Be safe, have a plan, and always be prepared. If things don’t go your way, stay calm, make necessary adjustments, and enjoy your vacation.