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In light of the recent terrorist attacks in India, many people are wondering about hotel safety.

Most travelers will never experience the terror felt in Mumbai, but it’s still a good time to go over some basic safety tips and answer common hotel safety questions.

Are higher floors safer?
Yes, if you’re referring to crime. A traveler is more likely to have something stolen out of their room, and requesting a higher floor means that the perpetrators would have to work harder to get in and out of the building, and risk being seen.

What if there’s a fire or earthquake?
Hotels are usually equipped with sprinkler systems in each room, but emergency rescue is easiest if you choose a room below the fifth floor. It’s wise to choose a hotel that has either been renovated and is up to current fire safety codes, or is a newer hotel in which this is standard–if you do this–then you can choose a higher floor knowing you’re covered in regard to fire and crime. Ironically, if you choose a room near an exit (which would be convenient during a fire) you run the risk of being a crime victim since this is an exit for thieves.

Is my hotel door really safe?
Hotel doors should have a solid core wood or be made of metal. They should also be self-closing and self-locking. Hotels should have a deadbolt lock with at least a one-inch throw bolt. Inspect the door–are there pry marks or are the screws loose? If so, ask for anther room.

Many rooms have a knob-lock on the door with a button to push when you’re inside the room–which blocks all keys, whether it’s housekeeping or a former guest.

What about keyless entries–or card access?
Today, most hotel doors are accessed with an electronic card. These are relatively safe since the last card is zeroed out after the person checks out. Electronic locks are also good because when you’re inside and use the deadbolt, room service and housekeeping can’t get into you room.

But don’t leave your card lying around and be sure to destroy it after you leave–or return it to the desk. Your personal information including your credit card info is stored on that magnetic strip.

Always use the wide-angle peephole before you open the door. If you didn’t call housekeeping or room service don’t answer the door. Call the front desk to confirm.

Join us for Part II of Hotel Safety: Hotel Safety: Are You Prepared for a Disaster?