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Published on November 28, 2007

Even in technologically advanced and rich countries, chances of facing danger to life and property are still there. Apart from the threat of terrorism, the rising cost of living is another reason for this problem to spread.

 I have travelled all around the world and I used to feel safe when visiting Germany and Japan. But after the unification of Germany, the crime rate increased. Although it is still not so high, it is higher than in the past.

 Same goes for Japan, the country that I like most after Thailand. According to news reports, the crime rate is rising in Japan, and part of it is due to illegal immigrants as well as domestic problems.

 Thailand is no different from other countries, and there is crime in this country. So for the festive season, I would like to remind motorists and other travellers about safety and how to prevent accidents from happening.

 At least one week before a long trip, you should have the car checked, starting with all the tyres (spare tyre included). See whether the tyres are in good condition and whether there are any signs of damage or cuts.

 Then check the tyre pressure (you should inflate an additional two pounds per inch for long drives) then bring out the jack and see whether it works. In case you have a puncture and need to use the spare wheel, the jack needs to work.

 Then check whether the braking system works properly, and then the cooling system. Then look at the lighting system (both the low and high beams), including the rear lights (brake and turning lights). It would also be very helpful if you could bring along some additional fuses for the trip.

 Once you arrive at the destination and check into a hotel or resort room, check whether every door and window is properly closed. Sometimes the housekeeper may not have closed them properly after cleaning up the room.

 Also open the window and look outside to see if there is any weakness in terms of safety, such as whether there is a walkway to your room. Also check how the surrounding is and think about how can get away if a problem occurs. Also check the ceiling for any irregularities. Many times it has been found that the ceiling has an opening for the repair of electrical or other systems, and this opening is also a door for crimes.

 For connecting rooms, check if you can lock your side of the door. If your room has too many weak points for crime to happen, you have the right to ask for a new room.

 Also check the hotel plan in case of any emergency. Most people who stay in hotels have no idea where to proceed if there is a fire. Some don't know which direction the emergency exit is and some can't even remember which way it is to the elevator in normal conditions.

 When you fly, listen to the safety instructions in case an emergency happens. Only 5 per cent of airline passengers actually listen to the flight crew, who usually act like dummies during the safety demonstration.

 These are the basics of safety that you should follow when travelling to any part of the world. Just make it a habit, like switching off the engine while refuelling your car and you'll be safe always.

By Pattanadesh Asasappakij

The Nation

 E-mail your motoring questions to Pattanadesh@nationgroup.com.

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