Security and Health
1. Security Tips
Make sure you know the escape route from your hotel room in case of fire. Secure your door with a chain and use the peephole to confirm the identity of anyone who knocks. Keep valuables in the room- or hotel-safe. Keep a separate copy of your credit card numbers and the helpline numbers in case of loss or theft.
2. Crime
Contrary to what foreigners may surmise from US television dramas, the incidence of thefts, muggings, murder, and other mayhem is low in the US in general, and even lower in New England. Nonetheless, don’t court trouble. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas such as Boston Common late at night. Know where you are going, and walk purposefully. Keep only small amounts of cash in your pockets. If confronted by a mugger, give up your money promptly.
3. Police
If you are stopped by the police, you are entitled to see official identification. Answer any questions truthfully, calmly, and cooperatively. American police are generally armed with guns or electric shock weapons, but most officers go through their careers without ever using them.
4. Emergency Phone Number
For police, fire, or ambulance, dial 911. Stay on the line even if you are unable to speak so that the emergency locator system can track you. Emergency calls are free.
5. Crossing Roads
In theory, pedestrians on a marked crosswalk always have the right of way, but don’t count on drivers, especially those making turns, to stop for you. Also beware of bicyclists, since many do not follow the traffic rules. Be careful crossing roads at night or in bad weather, especially if your clothes do not make you visible to oncoming traffic. Your mother was right: look both ways before crossing.
6. Insect-borne Diseases
Three insect-borne infectious diseases have been reported in New England: Lyme disease, eastern equine encephalitis, and West Nile virus. Chances for exposure are slim. Lyme disease is usually spread by tick bites; the others by mosquitoes. Use insect repellent, and keep arms, legs, and ankles covered.
7. Sun Care
New England’s relatively high latitude is no protection against sunburn at any time of the year. Avoid prolonged exposure, especially during the summer, and wear sunscreen of at least SPF 15.
8. Hypothermia
Chilling of the body below normal range, or hypothermia, is more common in New England in summer than winter. Most people dress warmly for cold weather, but many do not realize how quickly they can lose body heat to cold water. Swimming in cold ocean water can be refreshing on a hot day, but you should leave the water if you become chilled. A common first sign of hypothermia is blue lips; if you have them, get to a warm place, bundle up, and drink hot liquids.
9. Prescriptions
It’s always a good idea to bring extra medications with you, but you should also carry a copy of your prescriptions. Ask your hotel to refer you to the nearest pharmacy.
10. Water Quality (Swimming)
Ocean and lake waters are generally clean throughout New England, though ocean beaches are sometimes closed due to runoff after storms or to the annual algae bloom known as “red tide,” which produces a toxin. Beach waters are tested regularly; any closures will be prominently posted.
