While New England is not a high-crime destination and violent crime tends to be concentrated in a few urban neighborhoods, travelers should use common sense to protect themselves and their belongings. Here's how:

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1. Carry valuables such as money, travelers checks, credit cards, passports, and visas close to you.
2. Do not leave valuables in your hotel room while sightseeing. Many hotels provide safes for securing personal items.
3. Do not leave purchases or luggage visible in your car.
4. Be sure to lock your doors when you park.
5. Be alert to your surroundings, and stay in areas where others tend to congregate.
6. Obey safety belt laws. All New England states except New Hampshire require driver and front seat passenger to wear seatbelts.
7. When walking or driving, especially at night, stay in busy, well lit areas.
8. In most of New England, dial 911 from any telephone to access the emergency response system. If 911 service is not available, dial 0 and an operator can connect you to the appropriate emergency services.
9. Be sure to fill your car with gas if you will be exploring remote areas.

1. Acquire a good map of the area you will be visiting. Ask for directions before setting out.
2. Be sure not to leave your hotel keys in your hotel room door at night.
3. My mother always tells me in the fall to "watch out for wet leaves and deer." Wet leaves can create a driving and walking hazard. And deer can cause highway accidents, whether or not they're wet!
   

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