Q: After many years working near home, this season my job will require a lot of traveling. I look forward to seeing new places, but am concerned about hotels. I’ve heard a lot of horror stories about dirty and unsafe hotel rooms. What can I do to ease my fears?

Jeanne K., Milwaukee WI

A: Personal security should be your first priority, and a few simple precautions will keep you safe in your hotel. Don’t ride elevators alone nor go to the hotel garage after midnight. Ask a hotel guard to go with you.

Don’t open your hotel room door for anyone you don’t know. If it’s a hotel employee outside, phone check with the front desk before you let anyone in. When in the room, lock the door both with the bolt and security bar. If you don’t want the maid to come in, always hang the DO NOT DISTURB sign outside your door.

When going into your room, note the sign showing emergency exits. Also check to be sure the smoke detector is operating.

For cleanliness, if your room doesn’t look absolutely clean when you enter, call the desk and demand another one. Even with clean rooms, some frequent travelers carry small cans of Lysol or other disinfectant to spray all bathroom fixtures.

Good luck in your new job!