Airport safety: How do you stay safe on your next flight?
The busiest airport in the world is also one of the world’s most dangerous places to be: in 2016, 8,965 people lost their lives. Of course, there are plenty of other places that are just as dangerous. But FCO is particularly susceptible to risky activities. For example, there are thousands of drones flying overhead, and passengers often come in with unrealistic expectations from the airport. After reviewing nearly a hundred articles and books, we’ve compiled a list of the safest ways to travel through airports. While some will seem obvious, others may be new and surprising. Check out our list to see how you can keep yourself safe on your next flight.
Use maps of the airport
One of the most important things you can do is to use airport maps. They are free and available online or in person at the airport. To make this easier, many airports offer a “Journey Planner” where you enter your origin and destination, and then choose from a number of different routes to get there. This will give you a map of all your options, as well as the walking times and distances.
Avoid carrying large sums of money
Many airports, especially those in developing countries, have an unofficial way of doing business. For example, in the arrivals hall of Rome’s FCO airport, you’ll find money changers and beggars looking for alms. If you are carrying a large sum of money as you walk through the airport, it is not uncommon for someone to try to relieve you of your burden. There is no need to carry large sums of money with you when you are traveling. Instead, keep cash or credit cards on hand that are enough for any purchases you need to make during your trip. If a traveler needs more money during their trip, they should withdraw money from an ATM near the airport or take some cash from the airline’s ATM before going through security.
Stay hydrated
If the air becomes drier and oxygen levels drop, your body may go into “fight or flight” mode and start producing adrenaline. This in turn leads to an increased heart rate and higher blood pressure. To avoid this “fight or flight” response and its adverse effects, drink plenty of water before traveling. Always carry a bottle of water with you during your trip.
Do not overheat
When traveling, it’s important to stay cool. Airports are often notorious for their heat, which can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. And as we all know, dehydration is one of the main causes of health crises. So, it’s crucial that you stay hydrated and don’t overheat. If you feel sick or overheated, there is a medical service at each airport that can help you. Also, avoid caffeine, which will only lead to more dehydration.
Be wary of strangers
It sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s also worth mentioning in this list. It’s always best to be wary of strangers who come up to you and ask for help. They may have nefarious intentions, so it is better not to come into contact with them. If a stranger does make contact, keep your distance and be polite; If the person persists, call the police.
Check Airport Security Status
You should check the security status of the airport you are flying from before passing through the terminal. This is especially important if you are visiting a foreign country. You can check the TSA’s website or download the MyTSA app to stay informed of any changes.
Final Words: Stay Safe While Traveling
Traveling through the airport can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. But with these tips, you can make your trip as safe as possible. We hope you enjoyed our list and that you can travel with peace of mind in the future!