Be alert to your surroundings. Only use a well-lit, secure rest stop. Avoid travel areas where anything looks out of the ordinary.
If you're planning to pull over and take a nap, lock your doors. Do not let your engine run for any length of time; carbon monoxide fumes are deadly.
Police report some rest areas are prone to criminal activity with stolen vehicles found there as well as fugitives. Drug and sex trafficking are also concerns.
Many rest stops provide family rest rooms. Never assume your child is safe entering a strange toilet facility without an escort.
If the rest area you are visiting is particularly isolated and you're making a night stop, keep going. Find a fast food restaurant or convenience store and use their facility instead.
Keep your cell phone with you when at a rest stop. Call 911 if you encounter an emergency situation or need to report a crime.
