Portland, OR (June 28, 2010)– School’s out, temperatures are heating up and many families are preparing for summer vacations. Your neighborhood PostalAnnex+ is ready to offer assistance.

“Follow the rules of common sense, so your vacation is as hassle-free as possible,” says Bruce Altizer who owns the PostalAnnex+ on SE Division Street. “For instance, if your luggage goes missing, would you know the names and dosages of prescriptions you need to replace? And what about the credit cards you’re carrying? We can make copies of that information so in the worst-case scenario, you'll have the information you need at your fingertips to get your trip back on track.”

Altizer suggests making duplicates of all travel documents, such as passports and itineraries, as well as medical information like prescriptions and physician contacts. Have a list of credit cards with account numbers and customer service contact information to help speed replacement of lost or stolen items. Then leave photocopies of this info with a family member or trusted friend.

Altizer also recommends having duplicate keys made for the friend or neighbor who will be keeping an eye on your home in your absence. “Vacation holds are convenient, but an interruption in service may be noticed by criminals,” he says. “Keep to a regular schedule, and have a friend pick up your deliveries. Arrange for someone to park a vehicle in your driveway, to give your home a “lived-in” appearance, and have a friend regularly walk around the house, checking for anything that might be out of the ordinary. And never hide a key on your property, because the bad guys know where to look!”

Additionally, Altizer recommends contacting your local law enforcement office to see if it offers courtesy checks of your house while you are away. Their added presence in your neighborhood may help to deter anyone who does not belong there. Other common sense rules to follow:

•    Keep window shades, blinds and curtains in their normal positions.

•    Place timers on several lights throughout your residence.

•    Make sure all door and window locks are in working order.

•    Unplug the cord to the motor of your garage door opener to make it tougher for thieves to gain access.

•    Avoid discussing your absence in public or on the Internet.  There has been a surge of recent home burglaries because information about upcoming trips was posted on social media accounts like Facebook or Twitter.

Be on your way to more relaxed, stress-free travels by making PostalAnnex+ your first stop for copying, passport services and key-duplication. Visit the PostalAnnex+ at 16409 SE Division Street, Suite 216. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm, and Saturday, 9 am to 4 pm. Phone (503) 761-7121 or email pa116@postalannex.com for more information.

About PostalAnnex+
Founded in 1985 and headquartered in San Diego, California, there are nearly 300 PostalAnnex+ locations operating across the United States. All PostalAnnex+ locations are owned and operated by licensed franchisees. For more information on services or for franchise information, please visit www.postalannex.com.

About Annex Brands
Annex Brands, Inc. is a franchisor of the PostalAnnex+, Handle With Care Packaging Store and Sunshine Pack & Ship brands. Formerly known as Postal Annex+, Inc, Annex Brands is headquartered in San Diego, California. Its brands offer shipping and business services such as moving van, freight shipping, small parcel and overnight document delivery services, packaging supplies both online and in-store, private mailbox rental, notary service, high-speed copying in black & white and color, office supplies, web site/e-commerce services, faxing service, printing, stationery, rubber address stamps, key duplication, greeting cards and assorted gift items, all in a convenient, service-oriented environment. To find out more about the company, visit www.annexbrands.com.

 

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