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Telangana Police to Strengthen Hotel Safety
Telangana Police to Strengthen Hotel Safety Protocols
To enhance guest safety in hotels, particularly for women and children, the Telangana police are implementing stricter measures. On September 2, the Women’s Safety Wing of the Telangana police, led by Director General Shikha Goel, convened a meeting with hotel aggregators to discuss the current safety protocols and identify areas for improvement. The meeting highlighted the importance of stringent ID verification, extended CCTV footage storage, and accessible emergency contact information across all hotels in the state.
Focus on Enhanced ID Verification
One of the primary areas of focus during the meeting was improving the process of ID verification for all hotel guests. Shikha Goel emphasized the necessity for hotels to enforce strict ID verification protocols, requiring all guests to present original ID cards at check-in. This step aims to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing hotel facilities and ensure a safer environment for all guests. To standardize this process, hotels will implement a uniform entry register format across all franchise properties, enhancing consistency and accountability.
Extending CCTV Footage Storage Durations
Another critical measure discussed was the extension of CCTV footage storage durations. Currently, many hotels store footage for 30 to 60 days; however, Goel recommended extending this duration to a minimum of 90 days. This extension will allow for more comprehensive monitoring and review of security incidents if they occur. Regular audits, conducted weekly or fortnightly, will be implemented to ensure that all cameras are functioning correctly, providing a reliable record of events within the hotel premises.
Emergency Contact Information Accessibility
Ensuring that emergency contact information is readily available to all guests was also a priority during the discussions. Goel directed hotel management to display emergency contact numbers, such as Dial 100, prominently in guest rooms, reception areas, and common spaces within the hotel. The Women’s Safety Wing will support this initiative by providing stickers and posters that outline these emergency contacts and other safety measures, making it easy for guests to access assistance when needed.
Staff Training and Background Verification
To further enhance guest safety, Goel underscored the importance of regular training for hotel staff, focusing on protocols for protecting guests, particularly women. This training will equip staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to safety concerns. In addition to training, a background verification process for all hotel staff will be implemented, ensuring that only credible individuals are employed within these establishments. This measure aims to build trust between hotel staff and guests, reinforcing the commitment to a safe and secure environment.
Immediate Reporting of Suspicious Activities
Goel stressed the importance of hotels promptly reporting any illegal activities or suspicious behavior observed on their premises. Hotels are encouraged to maintain a close working relationship with local police, ensuring swift action in response to potential threats. This collaborative approach will help mitigate risks and maintain a safe environment for all hotel guests.
Emergency Contacts in Booking Confirmations
In addition to displaying emergency contact information within hotel premises, Goel announced that these details would also be included in booking confirmation emails and SMS notifications. A pop-up message will remind guests to stay vigilant and provide them with instructions on how to seek help in an emergency. This proactive approach ensures that guests have access to critical information before and during their stay.
Continued Collaboration with Hotel Aggregators
The Women’s Safety Wing has committed to ongoing collaboration with hotel aggregators to monitor the effectiveness of these enhanced safety protocols. By working closely with local police officers, the Women’s Safety Wing aims to create a safer environment for all citizens of Telangana. Regular reviews and updates to the protocols will be conducted to adapt to changing safety needs and ensure that the measures remain effective.
Disclaimer:
The information provided here is based on current safety protocols and recommendations from the Telangana police. Guests are advised to remain vigilant and report any safety concerns to hotel management or local authorities immediately.
