Don't go missing on your next trip.

• Position: Travel Safety

According to the FBI's National Crime Information Center, as of Dec. 31, 2016, there were more than 88,000 active files on people who are missing in the country. Of the current active missing persons' cases, 38% of them are under age 18, and 48% are under 21.

The Department of State strongly encourages citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness when traveling. In addition, Alcatraz East, a new crime museum in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., offers these tips to travelers--both domestic and abroad:

* Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.

* Know your surroundings and stay in control of every situation. Look and act confident, like you know where you are going. Do not appear lost or confused; find a person in authority or business from whom you can ask for directions.

* Never flash money in public. Exchange funds with reputable and recognized exchangers only.

* Do not discuss travel plans, your room number, or any other personal information in public within...