Human trafficking happens all year long.

During the summer, however, travel and activities increase and victims’ advocates are encouraging residents to become familiar with the signs of human trafficking, which could possibly save those who are otherwise hidden behind closed doors.

“There’s a higher level of activity at this time of year,” said Sharman Davenport, president and CEO of Turning Point, a nonprofit agency providing services and programming to help men and women who fall prey to human trafficking.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who has led state initiatives to combat human trafficking, remarked that bringing light to the crime can be a major deterrent.

“Human trafficking is a heinous and pervasive crime, often hidden in plain sight,” Nessel said, in a news release. “Raising awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have. By learning to recognize the signs and sharing that knowledge with others, we can all play a role in combating trafficking in our state.”

Davenport believes the public has become more educated.

“They are more aware of human trafficking and the fact that it can and does occur in their city,” she said.

What many might not know is human trafficking can take on many forms. There’s sexual exploitation often reported in the news but also labor trafficking. This can be found in many different markets that consumers might not suspect, such as convenience stores, nail salons, massage parlors, agriculture, farming and restaurants. In many cases, workers do not even realize they are victims of human trafficking.

According to the AG’s office victims of human trafficking may:

• Show signs of abuse, including bruises, cuts, burns, scars, or lack of health care or proper nourishment;

• Not be in control of their own money or identifying documents, such as their driver’s license or passport;

• Avoid eye contact with others and appear fearful of the person they’re with;

• Not be allowed to communicate on their own behalf or may have their communication restricted. Another person may answer all questions on their behalf; or

• Not admit they are victims or ask for help.

“Anyone who suspects that someone is a victim of human trafficking can call us,” Davenport said, noting that they also have a hotline number that they can pass along to someone who might have a friend in need of help.

Turning Point’s crisis line at 586-463-6990 operates 24/7.

But if they go to a massage parlor and see sexual activity Davenport suggests they call the police.

Handling many of the calls is the Macomb County Anti-Trafficking Taskforce, a countywide collaborative that works to educate the community, prosecute offenders; and protect and advocate for survivors of human trafficking.

“We’re seeing more cases brought to trial,” said Davenport, whose nonprofit has created services designed specifically for human trafficking as part of the collaborative’s efforts.