The following is guidance used and provided by NETS member companies regarding safety and security when traveling in foreign countries. You may use as is or adapt to fit the guidelines or policies of your organization.

Trip Preparation Be sure your luggage tags contain your name, phone number, and full street address. Be sure this information is concealed from casual observation; and that company logos are not displayed on luggage. Make sure to have name(s), address(es), and telephone numbers of the office you are visiting. Plan to obtain a small amount of local currency. If you do not speak the local language, have the name and address of each place you may want to go placed on a 3x5 card in that language. Show it to the taxi drivers if they do not understand English.

In Transit Include in your carry-on luggage a supply of any regularly taken prescription medicines (in original containers labeled with the pharmacy name and prescribing physician), an extra pair of eyeglasses and passport. Dress inconspicuously to blend into the international environment. Consider wearing no jewelry. Memorize your passport number so you do not have to reveal your passport when filling out customs and immigration forms.

Local Transportation In high risk locations, use transportation arranged by the local affiliate. (Travelers who make their reservations through a travel management company will most likely be notified that they have booked travel to a designated high-risk location.) If you have been assigned a driver, verify the driver’s identification.

Hotels Use hotels recommended by the local affiliate. These will normally be the most modern with better security and safety measures. Upon check-in, be discreet as possible when disclosing information about yourself. Be aware of those around you that might overhear. Request a new room if the clerk announces your room number and then have them write the number down on your room key envelope.

Street Smarts Trust your instincts, if it does not feel right, act. Do not carry any political, religious or other materials that may be offensive or even illegal in the country you are visiting. Know the “dress codes” of the country or region you are visiting. Do not photograph anything that appears to be associated with military or internal security of the country, including airports, ports, or military installations or government buildings. Invest in a good map of the area. Note significant points such as your hotel, embassies, and police stations. Make mental notes of alternative routes to your hotel or facility.

Street Smarts Be alert for persons watching your movements. Purse snatchers frequent hotel bars and restaurants waiting for unknowing persons to drape items on chairs or under tables. Keep items in view or “in touch.” Be alert to scams involving an unknown person spilling a drink or food on your clothing. An accomplice may be preparing to steal your purse, wallet, or briefcase. Never resist an armed robbery. Carry some cash to appease muggers who may resort to violence upon finding no reward for their efforts.

Consult with security beforehand. Register with your Embassy or Consulate upon arrival, even if your stay is short. Travel with others when possible. Avoid utilizing well-known British and U.S. hotels Considerations for High-Risk Locations

Group Travel Arrange for 2 assembly points in the event of emergency. All parties in the group should know where these locations are and how to get there. Create a list of contact telephone numbers – everyone should carry it with them at all times. Know the group’s schedules. When separated, check in regularly.

Civil Unrest If you encounter a protest: Do not become involved Do not stay and watch Do not take sides or attempt to gather information. Exit the area

Lost or Stolen Passport Contact your embassy or consulate for assistance. If stolen, be sure to notify the local police department and security. You will need to speak to the American Citizens Services unit of the Consular Section. Having a photo copy of your passport will make getting a new passport easier since your citizenship and identity information would be more readily available. U.S. passports are not routinely issued by U.S. embassies and consulates abroad on weekends and holidays when the embassy/consulate is closed. All U.S. embassies and consulates have an after hours duty officer available to assist with life or death emergencies of U.S. citizens abroad. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate after hours duty officer for assistance if you have an emergency need to travel.