Safety & Security Abroad

Be aware and alert. Know your surroundings. Act like you know where you are going. Project a confident attitude. Don’t make eye contact. Women: ask another woman for directions. Call a taxi in sketchy areas, and at night. Dress: don’t attract undesirable attention. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to make a scene. Avoid sitting/waiting in empty areas.

US DOS: Department of State Country Information Sheets –U.S. Embassy and/or US Consulate contact info –Health/medical, road/airport conditions, political atmosphere –Crime and security –Illegal drug penalties Travel Warning –Dangerous or unstable conditions –US Embassy Closure or Staff Drawdown Travel Alerts –Short-term conditions posing imminent risks to U.S. citizens –Natural disasters –Terrorist attacks –Coups –Anniversaries of terrorist events –Election-related demonstrations or violence –Work stoppages, strikes, demonstrations –High-profile events such as international conferences or sports events Worldwide Caution

A SAFE TRIP ABROAD Travel Docs lost or stolen passports, etc. Health prescriptions, vaccinations, etc. Emergencies crime victim assistance, etc. Embassies locations Smart Travel packing, women travelers, GLBT travelers, disabilities, etc. Check Lists & Go Guides Voting registering, absentee ballot, etc. News & Alerts travel alerts and warnings

Laws & Customs You are subject to laws of your host country Actions that may be legal or minor infractions in USA may be illegal in your host country. Do not take photographs in security-related areas Drugs Possession marijuana or cocaine Tranquilizers and amphetamines

HTH WORLDWIDE INSURANCE You are covered: –Accident –Sickness –Political Security and Natural Disaster Evacuation Services –Follow HTH Welcome Letter instructions. –Carry HTH ID card with emergency Tel #s Locate your doctor(s) abroad before you leave General Travel Health Drug & Medical Terms & Phrases Translation Guides CityHealth Profiles & Security Profiles International News Alerts

TO HAVE Money & Passport BENEATH your clothing ATM Card(s) Credit Card(s) Extra ID photos Passport Copies (signature/photo page) Medication supply entire semester Mobile phone (contract) “Pay as you go” (no contract) There are many options!

Leave behind… Jewelry, designer bags, irreplaceable valuables Unnecessary items (social security card) Uncomfortable shoes Clothing you don’t typically wear Items you can acquire abroad

Riskiest places to use credit cards Non-bank-owned ATMs Flea markets Small shops/cafes abroad Non-secure on-line check-out WiFi hotspots and public computers Recurring bills and subscriptions Purchases on smart phones Unsolicited offers Strange and foreign domain extension Suspect swipe terminal

Safe Behavior Be discreet: with strangers and what they may overhear. Do not discuss personal matters – yours or others. Minimize time in airports & train stations. Avoid revealing luggage tags, dress, baseball caps, and behaviors that identify you as American. Avoid large gathering places. Keep RD or friends informed of travel plans Don’t invite strangers to room or apartment Residence LOCKED AT ALL TIMES especially when you’re there.

Finally… Local support staff can help. Orientation is MANDATORY Family stay in touch: I’m OK; you’re OK! MIP We’re here for you too. Emergency: HTH benefits; share your phone # Independence remember what you told us…. “Peoples is Peoples”