Safety Tips

A. General

• pay close attention to warnings and follow directives issued by local program administrators regarding safety and security issues
• stay abreast of news and current events, and get your news from more than one source (preferably from both U.S. and local ‘foreign’ media)
• report any unusual or threatening behavior in or near program and residential facilities
• maintain a list of emergency phone numbers and carry them with you
• maintain a low profile on the street and in public facilities
• avoid political discussions with strangers
• where possible, avoid institutions that might be associated with American governmental or corporate interests, or might serve as symbols of same  (e.g. embassies, resorts catering to Americans, US military installations, Hard Rock Café, McDonald’s, etc.)

B. Extracurricular Travel Precautions

• make sure that someone – preferably a program administrator – knows where you are going and when you plan to return every time you travel on your own or in small groups
• avoid solo travel
• carefully research security issues associated with your planned route, your stopovers, and your destination
• discuss your trip with someone who is familiar with the area or region
• research alternative modes of transport if your primary mode breaks down
• make photocopies of your passport, other forms of identification (e.g. student ID) and travel documents (e.g. tickets) and leave copies in a safe place while you are away
• discuss with friends a place where you all might meet in the event of an emergency situation; backup plans are also recommended

We may pass along additional recommendations at some point later in the semester.  If you have any questions about all of this don't hesitate to contact us directly.