Mr. Jay Ward Associate Director - PowerPoint Presentation

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Mr. Jay WardAssociate DirectorOffice of International ProgramsSan Francisco State University

Faculty-Led Study Abroad ProgramsIssues of Health & Safety AbroadSlide2

ContentsA. A Safe Trip AbroadBefore You Go1. What to Take2. What to Leave Behind

3. What to Learn About Before You Go a). Local Laws & Customs b). Security

c). Health Care

d). Your Itinerary e). Register Your Travel f). Smart Phone App g). Know Local Emergency Numbers Slide3

Contents… h). Credit i). InsuranceC. Passports

D. Create a Safety & Security ChecklistE

. Precautions to Take While Traveling

1. Safety on the Street 2. How to Handle Money Safely 3. How to Avoid Legal Difficulties 4. Drug Violations 5. Photography

6. Road SafetySlide4

Contents… F. Stay Connected with Family & FriendsG

. Be Safe!H. Additional ResourcesSlide5

A Safe Trip AbroadWhen you travel abroad, the odds are you will have a safe and incident-free trip. Nonetheless, personal safety is important to consider while traveling overseas.Even with the best-planned trips, things can sometimes go wrong.Travelers can become victims of crime and violence, or experience unexpected difficulties.Slide6

A Safe Trip Abroad…Though our first goal is to prevent problems, you will also need to be prepared to respond if a problem does occur. You will need to heighten your awareness to ensure your safety and security during your overseas travel experience.To prepare for a healthy and safe experience, inform yourself about your destination and discuss basic health and safety issues with your family and your faculty leader(s).Slide7

A Safe Trip Abroad…There may be occasions when U.S. consular officers are called upon to help U.S. citizens who are in foreign hospitals or prisons, or to assist the families of U.S. citizens who have passed away overseas. We have prepared the following travel tips to help you avoid serious difficulties during your time abroad. We wish you a safe and wonderful journey! Slide8

Before You GoWhat To TakeSafety begins when you pack. To help avoid becoming a target, do not dress in a way that could mark you as an affluent tourist. Expensive-looking jewelry, for instance, can draw the wrong attention.Always try to travel light. You can move more quickly and will be more likely to have a free hand. You will also be less tired and less likely to set your luggage down, leaving it unattended.

Packing checklist from Faculty Leader?Slide9

Before You Go…What To TakeCarry the minimum number of valuables, and plan places to conceal them. When you have to carry them on your person, you may wish to put them each in a different place rather than all in one wallet or pouch.Make hard copies of all your important paperwork; keep copies on your phone. Slide10

Before You Go…What To TakeInside pockets and a sturdy shoulder bag with the strap worn across your chest are somewhat safer. One of the safest places to carry valuables is in a pouch or money belt worn under your clothing. If you wear glasses/contacts, pack an extra pair. Pack them and any medicines you need in your carry-on luggage.

To avoid problems when passing through customs, keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Slide11

Before You Go…What To TakeBring copies of any prescriptions and the generic names for the drugs. Don’t expect that your medications/prescriptions will be readily available overseas!If a medication is unusual or contains narcotics, carry a letter from your doctor attesting to your need to take the drug.

If you have any doubt about the legality of carrying a certain drug into a country, consult the embassy or consulate of that country before you travel.Slide12

Before You Go…What To TakeBring one or two major credit cards instead of a lot of cash.Pack an extra set of passport photos along with a photocopy of your passport’s information/bio page to make replacement of your passport easier in the event it is lost or stolen.

Put your name, address and telephone numbers inside and outside of each piece of luggage. Bring small first aid kit (various bandages, antiseptic, aspirin, cold/allergy medicine, etc.) Slide13

Before You Go…What To TakeAmerican Red Cross (First Aid Kit) http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomy Use covered luggage tags to avoid casual observation of your identity or nationality.

Lock your luggage using TSA approved locks. Slide14

Before You Go…What To Leave BehindDon't bring anything you would hate to lose. Leave at home:Valuable or expensive-looking jewelry;Irreplaceable family

objects;All unnecessary credit cards;Your Social Security card, driver’s license, etc. and similar items you may routinely carry in your wallet

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Before You Go…What To Leave BehindLeave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home in case they need to contact you in an emergency.Make two photocopies of your passport identification page, airline tickets, and the credit cards that you plan to bring with you. Leave one photocopy of this data with family or friends at home; pack the other in a place separate from where you carry the

originals (save a copy on your phone). Slide16

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoLocal Laws and CustomsWhen you leave the United States, you are subject to the laws of the country you are visiting. Therefore, before you go, learn as much as you can about the local laws and customs of the places you plan to visit. Good

resources are the library, your travel agent, and the embassies, consulates or tourist bureaus of the countries you will visit. In addition; Keep track of what is being reported in the media about recent developments in those countries. Slide17

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoLocal Laws & CustomsYour faculty leader may be able to provide you with a reading list with background information on cultural differences, geography, language, political climate, environmental conditions, religious considerations, etc.U.S. DoS website:

http://www.travel.state.gov is an excellent source of country-specific information! Slide18

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoLocal Laws & CustomsHas useful safety and other country-specific information.Learn about the country in which you will be studying & its customs.Learn how to summon help in any emergency.Plan for potential hazards & dangerous conditions.Slide19

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoLocal Laws & CustomsThe U.S. DoS has specific “Background Notes/Country Fact Sheets” with detailed info available at:

http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn Slide20

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoLocal Laws & CustomsRemember that the local legal system may differ significantly from the U.S. and may not afford the protections available to you under U.S. law.Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the U.S. for similar offenses.It is your responsibility to be informed about the legal system of the country(

ies) you will be visiting.Ignorance of the law is no defense to escape liability for violating the law.Slide21

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoLocal Laws & CustomsIf you break local laws while abroad, the U.S. gov’t can do very little to help you.You will not be granted special rights or privileges.The U.S. embassy may assist you in finding legal representation, but if you are accused or arrested for a crime, they cannot intervene on your behalf or get you out of jail.

You (and/or your family) will be responsible for bearing the financial burden of your legal representation & the outcome of any trial.Slide22

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoSecurityThe U.S. Department of State’s “Consular Information Sheets” are available for every country of the world.

Describe entry requirements, currency regulations, unusual health concerns, crime & security situation, political disturbances, areas of instability, & special info about driving & road conditions.Also provide addresses & emergency phone numbers of U.S. consulate/embassy.Slide23

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoSecurityCountry-specific information is available on the DoS website at: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html

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Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoHealth CareThe Centers for Disease Control website (http://www.cdc.gov/) will list required & recommended vaccines/medicines for various countries around the world along with helpful info about how to stay healthy while overseas.Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before

your trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.Slide25

Before You Go…What to Learn About Before You GoHealth CareAdditional vaccines may be required/recommended depending on the country you plan to visit.Visit your doctor & dentist no later than 4-6 weeks before your scheduled U.S. departure for

a complete medical check-up, to receive advice on any required vaccinations, renew prescriptions, etc.Know which health clinics/doctors overseas are recommended and where to go in case of an emergency. Carry contact info with you. Slide26

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoYour ItineraryAs much as possible, plan to stay in larger hotels that have more elaborate security. Safety experts recommend booking a room from the second to seventh floors above ground level – high enough to deter easy entry from outside, but low enough for fire equipment to reach. When there is a choice of airport or airline, ask your travel agent about comparative safety records.Slide27

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoRegister Your TravelAll participants must register with

the “Smart Traveler Enrollment Program” (STEP) --think of it as checking in-- so that you may be contacted if need be, whether because of a family emergency in the U.S., or because of a crisis in the area in which you are traveling.

It

is a free service provided by the State

Department and is available online at https://travelregistration.state.gov Slide28

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoRegister Your TravelWhen you sign-up, you will receive the most current US DoS country-specific information & updates including “Travel Warnings” and “Travel Alerts”

when appropriate.Slide29

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoSmart Phone AppiPhone “Smart Traveler” app is a useful tool to provide easy access to frequently updated official country information, travel alerts, travel warnings, maps, and U.S. embassy locations worldwide.

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Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoSmart Phone App: “Life360”Allows everyone in your group to stay connected with each another.Location/check-in button that allows you to see everyone’s location on a map.

Alert button which sends instant auto text, email & voicemail too every in the group in case of emergency.Chat feature.Excellent location & communication tool!Slide31

Before You Go…KEYNECT UPSF State Emergency Contact Card DownloadSend “SFSUSA” text message to 444999Download V-card

Save to Phone ContactsSlide32

Before You Go…KEYNECT UPSF State Emergency Contact Card DownloadProvides contact info for US State Department, SF State Dean of Students, Foreign Travel Insurance Program emergency assistance & claims infoAllows SF State to send push notifications to travelers in areas of concern (natural disaster, terrorist attack, etc.) requesting the traveler confirm their safety

Important Suggestion: Edit the contact card to add the emergency phone number (911 in US) of your host countrySlide33

SF State Emergency Contact CardSend “SFSUSA” text message to 444999

Download V-cardSave to Phone Contacts

Provides contact information for US State Department, SF State Dean of Students, Foreign Travel Insurance Program emergency assistance and claims information

Allows SF State to send push notification to travelers in areas of concern (natural disaster, terrorist attack, etc.) requesting that the traveler confirm their safety.

Important Suggestion: Edit the contact card to add the emergency phone number (911 in US) of your host institution country

TIP:

If you purchase a new mobile phone in your host country, please download the Emergency Contact Card to your new mobile phone. If you forget the number (444999) to message to receive the download, please email SF State Enterprise Risk Management at

riskmgmt@sfsu.edu

and we will reply with the number. Slide34

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoKnow Local Emergency NumbersKnow how to contact the police, an ambulance, or even the fire department.Not all countries use “911” as the local emergency contact number.Access the list of emergency contact numbers in other countries and store them in your cell phone and/or write them down.Slide35

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoCreditMake a note of the credit limit on each credit card that you bring, and avoid charging over that limit while traveling. Americans have been arrested for innocently exceeding their credit limit while overseas.

Ask your credit card company how to report the loss of your card from abroad. Slide36

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoCredit1-800 numbers do not work from abroad, but your credit card company should have a number that you can call while you are overseas. Inform your credit card company(

ies) that you will be using their card(s) overseas so that your charges are not denied.Keep copies of your credit cards to aid you in obtaining replacements in case they are lost or stolen.Slide37

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoInsuranceFind out if your personal property insurance covers you for loss or theft abroad of any personal items.Will your group be bringing any university equipment with you on your overseas trip? Slide38

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoInsuranceUnderstand the travel insurance policy you will purchase which is designed for travelers, and which covers short-term health and emergency assistance, as well as medical evacuation in the event of an accident or serious illness.

Carry the insurance card with you at all times.Keep a copy of the card with your other important documents.Slide39

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoInsuranceThe CSU’s Foreign Travel Insurance Program provides coverage for unanticipated loss or injury during short-term international travel (emergency medical care, medical evacuation, legal assistance, lost/delayed luggage, or passport replacement). Comprehensive

worldwide assistance is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week for University administrators, faculty, staff, and students. Slide40

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoTravel Insurance – Core CoveragePrimary Accident/Sickness ExpenseEmergency Medical Benefits

Emergency Medical EvacuationGeneral Liability & Excess Auto LiabilityRepatriation of Remains BenefitEmergency

Reunion

Political Evacuations

Accidental Death & DismembermentTrip Cancellation & Interruption BenefitWorldwide Travel AssistanceSlide41

Before You Go…Insurance – What’s not Covered?FTIP is not “health Insurance” or “maintenance” coverage (does not cover routine physicals, exams, etc.)

Your personal property (laptops, camera, valuables) which is often covered by renter’s or homeowner’s insurance (www.lemonade.com)

High Hazard Activities

(including but not limited to off-road motorcycling, scuba diving, jet, snow or water skiing, mountain climbing [where ropes or guides are used], auto racing, bungee jumping, spelunking, white water rafting, surfing, parasailing)Slide42

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoForeign Travel Insurance Program – Accessing It

What If I Have Problems?Contact 24-Hour Access:

ACE Travel Assistance Program

+1 (855) 327-1414 Toll Free

Medassist-usa@axa-assistance.us www.acetravelassistance.net Slide43

Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoInsuranceSummary of Coverage, along with Foreign Travel Information, is available on the SF State Risk Management website at:

http://erm.sfsu.edu/content/foreign-travelForeign Travel Information: http

://

erm.sfsu.edu/content/foreign-travel

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Before You Go…Things to Arrange Before You GoPassports & VisasBe sure to apply for your passport early!https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/apply.html

Your faculty leader(s) will let you know if any type of visa may be required for your trip.We also recommend that your parents each obtain a passport in case they need to travel to you in an emergency situation. Slide45

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate an Overseas Emergency Preparedness PlanIdentify a shelter location nearby your hotel.Identify a location to meet in the event of a building evacuation.Identify a

rally point at which to meet if group becomes separated or is unable to return to hotel.Know who to contact at SF State (ERM) who can coordinate a response to an overseas emergency.Slide46

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate an Overseas Emergency Preparedness PlanShare your emergency plan with all participants and incorporate into your pre-departure and on-site orientations.Faculty leader(s) may want to rent a satellite phone to be used in emergency situations.ERM can be a great resource and can assist faculty leader(s) with developing a plan tailored to your trip. Slide47

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate an Overseas Emergency Preparedness PlanBecome familiar with services & resources available through the U.S. Department of State “Overseas Citizens Emergency

Center” (https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/emergencies.html) Slide48

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate a Safety & Security ChecklistWork with your faculty leader(s) to create a safety & security checklist including:Make sure all participants have each others’ contact information (cell phone number, email address, etc.)! Establish a communication tree in the event of an emergency.

Have basic emergency supplies/first aid kit on-hand.Slide49

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate a Safety & Security ChecklistKeep your passport, plane ticket and other important documents in a safe place – and easily accessible – and keep copies (on your phone too)!Everyone must

be registered with the nearest U.S. embassy via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.Each participant should have a list and contact info of local hospitals, nearest U.S. embassy/consulate, etc.Slide50

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate a Safety & Security ChecklistDevelop an emergency action plan in case you experience an emergency situation; know how to get help.Discuss how the group will handle a medical emergency situation/how to manage such an event.Slide51

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate a Safety & Security ChecklistStudents need to inform the faculty leader(s) of any special health needs, conditions, medications, etc.Participants need to discuss what happens if the faculty leader(s) becomes ill, injured, etc. during the trip.

Identify student leader who can assume leadership role in case faculty leader(s) is unable.Slide52

Before You Go…Things to Do Before You GoCreate a Safety & Security ChecklistIdentify students who may arrive earlier/stay longer to discuss various health/safety and insurance issues with Risk Management.Are there any minors traveling with the group or will everyone be over 21?Is your faculty leader(s) aware of any students with overseas travel experience/foreign language skills? Slide53

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetUse the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home. Be especially cautious in (or avoid) areas where you may be more easily victimized. These include crowded subways, train stations, elevators, tourist sites, market places, festivals and crime-ridden neighborhoods.

Participants should always carry hotel name and address (business card) with them at all times.Slide54

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetDon't use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit streets; only travel in well-lit & frequently traveled areas. Do not travel alone at night; always walk with a friend or companion! Inform others of your plans!Do not travel late at night.Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.

Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments.Slide55

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the Street Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers.Men should avoid placing their wallets in their back pant pocket.Women with purses should hold their purses in front of their person.Inside pockets or pouch/money belts worn inside/under clothing offer the best protection when carrying ID cards, cash, credit cards and other valuables.Slide56

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetWallets and purses that offer RFID protection are the most secure.Be watchful of abandoned bags in public places.Don’t join demonstrations; if large groups of people are gathering, leave the area.Slide57

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetBe aware of your surroundings & belongings at all times.Be extra careful at train, subway or bus stations where thieves prey on visitors & tourists.

Try to blend in with the local population as much as possible.Do not wear identifying clothing such as baseball caps or shirts with identifying information.Above all, be alert and observant!Slide58

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetAvoid scam artists by being wary of strangers who approach you and offer to be your guide or sell you something at bargain prices. Beware of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will: jostle you;

ask you for directions or the time;point to something spilled on your clothing;or distract you by creating a disturbance.Slide59

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetBeware of groups of kids who may create a distraction to pick your pocket. Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers.

If you are confronted, don't fight back -- give up your valuables and get to the nearest safe place.Slide60

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetLearn a few phrases in the local language or have them handy in written form so that you can signal your need for police or medical help. Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Slide61

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetIn the event of a local, regional or global crisis, follow the advice of local authorities and consult with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for security information.If a widespread political or economic crisis should occur, get to a safe place and contact local authorities or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.Slide62

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetDesignate a primary and secondary meeting place in the event of a crisis, if possible.Have a plan for alternative methods of communication.Keep up on current events in the U.S. as they relate to U.S. citizens in your host country.Keep cell phones and computers charged; keep phones

turned on at all times; carry a portable battery/charging device.Slide63

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety on the StreetAvoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.Try to seem purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going.Slide64

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety in Your HotelKeep your hotel door locked at all times. Don’t invite visitors into your room; instead, meet them in the hotel lobby. Important documents (passports, credit cards, extra cash, etc.) should be secured in a safe place where you are staying.

Use the hotel/room safe (if available). If you are out late at night, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.Slide65

Precautions to Take While TravelingSafety In Your HotelIf you are alone, do not get on an elevator if there is a suspicious-looking person inside. Read the fire safety instructions in your hotel room.

Know how to report a fire, and be sure you know where the nearest fire exits and alternate exits are located. (Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit; this could be a lifesaver if you have to crawl through a smoke-filled corridor). Slide66

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Handle Money SafelyAvoid carrying large amounts of cash. Do not flash large amounts of money when paying a bill. Make sure your credit card is returned to you after each

transaction.Slide67

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Handle Money SafelyExchange currency only at authorized agencies or reputable establishments. If your possessions are lost or stolen, report the loss immediately to the local police. Keep a copy of the police report for insurance claims and as an explanation of what happened. Avoid withdrawing cash from ATMs on the street-use ATMs inside banks, when possible.Slide68

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Handle Money SafelyAfter reporting missing items to the police, report the loss or theft of:Credit cards to the issuing company;

Airline tickets to the airline or travel agent;Passport to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.Slide69

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Avoid Legal DifficultiesWhen you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws and are under its jurisdiction. You can be arrested overseas for actions that may be either legal or considered minor infractions in the United States. Familiarize yourself with legal expectations in the countries you will visit.

The DoS Country Specific Information pages include information on unusual patterns of arrests in particular countries, as appropriate. Slide70

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Avoid Legal DifficultiesAlcohol & Drug ViolationsMore than one-third of U.S. citizens incarcerated abroad are held on drug charges. Some countries do not distinguish between possession and trafficking, and many have mandatory sentences – even for possession of a small amount of marijuana or cocaine

. A number of Americans have been arrested for possessing prescription drugs, particularly tranquilizers and amphetamines, that they purchased legally elsewhere. Slide71

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Avoid Legal DifficultiesAlcohol & Drug ViolationsSome U.S. citizens have been arrested for purchasing prescription drugs abroad in quantities that local authorities suspected were for commercial use/resale. If

in doubt about foreign drug laws, ask local authorities or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Slide72

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Avoid Legal DifficultiesAlcohol & Drug ViolationsUse of illegal substances is absolutely prohibited!Anyone caught using illegal substances will be immediately removed

from the program.Penalties for the use of illegal substances in other countries can be much stronger than in the U.S. and there is nothing your faculty leader or the U.S. embassy can do to assist someone caught breaking the laws of the host country. Slide73

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Avoid Legal DifficultiesStudent Conduct While OverseasAny violation of the acceptable standards of conduct could lead to disciplinary actions consistent with CSU Student Discipline Policies & Procedures including, but not limited to, suspension or expulsion from the program!Remember that you are a representative of SF State and the CSU while you are abroad!Slide74

Precautions to Take While Traveling…How to Avoid Legal DifficultiesStudent Conduct While OverseasAdditional information on appropriate SF State Student Conduct including:Academic DishonestyPlagiarismAlcohol Policy

Sexual Misconductcan be found at: http://conduct.sfsu.edu/standardsSlide75

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Avoid Legal DifficultiesPhotographyIn many countries you can be detained for photographing security-related institutions, such as police and military installations, government buildings, border areas and transportation facilities. If you are in doubt, ask permission before taking photographs. Slide76

Precautions to Take While TravelingHow to Avoid Legal DifficultiesLearn About Road SafetyAccording to the U.S. Department of State, road travel is the greatest risk to healthy Americans.In some countries, bad roads and careless drivers are considered top dangers.For info about road and traffic realities abroad, visit the

Association for Safe International Road Travel website.Slide77

Stay ConnectedArrange To Contact Your Family By Appointment, Especially After ArrivalDiscuss communication expectations with your family prior to departure.Stay in touch with your family to reassure them of your safety and whereabouts.If you make plans to call at a certain time, follow through with the appointment so that your family does not worry unnecessarily.

Remember that you may be in a remote location & it may be difficult to anticipate where you will be at all times.Slide78

Stay ConnectedTherefore, discuss in advance what types of communication may be feasible, alternate communication plans if there is an unexpected delay, & how often you will communicate.Be sure to provide your family with your detailed travel itinerary including contact information, travel dates and destinations.Review alternative communication plans with your faculty leader/family if cellular and Internet service are not available.Slide79

Stay ConnectedConnect with SF State & Your Family During a Local or Regional DisasterIn the event of a local emergency (earthquake, flood, etc.), staff at RM/OIP will be in contact with your faculty leader(s) to determine your well-being and whereabouts, and to provide info, instructions & advice.You may also be asked to contact other students in your group, so you may want to establish a telephone tree for

emergencies.Slide80

Stay ConnectedConnect with SF State & Your Family During a Local or Regional DisasterNews about an emergency or disaster in your host country may be broadcast in the U.S. so contact your family when possible to let them know about your well-being.Slide81

Stay ConnectedKnow What to Do and Who to Contact During a Personal EmergencyCarry local emergency numbers (police, fire, ambulance, etc.) and other emergency contact info with you at all times.Slide82

Be Safe!Upon arrival, your faculty leader(s) will conduct an on-site orientation.Check the U.S. embassy website regularly for updates on safety issues, crime, civil disturbances, etc.Slide83

Be Safe!Remember that you are ultimately responsible for the choices you make regarding your safety!Many places abroad are safer than the U.S., but your lack of familiarity with the culture, language, people, etc. may put you at higher risk.Slide84

Be SafeNo orientation can alert you to every potential difficulty, but we hope to have provided you with some background information so that you can make informed decisions, both as you prepare, and while you’re abroad.Ultimately, YOU are the most qualified person to keep yourself HEALTHY and

SAFE. You are about to embark on the experience of a lifetime and we are excited for you! Have a great trip!Slide85

Additional ResourcesAdvice for Safe & Health Travel for Students:http://www.cdc.gov/features/studyabroad/

State Department Students Abroad:Http://studentsabroad.state.gov/

Tips for Safe International Road Travel:

http://www.asirt.org

/State Department International Travel Information:http://

travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html

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Additional Resources…State Department Travel Website:http://travel.state.gov/

Dos Background Notes/Country Fact Sheets:http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/

StudentsAbroad.com Health & Safety Info:

http://

studentsabroad.com/handbook/basic-health-and-safety.php?country=General DoS Tips for Traveling Abroad-Safety Issues:http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html

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Questions?