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Tips for Avoiding Problems
- Ensure someone locally knows where you are going and when you are expected to return so they can notify the authorities if you are missing. It is also a good idea to contact your family/emergency contact regularly (establish a pattern), and to give them the phone number of someone you know locally in case they need to follow up.
- Whether you are on foot or in a car, be aware of your environment and those around you so you can anticipate potential problems.
- If you detect that an approaching person or situation could be problematic, get out of harm’s way by making a radical or abrupt change in your speed or direction.
- There is safety in large groups, so try to walk with others, especially at night.
- Avoid enclosed places where someone could be hidden or where there are limited escape routes.
- Don’t make yourself a target. Avoid wearing conspicuous clothing, expensive jewelry or using high-priced electronics.
- When you go out, make sure you know how to get home, and have the means to get home safely.
- Always use a regulation taxi and insist on using the meter or negotiating the price up front. If you are in a place for a longer period of time make arrangements with a local taxi company or driver you trust.
- Do not leave your bags or belongings unattended at any time and do not agree to carry or look after packages or suitcases for anyone. If you must transport an item, unwrap it, open it up and examine it thoroughly before packing it.
- Don’t put all of your important documents and money together in one place. Never put money, important documents or prescription medications in checked luggage
- Have sufficient funds or a credit card on hand to purchase emergency items but also don’t carry excessive amounts of cash or any unnecessary credit cards.
- Keep informed of current political situations, and listen for advisories.
- Learn to do what the locals do, including areas to avoid, places that are safe, where to walk, shop, and any other important information.
- Don’t take valuables when you go out and try to carry as little cash as possible.
- Make sure you know how to use the telephone and have a calling card or other means of using the telephone in the country(s) that you visit.