Study Abroad at UMM

Your Window to the World

Safety

Remember that the first rule of travel is common sense - if it doesn't fee safe, it probably isn't

The odds are in your favor that you will have a safe trip, however, crime and violence against Americans does happen

Safety begins when you pack

• Dress conservatively
• Avoid appearing affluent

Carry very little that is valuable

• Avoid handbags, fanny packs or outside pockets
• Use a pouch or money belt under your clothing
• Carry a decoy purse/wallet with very little in it

When you leave the United States, you are subject to the laws of the country you are in and are no longer protected by the US Constitution

• Learn the laws of the country you are in (www.lonelyplanet.com)
• More than 1/3 of U.S. citizens jailed abroad are held on drug charges

Keep track of recent developments in the country you are in

Know the hour of the subway and when the buses run and stop running

Use the same common sense traveling overseas as you would at home

• Don't use shortcuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit street
• Avoid walking alone
• Avoid public demonstrations
• Keep a low profile
• Don't discuss your travel plans with strangers
• Beware of pickpockets
• Know how to use the pay phones
• If you are confronted, don't fight back

Lock your room and don't leave any valuables there

Read the fire instructions in your residence

Carry a variety of payment methods, the safest being travelers checks

Change traveler's checks only as you need cash

• Keep travelers checks receipts in your luggage in case of theft

Carry small amounts of cash for small expenses like cab fare

Keep purses and bags facing into your body and always keep a hand on the strap

Hold bags tight when in crowded places, especially the metro or underground

Never let your passport out of your sight

Carry a cash card to avoid overabundance of money in your wallet

• ATM's can be found everywhere
• Check with your cash card company on procedures in foreign countries or if your card can only be used in certain machines

Report theft immediately to the authorities

If you become ill or are injured, contact the U.S. embassy for a list of medical facilities

If you get in legal difficulty, contact the consulate immediately

Keep a card with your doctor's name and contact information and a list of your medications and allergies with you at all times

Study street maps of your destination in advance of your travel

Ask about unsafe areas to avoid

Some phone numbers to carry with you

• Airline customer service
• Insurance for medical and auto
• U.S. consulate and embassy
• Relatives at home
• Car/shuttle service

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Last Modified: Monday, November 5, 2001
Page URL: http://www.morris.umn.edu/cerp/abroad