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Safety Information

Safety is a primary concern at this time for everyone. Here are sites you can visit to check on what the US, the UK, and Canada are suggesting to their citizens, and some general advice on safe travel:

The US State Department

The US State Department offers an important new service on its website (http://travel.state.gov): registering US citizens with US embassies and consulates while abroad via the web. While your program should register you at the local embassy/consulate once you arrive, it’s a good idea to do this yourself so that the local embassy or consulate can apprise you of any security or other concerns that arise while you are abroad.

Select “Register my trip” at: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/register_trip.asp?rn=385188

Register as a Short-Term Traveler if you’ll be abroad for less than six months, or as a Long-Term Traveler/Overseas Resident if you’ll be abroad for six months or more.

 

March 2007
UK Travel Advice by Country
Canadian Government Travel Reports
State Department's page on Travel in Sub-Saharan Africa
CDCs' Travellers' Health page
Traveler's Vaccines page
A Safe Trip Abroad
Safeti Clearinghouse Online Newsletter
Universal Emergency Telephone Number

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

  1. Do not leave your bags or belongings unattended at any time. Security staff in airports and train stations are instructed to remove or destroy any unattended luggage. Do not agree or carry or look after any packages or suitcases for anyone. Make sure no one but you puts anything in your luggage.
  2. Don’t keep all your documents and money in any one place. It’s best to carry your travel documents and some money on your person in a place inaccessible to others – even when you go to the bathroom on the plane. Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa separate from the original.
  3. If you find yourself in uncomfortable surroundings, try to look as if you know what you’re doing, and stay in well-populated areas. Try not to draw unnecessary attention to yourself. Always show respect for the culture and laws of other countries.
  4. Use caution when traveling alone. Women especially should not walk alone at night. Be responsible for your safety and well-being. Learn from locals what behavior might put you at risk.
  5. Keep the on-site director(s) informed of your whereabouts and any health problems. When you travel, be sure that someone knows where you are and how to reach you.
  6. Have cash or credit card on hand for emergencies like illness or an unexpected need to get home.
  7. Be alert to your surroundings and the people with whom you have contact. Be wary of people who seem overly friendly or interested in you. Be cautious with new acquaintances – don’t give out your address or phone number, and always meet in public places. Be discreet in giving out information about other students or group events. Report unusual activity near your classes or home to the program director.
  8. Don’t hitchhike, even if the locals do.

In times of political conflict involving the United States, these additional precautions are advisable:

  1. Stay apprised of the current political situation by listening daily to the television or radio news. In the event of emergency, advisories may be made to the general public through the media. In this situation, stay in contact with the on-site staff, who then can contact authorities locally and at home, as well as parents and Wesleyan.
  2. The on-site director should register all participants with the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, and students should be sure they are so registered.
  3. In large cities or popular tourist destinations, spend as little time as possible in potential targets for terrorist activities, especially places frequented by Americans: bars, discos, fast-food restaurants and stores associated with the US, branches of US banks, American Express, and US consulates and embassies.
  4. Keep away from areas known to have concentrations of residents aligned with interests unfriendly to the US and its allies. Always consult with the on-site director before making travel plans.
  5. Be inconspicuous in dress and demeanor. Avoid American logos and name brands on clothing and belongings. Avoid large or noisy groups. Do not flash money or bring out documents (especially your passport) in public places. Keep small bills in your pockets to pay for purchases.
  6. Keep away from political demonstrations, particularly those directed toward the US. If you see a situation developing, resist the temptation to satisfy your curiosity or join the crowd. Walk away. Do not agree to newspaper or other media interviews regarding political conflicts.
  7. Make a personal communication plan with your family and decide on methods of contact should an emergency arise. Ask your on-site program director about program emergency/contingency plans.