Safety & Evacuation Planning

When we hear someone discuss the topic of safety abroad, we immediately think about the crime rate in his or her native country. While there are certainly many aspects of personal safety that are unique to the expatriate experience, the fact is that many of the recommendations made by security experts should be followed regardless of whether you are living overseas or at home.

For example, guidelines include very basic tips:

1.) Be aware of your surroundings and who is around you.

2.) Make sure you are familiar with the routes you travel.

3.) Stick to well-lit streets that have many other people present.

Doesn't this seem like this would be good advice even in your home country when you visit a large metropolitan area? If you combine common sense with the right amount of country and culture-specific homework, you'll minimize your chance of any unpleasant events while you are abroad.

In many countries, you will be advised to have an evacuation plan due to the threat of terrorism, political unrest and natural disasters. There are companies that specialize in establishing evacuation plans and arranging evacuation services. Even if you or your company decides against the enlistment of such services, you should have a plan in the event of an emergency.

Some important considerations include:

Register with and know how to communicate with and get to your nearest consulate or embassy.

Check the Web site of your consulate or embassy regularly for security updates.

Keep your travel documentation - passport and visas - with you as recommended by your local consulate or embassy. This usually includes photocopying your passport in order to accelerate the replacement process should it be lost or stolen.

In addition to your documents, prepare a lightweight evacuation kit that includes food, water and any other essential items necessary to get you from your place of residence or employment to an evacuation point. Carry it with you when the security situation dictates it.

Learn as much about the country and culture as possible, including the basics of the language. The more you know in an emergency situation, the better off you will be.

Evaluate ALL of the communications and transportations options you have, and keep in close contact with those that monitor them should the security situation in your country of residence deteriorate.

Go over your evacuation plan with all of your family members to ensure that they know what to do in the event of an emergency.

Regardless of the preparations you make, there are no guarantees for your safety in any country. It's important to assess the country in which you choose to live on a regular basis, and to take necessary precautions in the future to remain prepared. Some expatriates get settled into their new country and become lulled into a false sense of security - even after their government has recommended that they leave. And sometimes these people are fine, but sometimes they are kidnapped, injured or killed. It can't be stressed enough - the more you prepare yourself for life overseas, the more likely you'll avoid all kinds of problems and make the right decisions.

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