The next installment in our Resource Series is one that hopefully everyone will read and relate to: tips on safety! No matter where you are in the world, it is important to know what to do to stay safe, and what resources to access in the case of an emergency.
Keep your money and important belongings in a safe place
Don’t carry important items like your passport with you wherever you go, and try not to carry much cash. If you need to carry valuable items with you for some reason, buy a lock or small safe for your bag to keep them safely inside! Otherwise, leave valuables locked up in a safe space in your room.
Don’t look lost
Even though you might be aimlessly wandering a foreign city, try to look like you know where you’re going. If you are lost, find a public place, like a restaurant or shop, where you can ask for directions.
Don’t draw unwanted attention to yourself
Different cultures can be more quiet and subdued, so don’t be the loudest or craziest person around. Pay attention to what locals are doing, and act the same way. This way, you won’t receive any unwanted attention from potentially dangerous people or situations.
- Similarly, follow the laws of your host country! Many countries have strict laws, so be sure to abide by them to stay out of trouble.
Check out the U.S. Department of State website!
They have a lot of information on what to do during any unsafe situation, ranging from small problems, like if your personal belongings are stolen, to major emergencies, like if you need to evacuate a city.
Know where the nearest U.S. embassy is
In case of an emergency, you should go to the U.S. embassy closest to you.
For additional information, check out our Pre-Departure Orientation Manuals for faculty-led programs and for all other programs.
If you have any questions on how to handle a specific situation, you can always ask our office by calling (410) 704-2451, or emailing studyabroad@towson.edu.