SAFETY TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS

When abroad...

Don’t drink the water.
Often the punch line of jokes, it's true nonetheless. Do yourself and your stomach a favor; drink only purified water (this includes ice cubes) and cooked foods (including fruits and vegetables).

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid becoming an easy target.
Crime is everywhere, even in Utopia. Don’t invite it by acting or even looking like a tourist. Carry only the essentials with you and leave the jewelry and designer pocketbook back in the hotel room or safe. Try to fit in with your new surroundings without drawing attention to yourself. To travel globally, first think locally! When driving, roll up your windows to within a few inches of the top. When parking, seek a well-lit area and always lock your doors. Remember: you’re on vacation, crime isn’t.

Time management can get your trip off to a great start.
Don’t rush. Pack days in advance but pay attention to details. Travel light. Dot your "I’s" (itinerary) and cross your "T’s" (transportation) for a successful trip.

Money makes the world go ‘round.
Understand the currency and rate of exchange in the country you intend to visit. That way, you’re sure not to over-pay or fall victim to a black market scam. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are almost universally accepted, but smaller foreign establishments may want only cash. Keep your credit cards separate from your cash; if one source of funds is lost or stolen, you will have a back-up.

Take a medical kit with you.
Don’t leave home without aspirin, bandages, insect repellent, sunscreen and antacids among other over-the-counter medications. Mild cases of diarrhea are the scourge of most travelers so bring along some anti-diarrheal medication. Pack an extra pair of eyeglasses, contacts and sunglasses. Also bring any prescription drugs you may need. It’s best to get prescriptions refilled just before leaving on your trip. If it’s a longer trip, you may want your doctor to write a spare prescription under a generic name. Remember to carry all prescriptions in their original packaging.

Schedule a health check-up.
A pre-trip health check, complete with inoculations and a dental check-up, are a must for any traveler. Travelers who have diabetes should consult with their physician before leaving on a trip. Pay special attention to local regulations concerning syringes and insulin transportation. No one plans to get sick when traveling, but if it happens, you’ll be prepared. Remember the wise old words of statesman (and world traveler) Ben Franklin, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

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International SOS is the world's leading medical and security assistance company with a dedicated, full time staff of more than 3,000 professionals including 250 physicians operating in 23 Alarm Centers and 21 International Clinics around the world, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. From medical evacuations to travel safety assistance, our mission is to help SOS members stay safe and healthy while traveling or living abroad.