Surviving an emergency abroad

May 09, 2018

You’re about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. The last thing you want to think about is an overseas emergency, but it’s good to be prepared. While it may seem like the world is more dangerous than ever, we’re actually living in what might be the most peaceful period in human history. In other words, there’s never been a safer time to travel.

Chances are nothing will happen on your trip, but earthquakes, hurricanes, political upheaval and civil unrest do happen. Whether you’re dealing with the inconvenience of a rail workers’ strike or something more serious, taking a few precautions before you leave can ease your mind.

Get a pre-trip destination report

Worldwide destination intelligence is available through your SafeTrip Travel Protection plan. These profiles draw on the UHC Global intelligence database of more than 170 countries and 280 cities and include intelligence from thousands of worldwide sources. You’ll find valuable information about everything from health and security risks, immunizations and vaccinations to crime, emergency phone numbers, entry and exit requirements, weather and more.

Memorize your information

When traveling in a foreign country, it’s not always easy to remember where you’re staying. Write down the address and phone number of your hotel and carry it with you while traveling. Also keep your SafeTrip Travel Protection ID card on your person for ready access in case you need to make an emergency call.

Emergency planning should be part of every traveler’s checklist. Having the latest information about your destination and knowing you’re prepared for anything that could happen will help you enjoy your trip that much more. Safe travels.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that lets U.S. citizens traveling abroad enroll with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Stay informed.

With STEP, you’ll receive important information about safety conditions in your destination country, so you can make informed decisions about your travel plans.

Stay connected.

The information you provide in STEP makes it easier for U.S. embassies and consulates to contact you and your loved ones in the event of an emergency. This includes situations where your family or friends in the U.S. are having difficulty contacting you with important news.