Keeping yourself safe and out of harm’s way is important for a great study abroad experience.
To decrease your risk of kidnapping, keep these safety tips in mind:
– Avoid areas known to harbor criminal organizations.
– Always stay in well-lit and well-traveled places.
– Do NOT take short cuts through alleys or unsafe areas.
– Always travel in groups and utilize the buddy system.
– If alone, do NOT go anywhere with strangers.
– Maintain situational awareness and be aware of information shared with strangers.
To keep yourself and other safe from sexual assault and harassment, keep these safety tips in mind:
– Educate yourself on dynamics abroad to make safer decisions.
– Be aware of the social norms on personal space, touching, and gender dynamics in your host country, as they may differ from those in the US.
– Educate yourself about resources (ex. emergency resources and host country support) that will be useful to you in the event that you are in a dangerous situation.
– Practice situational awareness and avoid traveling alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.
– Avoid meeting people you do not know in a non-public place or leaving a public place with someone you just recently met.
– Practice bystander intervention. If something does not look right or a travel companion appears at risk, step in.
Personal Safety
Find a safe place, or call someone you trust who can help get you to a safe space. Once you are safe, consider whether you need medical attention and where the best facility is to provide you with care.
Reporting
Think about whether or not you want to report the incident. If you decide reporting is the best decision for you, figure out who is the best source to report to — possibly your university, local officials, or the US Embassy.
Additional Care & Further Actions
If you need someone to speak to following the event, reach out to your university for resources that can help you. Finally, if you have a desire to press charges, talk with local law officials, the US embassy, or your university about what legal measures you can take.
Each country has a unique legal system. A good rule of thumb is, if you wouldn’t do it in front or your professors or parents, then don’t do it. Be respectful of local customs, as you are guest in your host country. Avoid controversial or heated discussions in public places, such as pubs or sporting events, that would draw attention to you and label you as a foreigner.
If you are of legal drinking age in your host country, you may partake in such activities. However, practice safe drinking. Never accept a drink from a stranger and maintain awareness over your drink at all times. Drink in a safe location with a group of trusted individuals.
Drug Use
In terms of drugs, you should only be taking ones that are prescribed to you. If you need typical, over-the-counter medication, make sure you read all labels.
Educate yourself on your university’s drug and alcohol policies as well as local laws.
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